The Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex is a cluster of ancient temples situated on the Hemakuta Hill in Hampi, Karnataka, India. The hill itself is considered one of the most charming hillocks in Hampi, dotted by over fifty structures of different types including temples, mandapas, galleries, and gateways of various sizes .
The name Hemakuta literally translates to "golden hillock" and according to Hindu legend, this is where Lord Shiva married the local girl Pampa and it is said that the skies rained gold (hema) on that occasion.
The whole of the hill was once fortified with tall stone walls, the ruined remains of which can still be seen today. The climb to the top is a fairly easy one, taking about 15 minutes, and the top itself is a flat expanse of rocky sheet with occasional ups and downs. This makes it a popular spot for watching both sunrise and sunsets over Hampi.
There are more than 35 temples on Hemakuta Hill. These temples are built in the pre-Vijayanagara and Vijayanagara periods (9th to 14th century AD). While many of the temples are referred to as Jain temples, many of them are actually dedicated to Lord Shiva. Two of the temples have inscriptions noting their origin.
Here are some of the interesting structures you will find on Hemakuta Hill:
- Virupaksha Temple - This is one of the most photogenic temples in Hampi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex is quite large and includes a number of halls, corridors, and shrines.
- Ganesha Temple - This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and good beginnings.
- Achyutaraya Temple - This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver god in the Hindu triumvirate.
- Surikun Tank - This is a large rectangular tank that was used for storing water. The tank is surrounded by a number of pavilions and mandapas.
- Hazare Rama Temple - This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu. The temple is noted for its intricate carvings.
Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, religion, or architecture. The views from the top of the hill are simply stunning, and the temples themselves are fascinating examples of ancient Indian art and culture.