All You Need To Know About Virupaksha Temple In Hampi, A Must Visit Spiritual Destination

The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a prominent landmark in the ancient city of Hampi in Karnataka. This temple is not only a religious site but also a historical and architectural marvel, attracting tourists from all over the world. As part of the Hampi Group of Monuments, it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as well. The temple is dedicated to Sri Virupaksha, a form of Shiva. The temple complex also houses shrines of Bhuvaneshwari and Vidyaranya. So here is everything that you might want to know about this beautiful temple.

Architecture Of Virupaksha Temple

The Virupaksha temple is built in the South Indian temple architecture, also called the Dravida Style. The compound of Virupaksha Temple is encircled by three gopuras or towers. Constructed in the 15th century, this impressive temple's main tower is 50m tall and has nine floors. The main entrance to Virupaksha Temple is formed by the eastern tower. Several intricately crafted paintings on every story of the eastern tower showcase hundreds of Hindu gods and goddesses. (as per Karnataka Tourism)

The use of mathematical ideas in the design and construction of the Virupaksha temple at Hampi is among its most interesting elements that only a few people know. The idea of fractals is shown by the construction's repeated patterns and shapes. The design of the temple is triangular.

History Of Virupaksha Temple

The Virupaksha temple, Hampi is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built by Lakkan Dandesha, a Nayaka (chieftain) under the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire's Deva Raya II, also called Prauda Deva Raya. It is also referred to as the Pampapathi temple and is one of the few surviving buildings among the Hampi ruins. It is one of the oldest temples in Hampi and is visited by pilgrims and tourists every year.

The temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century by the Chalukya dynasty, and it has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries. At the beginning of the 19th century, major repair and restoration work was done, including the overall fixing of the east and north Gopura's broken towers.

Festivals Celebrated In Virupaksha Temple

The temple celebrates the betrothal and marriage festivities of Virupaksha and Pampa in December. Every year, this temple also hosts the annual Chariot Festival in February. Another festival is the Phala Puja Festival, which is the engagement ceremony of Shiva and Parvati that is celebrated with lots of enthusiasm. Other than these Maha Shivaratri and Diwali are other big festivals celebrated in this temple.

Virupaksha Temple Entry Fee And Timings

There is no entry fee in Virupaksha Temple and ₹50 is charged for a still camera (as per Hampi Tourism). Virupaksha Temple is open on all seven days, morning time is 6:00 am to 1:00 pm and evening time is 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.

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Popular Tourist Attractions Near Virupaksha Temple

Some of the popular tourist attractions near Virupaksha Temple (Top Places To Visit In Karnataka) that are a must-visit with your family and friends include Matanga Hill, Achyutaraya Temple, Hampi Coracle Ride, Lotus Mahal, and Hampi Bazaar. (as per Tripadvisor)

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How To Reach Virupaksha Temple

One can easily reach Virupaksha Temple by road, air, and railways. Hampi, Karnataka has a good transportation network. If you are travelling by train then the nearest railway station to Virupaksha temple, Hampi is Hosapete. If you are planning to travel by plane then the nearest airport to Virupaksha temple, Hampi is Vidyanagar airport. And if you are planning to reach here by road then the Hampi bus stand is directly connected by bus with major cities so you can travel easily.

The Virupaksha Temple is a significant religious, historical, and cultural site in Hampi, Karnataka. Its architectural beauty, rich history, and religious significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian heritage and culture.

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