Hemakuta hills are home to a collection of a large number of shrines that belongs to pre Vijayanagar dynasty times. Once upon a time, these hills were topped with beautiful temples, mandapas, pavilions, gateways, galleries, archways, and fort walls. But, what remains now is only the ruins of the architectural wonder that sustained the attacks of various rulers.
It is a short trek of 15 minutes to climb the hill. You need to take steps carved on a humongous rock, to the north of Virupaksha temple to reach the Hilltop. After reaching the top, flat land stuffed with magnificent monuments welcomes you with open arms.
Never miss those fascinating sunsets and sunrises that will make the whole hill glitter like a bar of gold. Besides this, you can even spot the beauty of Hampi bazaar and Virupaksha temple from the top. If you are a photographer then you would never take your eyes off the lens because there is so much beauty to capture.
Table of Contents
Hemakuta Hills History
You can spot more than 35 temples and 15 other structures on the top of the hill. Most of the structures here date back to 9th to 14th century, which indicated an era before the Vijayanagar empire
The architecture here is quite different from that of Vijayanagar Style. Most of the structures are triple chambered with a pyramid-like roof made of granite over the top. Apart from this, you can witness the Trikuta Chola style of architecture towards the north side of the hill. Where three shrines are built perpendicular to each other facing the common hall in the middle.
More number of decorated temples can be spotted on the northside of the hill when compared to the southside. In fact, most of the temples here are dedicated to Lord Shiva, as it was believed that Shiva had performed penance in this region. Interestingly, there is a main or moola Virupaksha temple with a pool in front, on the top of the hill.
Indian Mythology Related To Hemakuta Hills
Like every other hill which has a story or myth attached to it, even this has one. It is believed that when Lord Shiva was in penance, Kama ( the god of lust ) distracted him and helped the local girl Pampa marry him. And, Lord Shiva got angry by this act of Kama and burnt him using the third eye.
Also, when Shiva agreed to marry Pampa, it is believed that the hills received gold rains. Hence, the name Hemakuta, Hema in Sanskrit means “Gold”.
Hemakuta Hills Additional Information
Location: At the end of Hampi Bazaar there are steps leading to the top of Hill.
Landmark: Near Virupaksha Temple Or 500 m.near Hampi Bus stand.
Timings To Visit: 6 Am to 6 Pm.
Duration: 3 To 4 hours.
Entry Fee: NA.
Photography: Allowed.
Best Time To Visit: October To February,
Even though the hill sits right next to the hotspot Virupaksha temple, it still remains untouched among the masses. Because not many people know about it. So, next time when you are heading to Hampi make sure these hills are on the list.
Also Read:
Comments