Hazara Rama Temple

The basics

Unlike many of the temples in Hampi, the Hazara Rama Temple is decommissioned, with no active worship or idols within its interiors. However, it is a main stop on most Hampi tours and is frequently visited in conjunction with other key archaeological attractions, including the Lotus Mahal, the Elephant Stables, and the Royal Palace. Most full-day and overnight tours of Hampi devote some time to exploring the temple.

Things to know before you go

• The temple is a must-see for those interested in architecture, art, or spirituality.

• The Hazara Rama Temple is not suitable for wheelchair users.

• Public restrooms are available about a 5-minute walk north of the temple.

• Note that there are many monkeys near the temple. Be mindful of your possessions (especially if you have snacks) and keep your distance.

How to get there

The Hazara Rama Temple is located in one of Hampi's main clusters of monuments. It’s about a 45-minute walk from Hampi Bazaar, and getting there by car takes around 10 minutes. A tour that includes transportation is the most convenient way to get there. Alternatively, consider renting a bicycle and pedaling yourself if the weather isn't too hot.

When to get there

As with all the monuments in Hampi, try to visit as early as possible to avoid the heat of the day—and the crowds. Hampi's weather is most favorable for sightseeing from October until March, when temperatures are slightly cooler. The April–June summer season can be oppressively hot, while July–September gets rainy.

Visiting the Lotus Mahal

The Hazara Rama Temple is just a few minutes walk from Hampi’s most popular attraction: the Lotus Mahal. This three-story, lotus-shaped structure features beautifully carved pillars supporting a double roof, all surrounding a shaded, open-area space. The Lotus Mahal is particularly notable for its old-fashioned form of air conditioning, in which water was piped through the beams from a tank on the roof to keep the interiors (relatively) cool.