Virupaksha Temple
ವಿರೂಪಾಕ್ಷ ದೇವಾಲಯ
A Shiva temple in Hampi still in active use. Its 50-metre eastern gateway tower is a landmark of the ruins, and worship has continued for a thousand years.
Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Virupaksha, a form of Shiva. Its origins predate the Vijayanagara Empire, and after successive expansions it became the only major temple in Hampi with continuous worship. The eastern gateway tower, about 50 m tall, faces the long street of Hampi Bazaar. The inner courtyard has finely painted ceiling murals, and in one dark chamber a small hole projects an image of the gateway tower onto the wall. Shoes must be removed before entering. Admission is free, though photography may incur a small camera fee. The atmosphere is best during the morning and evening rituals.
Opening hours
About 6:00 AM–1:00 PM, 5:00–9:00 PM
Nearby sights
- Hemakuta Hill Temples
- Sasivekalu & Kadalekalu Ganesha
- Hampi Bazaar
- Krishna Temple, Hampi
- Lakshmi Narasimha Statue & Badavilinga
- Tungabhadra River Coracle Ride
- Matanga Hill
- Achyutaraya Temple