189. The Stone Chariot of Hampi

My host state -the incredible Karnataka! It is a blessing to see its beauty, lush green forests infested with amazing density of wildlife, spectacular waterfalls, ancient art and abundant history. I can go on and on ... But, a post would be much appropriate ... How about the world famous Stone Chariot of Hampi.

Hampi is a place where stones speak ... they speak about the past glory of the proud City of Victory ... Vijayanagara ... the tiny village which grew into an empire, more specifically The Hindu Empire. Now in ruins, the city still mocks at its destroyers ...  Even after centuries the ruins help people visualize its past grandeur.

Recent visit to Hampi was just great! Accompanied my niece who is doing a research on Hampi Ruins. Visited all the places bit by bit, with she telling me stories. I felt like the past came alive. I woke up from my dream when a squeeking bat flew right above my head when I entered the dark sanctum of an empty temple. I sat in one of the mantapas resting my back on one of those ornate pillars, the passing by cool wind whispered ... You are in the city of victory ... 

The Stone Chariot stands proudly in the courtyard of incredibly ornate Vijaya Vithala temple. The wheels of this chariot were movable until recently the authorities sealed them to prevent damage by the ignorant tourists.

Tip: The temple is east facing and the chariot is west facing. Make two trips, one early morning for the pictures of the temple. The second trip in the evening for the pictures of the chariot.