Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site, situated in the beautiful state of Karnataka in India.
Brimming with history and culture, Hampi is known for being a place of strong religious significance. It became the pilgrimage centre for Hinduism and has since developed as a popular tourist destination. And lucky for us, its done this without losing any of its ancient charms.
If you take a look just outside of Hampi, you’ll find it’s also home to stunning natural landscapes. Dotted with rolling hills, granite rocks and boulders. Yes that’s right, boulders! You can’t miss them, they lie all over the place. It’s as if they have been tossed around by unseen hands.
Hampi has an undeniably serene and peaceful ambience ot it. From the rich historical sites to the stability of the hills surrounding it – a strong sense of calm is felt here.
There are a few different areas to choose from when it comes to deciding where to stay in Hampi. Which area is the best totally depends on you and what you’d like to get out of your visit.
If you’ve never been to Hampi before, deciding where to stay can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
I’ve created this guide of the best areas to stay in Hampi and what each has to offer. You’ll find fantastical places to stay and things to do in each area to help you decide which is best for you!
Without further ado, let’s get into it.
Looking for a specific stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Hampi…
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Vijayanagara Home Stay New Hampi | Best Airbnb in Hampi
This family-run Airbnb is a delightful place to stay if you want to relax and have access to some of the most interesting sights Hampi has to offer.
The hosts are super friendly and can offer you some locally brewed tea and coffee, as well as the option for catering for your whole stay to make it as stress-free as possible.
Murali House in Anegundi | Best Hostel in Hampi
If you’re travelling on a budget but still want to get an authentic and exciting experience, look no further than this delightful hostel. It’s relatively small so make sure you book in advance to snap up a room.
Known for its cleanliness and tranquillity, this is the perfect place for you to stay if you’re looking for a chilled out time!
Gopi Guest House | Best Hotel in Hampi
This hotel boasts a roof-top restaurant overlooking temples and the glorious river. There’s free Wi-Fi and each room is spacious and comfortable!
If you’re feeling like you want some luxury, room service is available and there’s a terrace and garden for you to enjoy some chilled out drinks.
Sangapur
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.
Kamalapur
This is the nest neighbourhood 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.
Hampi is a fascinating area abundant in historical significance. There’s so much to explore here! Temples are what characterise this area – even on a short walk, you’ll stumble across an ancient monument or three! As a rural area, you’ll see what many call the “real” India – the gorgeous little tucked away villages and oases for you to discover on your own mini-adventures.
It’s also referred to as the Group of Monuments at Hampi because it is exactly that – there’s murals and landmarks as far as the eye can see! It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which proves just how important this place is. It was also the pilgrimage centre of Hinduism and was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire In the 14th century.
Next to the temples, you can also find trading markets and ruins of public baths where travellers used to stop for rest. The best area to find these is definitely Hampi Ancient Village, which is the best area to stay for your first time here!
Travelling on a budget? Don’t worry – you’ll be catered for as well. Sangapur is just north of Hampi’s centre but has no less of its charm or amusement. There are so many opportunities to go on lovely walks and stumble cross ancient monuments and take in the stunning scenery. More stunning 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!
Hampi is accessible by road and train, and the nearest airport is Jindal Vijaynagar Airport, so if you want to get here from further afield, it’s super easy to do!
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!
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
Top 3 Neighborhoods in Hampi
With so much history, culture and scenery to enjoy, Hampi is one of the best places to stay in India!
#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 in Hampi Ancient Village
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 in Hampi Ancient Village
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 in Hampi Ancient Village
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!
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View on Osprey View on REI#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 in Sangapur
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 in Sangapur
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 in Sangapur
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.
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Grab an eSIM!#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 in Kamalapur
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 in Kamalapur
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 in Kamalapur
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!
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Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For Hampi
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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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.
To recap: Hampi’s most luxurious hotel is Gopi Guest House – the perfect place to relax!
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.
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