INDIA ~ Virupaksha Temple - Hampi - UNESCO ~

... Nice view of a stunning piece of architecture and a great religious place... Virupaksha temple is the only intact temple in Hampi amongst the surrounding ruins... situated in the heart of Hampi... the most famous ancient temple and still remains an active Hindu worship site dedicated to Lord Shiva.... one of the oldest living temples in India... this temple is a major highlight during the tour of Hampi...  the carvings on the main temple facade and structure are absolutely gorgeous...  the temple will always be crowded by  pilgrims and tourists, as its the only one where prayers are offered... Thanks a lot Thomas Abraham! (ヅ)

Hampi is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka near the city of Hosapete, Hampi's ruins are spread over 4,100 hectares.

The Group of Monuments at Hampi represent the ruins of Vijayanagara, the former capital of the Vijayanagara empire. This was a South Indian empire, dating from 1336 to 1646. The buildings in the city are mostly built in the original native traditions of southern India, associated with the Hindu religion. Some of them show a certain amount of Islamic influence due the interaction with Islamic kingdoms.

Assumed to be built in the 7thC, Virupaksha Temple it is the oldest temple in Hampi and can be viewed from most places near the bazaar area and across the river. It is constructed in Dravidian architecture style.

The Group of Monuments at Hampi are on the UNESCO WHS list since 1986.

Stamp:

Flowers - Orchids
(Issued 08-08-2016)