Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The ornate
stone chariot
that stands in the courtyard is the temple's showpiece and repres-
ents Vishnu's vehicle with an image of Garuda within. Its wheels were once capable of
turning.
The outer 'musical' pillars reverberate when tapped, which supposedly were designed
to replicate 81 different Indian instruments, but authorities have placed them out of tour-
ists' bounds for fear of further damage, so no more do-re-mi. As well as the main temple,
whose sanctum was illuminated using a design of reflective waters, here you'll find the
marriage hall and prayer hall the structures to the left and right upon entry, respectively.
HISTORIC SITE
Sule Bazaar
Halfway along the path from Hampi Bazaar to the Vittala Temple, a track to the right
leads over the rocks to deserted Sule Bazaar, one of ancient Hampi's principal centres of
commerce and reputedly the red-light district. At the southern end of this area is the atmo-
spheric, deserted Achyutaraya Temple.
Royal Centre
While it can be accessed by a 2km foot trail from the Achyutaraya Temple, the Royal
Centre is best reached via the Hampi-Kamalapuram road. A number of Hampi's major
sites stand here.
carvings and panoramic vistas of the walled complex of ruined temples, stepped tanks and
the King's audience hall. The platform was used as Royal viewing area for the Dasara
festivities, religious ceremonies and processions.
pict scenes from the Ramayana, and polished black granite pillars.
designed pavilion which was supposedly the queen's recreational mansion. It overlooks
domed chambers. There's also a small museum and army barracks within the high-walled
enclosure.
HISTORIC SITE
