The UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Hampi is a tiny little city tucked away in the strikingly beautiful state of Karnataka, India.
Steeped in history yet alive with culture, Hampi is a place of deep religious significance. Once a major pilgrimage centre for Hinduism, it has grown into one of India’s most captivating travel destinations — and somehow, it’s managed to do that without losing its ancient soul.
Step just beyond the ruins and temples and you’ll discover Hampi’s other magic trick: its utterly trippy and surreal natural landscapes. Rolling hills stretch into the distance, while enormous granite rocks and giant boulders litter the land. Scattered so wildly it feels as if some giant hand casually tossed them across the earth.
When it comes to choosing where to stay though, you’ve got a few very different areas to consider. The “best” one really depends on what kind of trip you’re after — whether that’s history, nature, nightlife, or blissful tranquillity.
Below, I’ve broken down the best areas to stay in Hampi, what makes each one special, and the kinds of places to stay and things to do you’ll find there. By the end, you’ll know exactly which area suits your travel style best.
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Hampi Bazaar
If you want to be closer to where a lot of the ancient temple action is, book your stay in Hampi Bazaar to be right in the heart of it. This is perfectly suited for a first-time visit to this beautiful region.
Sanapur
If you want a more rural setting where you can actually relax and take things slower, my top recommendation would be Sanapur. It sits on the north side of the river, but it’s still close to the main area of Hampi.
Kamalapur
This is a good pick if you’re looking for more serious comfort in Hampi, or just want to be a little more outside of the buzz. Perfect if you’re travelling with the family or a partner, for example.
Looking for some digs in Hampi? These are our highest recommendations…
As we said in the intro, Hampi is a fascinating area that just oozes historical significance. It was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire In the 14th century and even today remains an important pilgrimage centre (although it often seems that every other city in India is an important Pilgrimage centre!). Next to the temples, you can also find trading markets and ruins of the public baths where travellers used to stop for rest.
The headline sites are without a doubt the ancient Hindu temples that earned the region its UNESCO Status – even on a short walk, you’ll probably accidentally stumble across an ancient monument or three! As a rural area, you’ll also get to see what many call the “real” India – the gorgeous little tucked away villages and oases for you to discover on your own mini-adventures (rent a bicycle and get lost is my advice).
Note that Hampi is accessible by road and train although you will probably be dropped off in Hospet which is 13km from Hampi proper. You can pick up cheap digs in Hospet but it’s not much fun so we suggest getting a rick shaw or mini bus to take you the rest of the way to Hampi. In case you fancy racking up some airmails the nearest airport is Jindal Vijaynagar Airport.
OK, so in our view the Hampi Ancient Village s the best area to stay for your first time here. In 2020, the government did order that a number of hostels and guesthouses neat the Bazaar be knocked down but there are still plenty of options in and and around the ancient village.
If you’re on a super tight budget, Sangapur is just north of Hampi’s centre but has no less of its charm or amusement. There are plenty of opportunities to go on lovely walks and stumble cross ancient monuments while taking in the stunning scenery. More epic scenery can be found to the south at Kamalapur, which has loads of family-friendly activities to get stuck into whether you’re old or young!
Ready to really dive into Hampi and learn more about this place? Refer to our backpacking Hampi guide to get a head start before starting your trip!
Top 3 Neighborhoods in Hampi
#1 Hampi Ancient Village – Where to Stay in Hampi for the First Time
Hampi is such a historically important place and the best area to stay to fully understand why is Hampi Ancient Village. There’s temples galore and loads of interesting landmarks to investigate and discover!
Fantastic architecture, amazing carvings and beautiful scenery! Hampi Ancient Village is the heart of this ancient and fascinating region.
Archana Guest House River View | Best Luxury Hotel
With a beautiful view of the glorious river, this hotel is the best place to stay for a little more luxury on your break. Private bathrooms, luggage storage and a 24-hour desk will make everything stress-free and convenient for you.
The in-house restaurant serves up all sorts of culinary surprises, such as Indian, Chinese and continental delicacies!
A home away from home | Best Airbnb
Ancient rock structures and paddy fields surround this idyllic stay, which is extremely traditional and the best place to stay in Hampi for authenticity.
The rooms are located around the perimeter of a gorgeous garden and there’s communal tables and chairs for you to at together and get to know the other guests!
Rashmitha Guest House | Best Hotel
This simple yet charming guesthouse is the perfect place to stay in Hampi for your first time. There’s a restaurant, room service and free Wi-Fi – what more could you want?
There is a shared bathroom but en suite rooms are available if you want a little more luxury!
Things to See and Do in Hampi Ancient Village
- At the focal point of Hampi Ancient Village are the Hampi Archaeological Ruins, where you’ll find a fascinating museum and the remains of the grand 14th-century city!
- This area of India is characterised by its temples, so why not head to one right in the centre? Kadalekalu Ganesha is a huge temple with elaborate carvings and sculptures!
- A temple with a bit of a difference and one of Hampi’s most recent excavations is Krishna Bazaar. It has a huge sacred tank of water which you can sit by and take in the breath-taking views surrounding you!
- If you’re into your carvings and ancient architecture then head to Laksmi Narashimha Temple, full of gaudy carvings and amazing pillars!
- If you want to step back in time, then head to the Elephant’s Stables. Literally what it says on the tin, this is where the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire were kept!
#2 Sangapur – Where to Stay in Hampi on a Budget
If you want to see this gorgeous area without having to break the bank, the best place to stay is Sanagpur! On the north wide of the Tungabhadra River, you can relax in the rural landscape whilst still being close to the main area of Hampi.
There’s some amazing opportunities to explore the ancient element of this landscape, while saving some money too!
Waterfall Guesthouse | Best Hostel
This gorgeous guesthouse is set in the traditional setting of paddy fields and stunning countryside. There’s a free rickshaw pick up from Hampi island so you can get here nice and easily! There’s free Wi-Fi, fans in every room and an eclectic menu in the restaurant – what more could you want?
Hampi Island Huts | Best Airbnb
These cute and quirky huts are the best place to stay in Hampi if you want to have a unique experience in traditional accommodation. There’s nothing very fancy about these huts, but you’ll have a quiet, peaceful and ambient space which is great value for money!
Chinnas Camping Area | Best Hotel
Do you fancy getting up close and personal with the amazing nature that surrounds you? Look no further than this Camping Area, found on the banks f the river and with more luxury than you might expect for a campsite.
There’s free Wi-Fi and parking and bed linen and towels are also provided. There’s even a breakfast – what more could you want?
Things to See and Do in Sangapur
- Take a leap back in time if you want to see something truly remarkable! Head out to the Onake Kindi Caves where you’ll find some spectacular paintings!
- For some childish fun, head to Kishkina Water Park. There’s slides, pools and diving boards, perfect to burn some energy!
- The Papiah Tunnel is a fascinating ancient passage which you can partially walk down deep into the earth!
- One of the brightest temples in this area is definitely Sri Rama Temple. It’s covered in beautiful colours and is definitely worth a visit to take some pictures!
- Set beside beautiful farming fields and vast views is the Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple. It is one of the most remote temples in the area, so it’s perfect if you want to take a moment of calm and find some tranquil spaces to relax in.
#3 Kamalapur – Where to Stay in Hampi for Families
This is the best neighborhood near Hampi if you’re travelling with the family- big or small! Whether you’re into wildlife or just fancy getting out and seeing the sights, there’s so much on offer here.
Rivers, lakes and mountains characterise this area, and it’s perfect for children of all ages!
Kstdc Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari | Best Hotel
Just a ten-minute drive from some of Kamalapur’s best attractions is this delightful and affordable hotel. With internet access, a 24 hours front desk and self-parking on-site, it takes care of all your worries so all you have to do is sit back and relax – easy!
Evolve Back Hampi | Best Luxury Hotel
This beautiful hotel is the perfect place to treat your family to a bit of luxury during your visit to Hampi. With a balcony overlooking the river and the scenery, you can enjoy your dinner with a view. There’s also an outdoor pool for you to relax and cool down in after a long day of exploring and having fun!
Vinayaka Homestay | Best Airbnb
This lovely apartment is perfect as a base for your explorations in and around Kamalapur. If you’re looking for something simple and affordable but with everything you could need, this is your best bet.
There’s air conditioning for those warm, muggy days and a TV for you to relax in front of!
Things to See and Do in Kamalapur
- Take the kids to see all the amazing wildlife Hampi has to offer at Atal Bihrai Vajapayee Zoological Park! The best place to see the native species of India!
- Along similar lines is the Daroki Sloth Bear Sanctuary is a wildlife park where you can get up close to the animals whilst also enjoying the fabulous surroundings! They live in a nice spot these bears!
- Queen’s Bath Place is the ruins of a royal bathing pool and chamber! The water is still there so you can fully immerse yourself in this ancient structure.
- If you want to learn the science behind the artifacts and landmarks that surround you, head to the Hampi Archaeological Museum! The best place for the family to learn all about the area!
- If you and the kids fancy a relaxing swim in a natural lake, then why not head to Hallikere? It’s the best place to visit if you want to have a relaxing day with the family and burn a few calories too!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hampi
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hampi
Incredible scenery, astonishing history and a thriving culture – Hampi has so much to offer to travellers of all types! It comes as no surprise that Hampi is the perfect place to stay for people of all ages!
To recap – Hampi Ancient Village is the best place to stay in Hampi for your first time. It’s packed with interesting museums, galleries and ancient landmarks. If you fancy a splurge then check out Hampi’s most luxurious hotel is Gopi Guest House – the perfect place to relax!
Or if you’re travelling on a bit more of a budget, then the best place to stay in Hampi is Murali House in Anegundi – rave reviews and plenty of leftover cash!
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below, Otherwise, enjoy your travels!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Hampi.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in India.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for India.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
