The ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO world heritage site in central Karnataka, come alive with music and sounds of dance when the State Government holds the Hampi Utsava to recreate the grandeur of the erstwhile Vijayanagara Empire. It is believed that the Utsava is celebrated since the time of the Vijayanagara Empire and hence might be one of the oldest celebrations/festivals in India. Today, the Hampi Utsava also called Vijaya Utsava celebrated over a week that captures the pomp, splendour, and glory of the Vijayanagara Empire. The backdrop of the Utsava is Hampi and her ruins. The festival includes lighting up the prominent monuments in Hampi, Jumbo Saavari (elephant procession), and performances by some of India’s most celebrated singers, dancers, and performers, water sports, food courts, photography competitions, Rangoli/ Mehndi competitions, etc. Hampi Utsava attracts lakhs of visitors from all parts of the world and is one of the most popular celebrations in Karnataka making Hampi one of the top places to visit in Karnataka. At the backdrop of River Tungabhadra, the illuminated ruins of Hampi stand tall igniting a billion sparks during the Hampi Utsava. Hampi Utsava is an ode to the legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire showcasing the rich heritage and culture of the region.

Region : Hampi