Mansi Gangar
This year, I decided to shake things up and celebrate my birthday in a way that would be anything but ordinary. Inspired by the enchanted tales of Tenali Rama and the grandeur of the Vijayanagara kingdom, I embarked on a journey that would blend history, legend and breathtaking beauty into one unforgettable adventure.
The excitement kicked off with a train ride from Mumbai to Hospet. There’s something incredibly soothing about the rhythmic clatter of the train, each chug bringing me closer to a new chapter of my birthday celebration. From Hospet, I hopped into an auto that took me through vibrant landscapes to Goan Corner (Zostel Hampi) in Gangavathi. And oh, what a place it was! Nestled among rugged mountains and lush greenery, this charming spot felt like it had been plucked straight out of a fairytale. The mud houses, the peacocks parading around, and the playful dogs, ducks and goats all contributed to an atmosphere that was magical.
My first day was all about soaking up the serenity of Goan Corner. With a heart full of peace, I spent my time just relaxing, playing with the dogs, and taking in the calm surroundings. It was the perfect start to what promised to be an incredible trip.
The real fun began the next day. I set out to explore the iconic Vittala Temple, and wow, it was like stepping into another era. The stone chariot and the musical pillars transported me back to the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. Each step in the Queen’s Bath and Elephant Stable made me feel as if I was walking through the pages of a royal saga, with every stone echoing stories of a bygone era.
But Hampi is so much more than just its famous landmarks. On my birthday, I decided to dive deep into its lesser-known treasures. I visited nearly 20 temples, each one adding a unique flavour to my excursion. The massive Saasivekaalu and Kadalekalu Ganesha temples were awe-inspiring, while the intricately carved Hazara Rama Temple left me speechless. And adding a special touch to my day was the Badavilinga Temple, with its mystical aura, and the Jain temple, bathed in a quiet beauty.
One of the highlights was the Lotus Mahal, with its stunning Indo-Islamic architecture. Then there was Anegundi, which is believed to be the mythical Kishkindha. The spiritual and historical depth of this place was simply mesmerising. From the tranquil Pampa Sarovar to the intriguing caves—those of Bali and Sugriva, and the ancient Jain caves—every corner seemed to hold a story waiting to be discovered. And visiting the Samadhi of Krishna Deva Raya was a profound experience, as if I was connecting directly with the legends of the past.
The Tungabhadra River, flowing gracefully through Hampi, was the perfect backdrop for my contemplations. I took a thrilling coracle ride, which felt like a timeless communion with the river’s eternal flow. Meanwhile, the Hampi Archaeological Museum in Kamalapura was like a treasure chest of artifacts, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history.
Of course, no adventure is complete without a bit of indulgence. I stumbled upon Monkey Paradise, a café with delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere; it proved to be a delightful treat. And as the day came to a close, watching the sunset from Hemakuta Hill was nothing short of stunning. The sky transformed into a canvas of golden and crimson hues, casting a beautiful glow over the ancient ruins.
Celebrating my birthday in Hampi and Anegundi turned out to be more than just a trip; it was a journey through a land where history, legend and beauty come together perfectly. Each temple, ruin and sunset point told its own tale, making it an experience I’ll treasure forever. This adventure, inspired by the tales of Tenali Rama, will always hold a special place in my heart.
If you’re planning to visit Hampi and Anegundi, here is the perfect itinerary:
Day 1—Enjoy leisure time at Zostel Hampi with breathtaking views of the verdant surrounds, the hills, and a beautiful sunset
Day 2—Embark on a temple run. Book an auto for the day and explore iconic sites like Vittala Temple, Saasivekaalu and Kadalekalu Ganesha temples, Hazara Rama Temple, the Queen’s Bath, and the famous Narasimha statue
Day 3—Immerse yourself in a nature trail with a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River, visit the Samadhi of Krishna Deva Raya, and explore the ancient caves of Anegundi
Day 4—Visit Hampi market, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the hippie cafés, and conclude your journey with a stunning sunset at Matanga Hill
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