In Hampi, Karnataka, Vijaya Vitthala Temple, Hampi is dedicated to Lord Vitthala (a form of Vishnu/Krishna). It is also known as Vittala Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple.
The most iconic structure of Hampi and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site; its stone chariot appears on the Indian ₹50 currency note, and its musical pillars are a marvel of Vijayanagara craftsmanship. It is now a protected monument rather than an active worship shrine. Built in the 15th century under Devaraya II and embellished by Krishnadevaraya, the Vitthala Temple is the most celebrated monument at Hampi.
Karnataka carries a distinct temple identity of its own: Vijayanagara grandeur at Hampi, Hoysala artistry at Belur, and living coastal shrines at Udupi, Kukke and Kollur, Karnataka is a museum of South Indian temple genius.
Darshan hours and daily worship
| Session | Timing (as published) |
|---|---|
| Morning | 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Evening | Closes by 5:00 PM (single daytime window) |
Open all days of the week, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Poojas and daily rituals
No regular worship, the temple functions as an archaeological/heritage monument
Festivals and special-day timings
Regular darshan hours are usually extended, or set aside entirely, on these dates.
| Festival | Period | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Hampi Utsav | Usually January/November (varies) | State cultural festival with events across the Hampi monuments including Vitthala |
| Purandaradasa Aradhana | January/February | Music festival honouring the composer Purandaradasa, associated with Hampi |
History and architecture
Architecture
The pinnacle of Vijayanagara temple architecture, famous for the iconic stone chariot in the courtyard and the 56 'SaReGaMa' musical pillars of the Ranga Mantapa that produce musical notes when tapped
History
Built in the 15th century under Devaraya II and embellished by Krishnadevaraya, the Vitthala Temple is the most celebrated monument at Hampi. Its stone chariot, inspired by the Konark Sun Temple, is one of only three stone chariots in India (the others at Konark and Mahabalipuram).
Planning your visit
How to reach
About 2 km beyond the main road at Hampi (private vehicles stop at the main road; battery-operated shuttles ply to the site); nearest railway station Hospet (about 13 km); nearest airport Hubli (about 160 km).
Vijaya Vitthala Temple, Hampi in photographs
3 freely-licensed photographs of this temple, from Wikimedia Commons. Each is credited to its photographer.


Where this information comes from
Confidence: High. History, architecture, timings and entry fee consistently reported (Apify returned no page; gathered via web search)
