Virupaksha Temple is a working Hindu temple in Hampi, Karnataka, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Pampadevi. Its nine-storied gopuram rises above the historic surroundings, and Hampi Bazaar extends along the street nearby.
- Location: Hampi, Vijayanagara district, Karnataka, India
- From a Hampi hotel: about 0.2 km from a hotel in Hampi
- Published hours: Open daily
- Nearby: Hampi Bazaar, also called Virupaksha Bazaar
Temple location and historic setting
Virupaksha Temple stands in Hampi, where parts of the temple predate the Vijayanagara Empire. It is the only temple in Hampi still used for worship.
The nine-storied gopuram towers over other structures in Hampi and gives the temple a distinctive place in the historic landscape. Inside, the Ranga Mantapa ceiling is painted with scenes from epics and Puranas.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Pampadevi, connecting its religious role with the city’s long history. For context on other sites in the historic area, read the Group of Monuments at Hampi visitor guide.
Visitor etiquette and temple access
Virupaksha Temple remains an active place of worship, so approach it as a religious site as well as a historic landmark.
Follow instructions provided at the temple when entering or taking photographs, and check locally about access arrangements.
Check timings, ceremonies and festival dates
Published opening hours for Virupaksha Temple differ, so confirm the schedule locally before planning your visit.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 6:00–13:00 and 17:00–21:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Published schedules place the morning opening between 06:00 and 12:00–13:00, and the evening opening between 16:30–17:00 and 21:00. Check the official site before you go, and confirm locally which hours apply.
The annual Virupaksha Temple chariot festival is described as a January–February event by Karnataka Tourism, while Incredible India places it in February. Treat that as a general seasonal pattern, not a date for a particular edition; confirm festival arrangements locally if your visit is timed around it.
Combine the temple with Hampi Bazaar
Hampi Bazaar runs for over one kilometre from near Matanga Hill to its foothill, making it a natural nearby place to include alongside the temple. The viewpoints around Matanga Hill add another point of interest in the same area.
Also called Virupaksha Bazaar, the historic street follows the landscape below Matanga Hill. Its listed hours are 06:00–23:00; confirm locally if timing matters to your plans.
If you are fitting the temple and bazaar into a wider visit, a one-day Hampi itinerary can help you place them alongside other sights.
FAQs
Who is Virupaksha Temple dedicated to?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Pampadevi.
Is Virupaksha Temple still used for worship?
Yes. It is the only temple in Hampi that is still used for worship.
When is the Virupaksha Temple chariot festival?
Sources describe the annual festival as taking place in January–February or in February. Confirm the dates and public-access arrangements locally.
What is Hampi Bazaar also called?
Hampi Bazaar is also known as Virupaksha Bazaar.