Hampi, Karnataka second on NYT's top 52 travel destinations

New York Times has listed Hampi, Karnataka second on its list of 52 places to visit in 2019. Hampi, which was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, is the only Indian destination to feature in the list.

Hampi is located in the central part of the state of Karnataka, in the southern part of India. It is 353 km from Bangalore, and 13 km from Hospet. It is located on top of rugged terrain and is 467 m above sea level. Tungabhadra River flows through Hampi. It has a tropical climate with hot summers (April-June), and cool winters (October-February). It experiences the southwestern monsoon rains from June to August.

Among the attractions of Hampi are beautiful temples, ruins of palaces, remains of aquatic structures, ancient market streets, royal pavilions, bastions, royal platforms, treasury buildings... the list is practically endless. Hampi is a backpacker's paradise, the same way a pilgrim's delight.

The best time to visit Hampi is from October to March. Getting to Hampi isn't so straightforward. The closest train station is in the town of Hospet (Hosapete), half an hour away. Alternately, you can take the bus or drive from Bangalore, a ride that cuts through vineyards, farmlands and beautiful country scenery. Once you do get here, be prepared to walk a lot.

In many ways, Hampi is a reminder of India's glorious legacy as the birthplace of the world's oldest living religion and among the most celebrated early civilizations in the history of the world.