A Warm Welcome In Hampi

Over the span of two days, we explored the ruins both by foot and by bicycle. It was a surprise to discover that Hampi continues to be an important religious centre and that Indian tourist, pilgrims and rural inhabitants (from surrounding villages) all flock to Hampi to pay homage to these spectacular ruins.

The Virupaksha Temple, which lies just outside of the town, is said to be the finest example of Vijayanagar Architecture. The intricate details, such as the finely carved Hindu deities, which cover the entire structure’s edifice are truly remarkable.

On our first full day in Hampi, Shawn and I explored the ruins that lay just outside the town by foot. After hours roaming about in the scorching sun, we sat down in the shade of a large Ganesha Temple. I was trying to ignore the blatant stares from the group of men nearby (one of them actually did a 180 so he could continue ogling) so I pointedly avoided eye contact.

As I was looking around, I noticed that in the shade of the ruins opposite to us was a large group of people having a communal lunch. One of them gestured at me, but I was unable to discern the meaning. Shawn glanced over as they gestured again and we discerned that they wanted us to come over and join them. Somewhat hesitantly, we made our way over to them. They were friendly and inquisitive and didn’t speak a word of english.

We ended up joining them for lunch and were force-fed a large quantity of homemade food! Communication was difficult, but through gestures, sound effects and laughter we coped. Shawn and I deduced that they were farm workers, possibly from a nearby town, on a pilgrimage to the temple. It was an unexpected and unofficial welcome from the warm people of this area!!

Hampi was wonderful and I could have spent many more days relaxing at our hotel’s scenic rooftop café or roaming the small maze of little streets. I would definitely come back here. On top of all there is to see here, the friendliness of the people is also a huge draw.