CHAPTER - IV

HISTORICAL PROFILE OF HAMPI, UNESCO 8b KSTDC

A.HISTORICAL PROFILE OF HAMPI

INTRODUCTION
In creating Hampi, Nature was at its peculiar best. The men of
this land were not far behind either. The symphony of Hampi is
gripping. Hampi rocks, literarily! Gigantic rocks stand one over other,
in a dangerously delicate equilibrium, as if a push with your little
finger is all that is requited to flatten it all in one go. Well, they have
been standing like that for tens of thousands of years if not millions.

The concoction of what Hampi is made of is both intoxicating

and mesmerizing. Pebble like boulder heaps make a chain of tall hills.
The flat valleys among the hills are filled with expansive swatches of
emerald paddy fields, heaving banana plantations. Through the thick
of these fields and the ridge of the foothills, countless narrow trails
snaking its way to unknown designations. On the rocks, among the
barren planes and in the midst of the green fields are the man made
monuments hundreds of them. In any direction you turn, you would
spot a temple there, a pavilion here, an archway around the comer, a
glimpse of a fort over the hill, tower of a temple in the horizon, a
carving on the rock floor next to you.... There is at least on thing in
common. They all made of the rocks and at frozen in time. Together
they shape the vocabulary of Hampi’s story. A compelling story of how
a tiny hamlet had grown into the sprawling medieval metropolis, the
capital of the grand empire, Vijayanagara. Also it tells how they ruled
the whole of south India from its eastern seashores to the west.
Finally, at its imperial climax fallen from the crest, and gone back to
where it all began - a cluster of humble villages.

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 The far end of Hampi’s history somehow on to the mythology.
The border hides mischievously somewhere in between. It’s almost
impossible to tell where Vijayanagara’s history ends and its myths
start. The mythical monkey kingdom of Kishkinda makes the primary
layers of Hampi’s history or mythology, whichever suits best. The
landscape and locations explained in the Hindu epic poem of
Ramayana perfectly matches with Hampi’s geography. Hundreds of
langurs jump around, with athletic agility and precision, making it
emphatic who still rule these hills. When the enterprise of two warrior
brothers and the eccentricity of the Nature united, the stage was set
for the melodrama of the Vijayanagara Empire.

In present day Hampi, among the fabulous array of monuments,

you witness a weird combination of paradoxes. A cluster of humble
villages sharing the cityscape of an empty ancient metropolis. A
nursery school works in a medieval jewel market where once gold and
diamonds weighed and sold in heaps; cattle herds laze about palace
coplexes that was one the epicenter of imperial power; royal streets
once thronged by royals and nobles from far places made into thick
and lush banana plantations, villagers live in centuries of royal
pavilions complete with massive ornate pillars, bamboo wick coracles
are used to cross the river the same way it was seven centuries
back.......The irony is that it all sit comfortably as if they are all made
to fit each other. Hampi is an enormous open museum back in time
with occasional remainders that distracts you to the present.

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 Soak in the sounds and mystics of Hinduism, scale the elephant
sized boulders, explore and get lost in the vast expanse of ruins,
astonish at the beauty of the majestic temples, laze around the paddy
fields and watch the village life go by, sit on a rock and watch the river
and the life around it moves, sit alone under one of the medieval
structures among the hill, Hampi has generous options for you to pick
and chose.
Hampi is one of the few places on earth where the past gloiy of
an ancient empire is so open and close for you. You can touch and
feel the medieval splendor in its raw form. If stones can speak words,
Hampi is an eloquent epic created of stones. The abundance of it can
virtually wear you out.
Hampi still maintains its earthy feel, unmindful of its world
heritages states conferred by UNESCO (United Nations Educational
Scientific and Cultural Organization). Being a village, a visit at Hampi
is unimaginably light on you wallet. Sprawling over huge territory
(about 25 sq. kilometers), you explore Hampi by foot, bicycle, scooter,
taxe, and horse cart - most probably an apt combination of the above
all. Numerous crisscrossing trails wind through a plethora of ruined
structures and monuments. Among them are temples, palace
compounds, tombs, tanks, pavilions, aquatic artifacts, museums,
towers and many more. As a norm, serious visitors in Hampi stay for
many days at this site.
After a few days of stay at Hampi, when it’s time to leave, the
reality slowly sinks in. That how little you have experienced of it all,
that all of what appeared before of you like in magic has vanished.
Also you strat realize that so far what you’ve seen and experienced is
only the tip of the iceberg, and vastness of Hampi lies ahead
unexplained.

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 It all started.in a small way. Two local warrior brothers Hakka
and Bukka were captured as prisoners by Tuglak when he attacked
the Chalukya Kingdom of Kampili (about 25 km from the present day
Hampi). The Sultan was impressed by the conduct of the two. Leter
when the southern provinces started the rebellions, the sultan sent
these two to pacify the region. They did pacify the local chieftains.
But what happened was the beginning of a large empire with Hakka 85

Bukka as the founders!

They established their capital at Anegundi near Hampi. Later
the Capital was shifted to Hampi (1336AD) and the empire grew from
strength to strength. Vijayanagar Empire (City of Victory) was born
encompassing the whole of southern peninsula, stretching from the
Arabian sea to the Bay of Bengal. The glory has come to an abrupt
end two centuries later when the Vijayanagar commander Rama Raya
was defeated by a confederation of Muslim Kings. The capital city was
ransacked. After this fateful battle the capital was shifted from
Hampi, but the Empire never recovered. Slowly the kingdoms started
disintegrating. Abdul Razaq, a Muslim envoy, who visited Hampi in
its glorious past wrote “Vijayanagara is such that the pupil of the eye
has never seen a place like it.....”
LOCATION OF HAMBI
Hampi is located in the central part of the southern state of
Karnataka, Currently the living Hampi is a tiny town with a number
of small agricultural villages dotted around the ruins. Hospet, a city
about 15 km from Hampi, is the nearest railway station and bus
station that offers connectivity to the other main cities of south India.

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 The lodgings are mostly located in this area (almost all are at
walk able distance). People would approach you offering lodging. You
may go with them, or chose to neglect. Agree for the deal after you
have seen the room and other facilities. Rents range anything from
Rs. 150 to say Rs. 500. Season has a 30 to 100% premium. Some of
them are lodges; some are just regular houses with few rooms offered
for the tourists. Do not expect any luxury or great food. Almost all
are peaceful, basic facilities run by the local people.
ITINERARY
More commonly the whole of Hampi is divided into two parts.
The Sacred Center and Royal Center. Theses clusters are about 3
kilometers apart. As the name indicates the Scared centre has a large
number of religious sites; and the palaces and associated royalty
buildings are located at the Royal area. A tourist needs at least 3 days
to have a decent tour of the whole of Hampi.
FACILITIES IN HAMPI
There are some travel agents who do the booking services in
Hampi. But this is not the right hub for doing your forward journey
planning. Go to Hospet for major bookings. The Hospet Railway
station has the computerized reservation terminal. Also the KSRTC
(State run buses) offer bus reservation facilities. There are numerous
travel agents at Hospet.
Hampi is in the list of dangerous place category. But the
spooky look of its geography is a bit scary till you get used to it.
Loneliness is the hallmark of Hampi. All the regular cautions you
take in a tourist place would put you at ease. There have been some
incidents of purse snatching etc in the past but I feel there fears nee
not have to override your curiosity to move around freely. Some of the
rocks under water are extremely slippery and you may not get a firm
grip if you are standing on them. Particularly avoid (even if you know
swimming) the areas where swirl currents are present. Rainy season
is especially dangerous.

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 They are a bit risky if you are tiying to climb through the less
trodden paths. Some are huge and steep. Some of the climbs go
dangerously close through the edges of steeps cliffs. Be extremely
careful at these areas. Always see that someone is at the vicinity, it in
case some help is requited. The stepped ones are highly advisable.
Hampi is a hot expanse. There are no big shelters amid the vast area
of ruins except the trees and the ruined buildings itself. Even in the
colder seasons, noontime can be a bit hotter to make you tiered.
Carry water bottle and a hat or an umbrella. Wear (preferably) lose
thin light colored cloths covering limbs. Though the open areas are
hot, the inside of the temples etc can be refreshingly cool. Take
enough rest at one spot before heading to the next. Hampi has its
share of the herby sellers and the likes.

IMPORTANT SITES TO VISIT IN HAMPI

Virupaxa Temple

This is the oldest temple in Hampi. Virupaxa means the one

with oblique eye. This refers to Lord Shiva as he has three eyes. Lord
Shiva is the principle deity of this temple. It’s an interesting fact that
this temple is one of the few places in the site, which is highly sought
after by both the devotees and tourists alike. That makes this a bit
crowded place. It has been estimated that this temple has been
functioning ever since 7th century AD uninterruptedly. That makes
this one of the oldest functioning temples in India.
The temple is a sprawling complex with many antechambers,
halls, flag post, lamp posts, towers gateways and many shrines. You
can witness the daily temple rituals and ceremonies in the mornings
and evenings. Usually the sanctum is closed in the noon. So moving
inside may not be possible at that point of time. The temple is east
facing and has mainly two large courtyards. This courtyard mainly

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houses a pillared hall called 100 - column hall at the comer. Just
next to your left immediately after you have entered, you can see the
triple headed Nandi, something unique. On entering the second tower
(gopura) on your left side you would see the temples important
inmate, the little naughty elephant. Give a one rupee coin ( the
elephant will take it from you with its trunk) and you can get a
smooch on head treated as blessing. Further westward you would see
the main hall with an extravaganza of carvings and ceiling paintings
and pillars. Further west is the sanctum sanctorum of Lord virupaxa.
Next to it there are many shrines devoted to Godess Pampa,
Bhuvaneswari, 9 planets ( Nava Grahas) etc. There are pillared halls
around this area. A couple of underground shrines too can be found.
VIRUPAXA BAZAAR / HAMPI BAZAAR
Located at the front of the Virupaxa temple, this wide street
with shops of the houses of the then elites, ends near the monolithic
Nandi (bull) at the foothill of the Matanga Hill. The street is walk able
and about less that a kilometer long. Motors vehicles (like cars, buses
etc) are not allowed into this area. The mins of the then ‘Super
Market’ are now being occupied by the villagers as their homes. Little
they know that where they are living now was the houses of milliners
about five centuries back.
KONDARAMA TEMPLE
This is a functioning temple with religious importance. This is
the place where Rama killed Vali and crowned Sugreeva, and hence
the name (means crowned Rama). The temple has a Ghat (religious
bathing spot) with stepped hall adjacent to it. This temple is
somewhat at the foot hell of Mathanga Hill ( Sun set view from this hill
top is fantastic) facing the Tungabhadra river. You can reach here
only by walking along the banks of the river. Also it’s possible to bring
your bicycle ( a little bit difficult though) along so that you can further
continue ride when the track soon became bicycle able.

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YENTRODHARAKA ANJANEYA TEMPLE
This is located behind but a bit uphill of the Kondarama
Temple. Some steps and a paved rocky path would lead you to this
temple. It would take about 15 minutes for you to reach from the
Knodarama temple to Yentrodharaka Anjaneya temple. Again this a
functioning temple of Anjaneya ( Hanuman, the monkey God).
Hanuman is sitting a peculiar posture with a Yendra’ (amulet or
charm gadget) around him. Hampi has special importance for the
worshipers of Hanuman, as mythical Kishkinda, the monkey kingdom
was located here. You can see plenty of motifs and carvings of
Hanuman all around the sites. Some are brilliantly colorful.
HEMAKUTA HILL
Not one of the tallest hills in Hampi. But this hill offers a
splendid view of the sprawling ruins site. Located at the south of
Virupaxa temple. This hill is sprinkled generously with a large
number of temples and arch ways and halls. The whole of the hill is
fortified with tall wide stone walls. The ruins of which can be still be
seen. Once you have reached (about V2 hour climb) the top, it’s
almost a flat expanse with occasional ups and downs. One of the best
places in Hampi to see the sunrise and sunset. Never miss a sun rise
or set in Hampi (any one of the many suggest places are ok). Fibulas
and romantic. How peacefully the sun says goodbye to the rocky
expanse and sink into the horizon.
KADALE KALU GANESHA
Means Gram seed Ganesha ! The shape of the Ganesha statue is
in the form of a gram seed. It’s located at the base of the Hemakuta
hill, away from the Jain temples. This is a 5 meter tall monolithic
statue installed in an inner sanctum. The pillered hall infront is great
with special carvings on.

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SASIVE KALU GANESHA
Means mustard seed Ganesha, since this Ganesha is in the
shape of mustard seed! Located very close to the Kadale Kalu
Ganesha. Ganapathi (Ganesh / Vinayaka) is notorious for his food
habit. One day he ate so much that his tummy almost busted. He
just caught a snake and tied around his tummy as a belt to save his
tummy.
UGRA NARASIMHA / LAXMI NARASIMHA
This is the iconic statue of Hampi. Ugra Narasimha means
Narasimha (the half man - half lion 4th incarnation of Lord Vishnu)
Narasimha in his terrifying posture. The eyes and the facial
expression are the basis for this assumption. But another section
believes that this is Laxmi Narasimha, means Narasimhia with his
consort Laxmi on his lap. This is the largest statue in Hampi. The
Narasimha is sitting on the coil of a giant seven headed snake. The
heads of the snake is acting as the hood. But this stature has been
damaged seriously during raid by the rival kings. The Laxmi statue
on his lap is missing. But the Goddesses’s hand is visible at his back
in the embracing posture. This is the basis to believe that this is
Laxmi Narasimha rather than Ugra Narasimha.
BADAVA LINGA
This linga is again the largest monolithic linga in Hampi.
Located next to the Narasimha statue. Legend has it that this was
commissioned by a peasant woman and hence the name. The
sanctum in which the linga is installed is always filled with water an a
water channel is made to run through it. Hindu mythology has it that
Lord Shiva kept his secret (river Ganga) in his hair as Parvathi being
his ‘actual’ wife! Hence in all the Shiva temples you can see a water
drip made to fall on the Shiva linga, to keep him drenched! Both
Narasimha & Badva Linga can be seen in about V2 hour.

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GANAGITTI TEMPLE
This is a Jain Temple complex you would find on the right side
on the way towards Kampily, about one kilometer from Kamalapura.
The main road just runs adjacent to this temple compound. Ganagitti
Temple means the Oil women Temple! The reason for the curious
name is unknown. There is the main temple and a small shrine
adjacent to it. In front of the main temple is the Stumbha (lamp post)
with inscription on it. That says the temple was built in AD 1386.
This is a typical example of the early Vijayanagara architecture. The
temple was commissioned by Irugua, the commander in chief of
emperor Harihara II.
BHIMA’S GATE
This is one of the many gateways to the walled city. The gate (a
huge arch) is interesting with its construction and the carvings on it.
The gate it’s name from the legendary Bhima of the Hindu epic
Mahabaratha. A figure of Bhima, one of the five brothers - the
pandavas, is carved on the gate. Probably this is the reason for the
name of the gate. Also there are carvings of Draupadi (Pandava’s wife)
tying her hair. Also Kichaka vada (killing of Kechaka) who tried to
molest Draupathi too is depicted here. Draupathi took the vow that
she would not tie her hair unless it’s washed with Keechaka’s blood.
Bhima eventually killed Keechaka and tied Draupath’s hair. Another
interesting feature of the gate is its smart design. You cannot see
trough the arch of the gate. That is immediately after the entrance
strands a huge wall. You’ve to take a deviation and turn around to
actually cross the gate. In other words this offers some blind spot for
the invading army.
ACHYUTARAYA TEMPLE OR TIRUVENGALANATHA TEMPLE
A Sprawling temple complex with extremely charming carvings.
The temple was built by Salakaraju Tirumaladeva, the chief officer of
king Achyutaraya. Surprisingly the temple took its name from one of
these than the deity installed in it, Lord Tiruvengalanatha or
Venkateshwara.

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THE KING’S BALANCE
This 5 - meter or so tall ‘balance’ is located near (southwest of)
the Vittla temple. The king weigh himself with gold uses this balance,
gems, silver, precious stones etc are distributed to the peasants. It’s
believed that this had been done during the special ceremony seasons
like solar or lunar eclipses.
ANEGONDI
Anegondi itself was a capital city. This tiny kingdom was that
eventually expanded into the Vijayanagar Empire covering the whole
of south India. Currently Anegondi is sleepy village with a principally
farming community inhibiting it. This is located at the opposite bank
of the river. The easiest way to reach Anegondi from Hampi is by
crossing the river by the coracles. There are many attractions though
not a mind - blowing place like Hampi. Anegondi has a big fort
encircling it. Many parts of it is ruins, nevertheless the remains are
interesting. Also there are for gates. The ambient of Anegondi is
refreshing for the ones who like a peaceful place to do sightseeing at
their own pace. Other attractions include Anjenayadri (the hill top
Hanuman Temple), Panpa sarovar ( A tiny shrine and a sacred tank),
Sagan Mahal (a small old palace building), Rishimukh Hill ( A
fantastic place for who are into spirituality like chanting Vedas etc), A
raided stone bridge crossing the river, fuehrer up caves with
prehistoric cave paintings a number of small and big temples.
ANJEYANADRI HILL
This is somewhere in the center of Anegondi area. At the top of
the hill is the temple dedicated for Hanuman. You can easily spot this
hill as the temple is whitewashed and a white trail of steps leading all
the way to the top. The temple is of high importance to the
worshipers of Ram (and Hanuman). Surprisingly the Ramayana recite
here inside the temple is in Hindi! Those understand Hindi and in
interested in Ramayana, listening to this is a feast. The pundit (an old
man with white beard) is gifted with the expression to tell the story.
There won’t be much of people if it is not any special if it is not any
special day.

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 The temple (almost looks like an old house) is always kept
closed (to prevent the cheeky monkeys enter inside!). All are allowed
inside (someone (foreign tourist) have asked me if they can enter as it
looked like a very private temple with religious tone). The statue of
Hanuman is carved on the rock. Also is the small shrine for Rama
and his consort Sita inside the temple. The view from the hilltop is
marvelous. Patches of paddy fields, Coconut tree plantations and the
whole of the ruins sites is visible stretching into the horizon. Looking
at the ruins from here you would know the reason why they chose this
place as their capital. All around in the horizons are the rugged rocky
mountains and at one side in the mighty Tungabadhra river. It was a
naturally secluded strategically important location for a capital city.
AKKA TANGI GUNDU
These are two huge stone leaning against each other. You can
find them on the left side of the road when you travel from the
underground temple towards Hampi bus station. Akka tangi Gundu
means sister stones. Legend has it that they were two sisters and the
became stone as accurse when they ridiculed the place!
THE UNDERGROUND TEMPLE
For some curious reasons, this temple dedicated for Lord Shiva
has been built a bit below the ground level. Also since this is below
the ground level, almost all the time the sanctum sanatorium is under
water. A water cannel system too is visible around the main temple.
But the canal is dry and you can walk down almost till the point
where it’s impossible to go further. There is a small temple for Shiva’s
consort too near the mail shrine. Also is the Kalyanamandapa
(marriage hall) is great. It has been told that this is one of the oldest
temples in Hampi. There is a beautiful lawn around the temple.

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QUEEN’S BATH
This is the first thing you would see when you enter into the
Royal center from the Kamalapura - Hampi main road. A small wide
but un topped mud road starts from the main road. When you take
the right turn into this road, the first thing you see on the right side is
this building. It’s a bit un assuming no decorated rectangular
building from out side. But if you get inside, the story is different. The
whole building is made with a veranda around inside and a big open
pond at the middle of the building. Into the pond are many decorated
aqueducts pointing into the pond and balconies. It’s been believed
that water in the tank has been filled with fragrance flowers and
perfumes.
LOTUS MAHAL
This is a pleasant deviation from the typical architecture you
see in Hampi. The exact function of this is not surely known. Most
probably this is a socializing area for the women folks in the royal
family. This is located inside the Zenana enclosure. This enclosure is
big campus within which a number of royal (mostly palaces and the
likes) are located. Unlike the other major structures in Hampi, this is
made out of lime mortar and brick made structure. The shape of the
structure is what brought it the name. The archways are the balcony
with the domed construction resembles a half opened lotus bud.
SARASWATHI TEMPLE
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, the goddess of
learning. Located somewhat near to the Octagonal bath. A few steps
have to be climbed to reach the top of the platform. Inside the temple
is practically empty. This is a nice vantage point to get a view of the
planes in this area. There are a few interesting carvings inside too. A
part of the temple is now reconstructed. It’s cool to visit inside.

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MAHANAVAMI DIBBA
This is tke tallest structure in this (royal enclosure) area. In

fact this is only the platform of the building and the super structure
either has vanished or temporary in nature. From a distance this
looks just like an elevated square platform. As you go close, the
details emerge. This is made as a sprawling square structure in three
layers. On the wall are dexterously carved sculptures and
ornamentations depicting any thing from the royal ceremony to the
city life to the erstwhile foreign visitors to the kingdom.
The king Krishnadevaraya constructed this in commemoration
with the victory over Udayagiri ( now in Orissa). The kind used this
platform to watch the army march pasts, war games, aquatic sports,
animal show, musical performances and also the most important
Navarathri celebrations.
MINT
The royals of Vijayanagara had many mints in the empire. The
main one was located in Hampi. The ruins of the mint in Hampi can
be seen inside the walled enclosure west of the royal enclosure.
Vijayanagar had an astonishing array of coinage in Gold, silver and
copper. Most of them spotted the images of gods, animals, birds etc.,
Also special coins were made in commemorations with occasions like
triumphs over other kingdoms. The coin with baby Krishna’s image is
an example ( made as a mark to celebrate the conquest of Udaygiri by
king Krishnadevaraya). In most of the coins the reverse side is
inscribed with the king’s name who ordered to mint the coin.
ELEPHANT STABLE
This is located at the east of the Zenana enclosure. A long
structure with ‘parking slots’ for the royal elephants. There are 11
domed tall chambers. The center one is specially decorated and big.
Probably the musicians and the associated band troupes had been
using this during ceremonies involving elephant processions. The
metal hooks (used to tie the elephants) on the inside roof can be seen.
At the rear of each hall are small manhole type openings for the
manouts to enter the elephant compartments.

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THE GUARD’S QUARTERS
The long rectangular building is located at the north side of the
elephant stables. The building has a big open hall inside and multiple
arches and parapets around it. The ceremonial guards of the royalty
used this building. A garden with lawn is made at the area forming
the common courtyard of the elephant stable and the guard’s
quarters.

YEDURU BASAVANNA
This is a monolithic Nandi or Bull statue. The location of the
statue probably marks the one end of the Virupaxa Bazar. That is the
statue is located at the end of the street where a hill starts. You can
walk to the Basavanna statue from the Virupaxa temple along the
Hampi Bazaar. When you walk from the Virupaxa temple along the
bazaar street, it eventually comes to an end at an open space with a
stage / platform. The statue is located at the left side on an elevated
stone platform with pillars supporting the upper structure. Nandi (the
Bull) is the vehicle of the Lord Shive (Virupaxa). It’s thus symbolic
that this statue facing the Shiva Temple located at the other extreme
of the street.
VITTALA TEMPLE
Probably this is the architectural showpiece of Hampi. The
temple itself is built in the form of a campus with compound wall and
gateways. There are many halls and temples located inside the temple
campus. Vittala is in fact another name of Lord Krishna (one of the
10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu). The Temple was built in the 16th
century. The highlight of the Vittala temple is its impressive pillared
halls and the stone chariot. And the halls are carved with an
overwhelming array of sculptures. The stone chariot located inside is
almost an iconic structure of Hampi. It’s believed that the stone
chariot was mobile and was used in temple ceremonies.

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 The stone wheels are now almost frozen, though one can
distinctly see the wheel fixed on the axis. Look close on the floor, you
can see some marks of the old chariot track. It’s believed that the
chariot carries Garuda, the eagle god. A few maters ahead the boulder
strewn path starts. The trail is sort of diffused into the boulder heap.
But still you can make out the path. The trail almost runs parallel to
the riverbank. Somewhere in this area the trail runs under through
some huge rock formation. This is the small stretch in this trail where
you would find a bit difficulty in carrying your bicycle. A few minutes
later you would end in an open expanse - a coracle ferry point, a
bathing ghat, a stepped hall facing the river - adjacent to the
Kondarama Temple (see the separate sub title). This is a point where
you can do a number of side trips and explore a bit of the random
ruins sites and the shrines. Just after the temple you can see a tree 85
a tiny Snake Shrine, meant for snake worship. Cross the Kondarama
Temple, you would again land at a mud track but somewhat bicycle -
able. On the left you can find a few temples. Further ahead, you
would again land at an open expanse, probability, you can spot this
sign post here. Towards the right if you look, you can see the
Achytaraya Temple.
CORACLE CROSSINGS
What’s a Coracle? A country boat to cross the river. Basket is a
more appropriate word than boat. They are huge flat basketlike craft
to ferry people & sheep (yes sheep!). About 6 feet in diameter, coracles
are made of bamboo, cane, plastic sheets and a fine coating of
Bitumen. On an average a coracle takes about 6-8 peoples. At
Hampi there are three places you would find the coracle crossing. The
first one is near the Virupaxa Temple. That’s the ghat (bathing place)
adjacent to the temple. The crossing is mainly for crossing over to the
other side of the river (the Virupapurgadde). Some times the coracle is
used to take the tourists a ‘fun trip’ without any particular
destination. The second ‘coracles spot’ is in front of the Kondarama
temple. There is a big bathing ghat here too.

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GEJJALA MANDAPA

No one knows what exactly the function of this structure was.

This is located at the main road that leads to the Vittala temple. The
main road at the east side of the temple is decorated on either side
with different kinds of structure. Most of it is now getting excavated
and getting reconstructed. The first major site of interest you find
(when you go from the temple along the main road towards east) is a
water tank at the left side. The huge tank is located at about 500
meters from the temple at the foothills of the boulder - strewn hill.
Further if you go along the same road at the right side you would find
Kuduregombe Mantapa. A large hall like structure on the road side.
There are many decorated pillars on an elevated platform.

The removal of the name of world heritage site Hampi from the
list of endangered monuments is recognition for the Hampi
Development Authority which took up several works to develop it as
the historic spot as per the guidelines of UNESCO.
Talking to reporters here, he said the move of the United
Nations' cultural body would draw the attention of international
financial institutions to Hampi facilitating further development of the
site.
He said the UNESCO team, which had visited the heritage site
twice during his tenure, was apprised of the measures taken by both
the Centre and state in developing Hampi as per the parameters set by
it. The team was satisfied with the works and had recommended
deletion of the name of the historic site from the endangered list, he
added.
Mr Srivastav said a revised project plan would be submitted to
the government by September to develop the heritage site further to
enable tourists to know the history of the natural monuments here.

132
 B.FROFILE OF UNESCO

UNESCO - tiie United Nations Educational, Scientific and

Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was founded on 16 November 1945.
For this specialized United Nations agency, it is not enough to build
classrooms in devastated countries or to publish scientific
breakthroughs. Education, Social and Natural Science, Culture and
Communication are the means to a far more ambitious goal: to build
peace in the minds of men. Today, UNESCO functions as a laboratory
of ideas and a standard-setter to forge universal agreements on
emerging ethical issues. The Organization also serves as a
clearinghouse - for the dissemination and sharing of information and
knowledge - while helping Member States to build their human and
institutional capacities in diverse fields. In short, UNESCO promotes
international co-operation among its 191* Member States and six
Associate Members in the fields of education, science, culture and
communication.
UNESCO is working to create the conditions for genuine
dialogue based upon respect for shared values and the dignity of each
civilization and culture. This role is critical, particularly in the face of
terrorism, which constitutes an attack against humanity. The world
urgently requires global visions of sustainable development based
upon observance of human rights, mutual respect and the alleviation
of poverty, all of which lie at the heart of UNESCO’s mission and
activities.
Through its strategies and activities, UNESCO is actively pursuing the
Millennium Development Goals, especially those aiming to:

• halve the proportion of people living in extreme poverty in

developing countries by 2015

• achieve universal primary education in all countries by 2015

133
 • eliminate gender disparity in primary and secondary education
by 2005

• Help countries implement a national strategy for sustainable

development by 2005 to reverse current trends in the loss of
environmental resources by 2015.

• UNESCO and the United Nations Millennium Goals

OBJECTIVES OF UNESCO
The objectives of UNESCO BRESCE are to enhance UNESCO's
role in scientific co-operation within the European region, acting as a
relaying mechanism for the implementation of the relevant parts of its
programme and budget, the promotion of UNESCO's major scientific
projects in Europe and mobilization of extra-budgetary funds; to this
effect, it promotes and co-ordinate the activities aimed at developing
the cultural, scientific and technological capabilities of the countries
of the European region. UNESCO BRESCE stimulates European co­
operation for the promotion of the intellectual potential within these
areas on a broad international basis, and in doing so, it also
contributes to the scientific advancement of developing countries.
Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today,
and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural
heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places
as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa’s Serengeti, the
Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the
Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world’s heritage.
What makes the concept of World Heritage exceptional is its universal
application. World Heritage sites belong to all the peoples of the world,
irrespective of the territory on which they are located.

134
 \

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural

Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification,
protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around
the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. This is
embodied in an international treaty called the Convention
concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural
Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 1972.

UNESCO's World Heritage mission is to:

• encourage countries to sign the World Heritage Convention and

to ensure the protection of their natural and cultural heritage;
• encourage States Parties to the Convention to nominate sites
within their national territory for inclusion on the World
Heritage List;
• encourage States Parties to establish management plans and set
up reporting systems on the state of conservation of their World
Heritage sites;
• help States Parties safeguard World Heritage properties by
providing technical assistance and professional training;
• provide emergency assistance for World Heritage sites in
immediate danger;
• support States Parties' public awareness-building activities for
World Heritage conservation;
• encourage participation of the local population in the
preservation of their cultural and natural heritage;
• encourage international cooperation in the conservation of our
world's cultural and natural heritage.

135
CONSTITUTION OF UNESCO
The Preamble to the Constitution of UNESCO declares that
‘since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men
that the defences of peace must be constructed’.
In order that a unanimous, lasting and genuine peace may be
secured, the Preamble declares that the States Party to the
Constitution believed ‘in full and equal opportunities for education for
all, in the unrestricted pursuit of objective truth and in the free
exchange of ideas and knowledge".
As defined by the Constitution, the purpose of the Organization
is: "to contribute to peace and security by promoting collaboration
among nations through education, science and culture in order to
further universal respect for justice, for the rule of law and for the
human rights and fundamental freedoms which are affirmed for the
peoples of the world, without distinction of race, sex, language or
religion, by the Charter of the United Nations’.

Global Heritage Fund is leading the master planning and world-

class conservation of the Chandraumalueshvara Temple at Hampi,
one of the most architecturally beautiful and centrally located temples
in this endangered UNESCO World Heritage centre. With the active
support of the Karnataka Minister of Culture, the State of Karnataka
Archaeology Department and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI),
Global Heritage Fund is bringing this ancient Hindu site back to life
and helping ensure its protection.

In 1986, UNESCO inscribed the group of monuments at Hampi

as a World Heritage site. More recently, Hampi was listed by UNESCO
on the List of World Heritage in Danger prompted by the construction
of two new suspension bridges and a new major road within the Core
Protected Area which threaten the World Heritage site's integrity.

136
 The construction of bridges and the new road will result in a
major increase in heavy traffic and has already resulted in the
dismantling and reconstruction of an important historic monument -
a mandapa (a pillared stone rest-house) within the borders of the site.

Five years after it placed it on the list of World Heritage in

Danger, Unesco is knocking on the doors of the European Union (EU)
to raise funds for preserving the famed ruins of Hampi in north
Karnataka. Once the majestic capital city of the 14th century
Vijayanagara empire, the ruins of Hampi, 350 km from here, are
spread over a 105 sq. km area and comprise magnificent temples,
forts, waterways and rest houses.

But the priceless heritage is being endangered by gross neglect

and unchecked urbanisation. Now, Unesco plans to restore its original
beauty with funds from the EU on a pilot basis. "We plan to transform
Hampi into a cultural landscape by raising about 800,000 euros from
the EU this year. We are making a presentation to the EU on the pilot
project for its financial support and expertise," Unesco sources said.

"We have already initiated a Rs. 50 million site management

plan in partnership with the local administration and the Hampi
World Heritage Development Authority set up by the state
government," said Unesco director for special projects Minja Yang.
Unesco's game plan is to develop the entire area without distorting the
original landscape, as any unplanned construction or unchecked
growth will complicate the situation.

Yang has been visiting the ruins every year since 1999. She
inspected the site after her colleague met local representatives last
week to draw up the management plan. Regretting the half-hearted
measures of the state government in preserving the rich legacy of the
Vijayanagara empire,

137
 Yang said there was need for a political vision to protect Hampi
ruins through planned development. "The ruins can be conserved and
managed by using newer technologies with a territorial approach
towards the development of the historic place," she reiterated. "ISRO
has developed a software package for preserving Hampi ruins. The
software can also help discover new sites in the region," For instance,
the irrigation system of the Vijayanagara empire along with its canals
can be revived for water supply in Hampi. When Hampi was inscribed
as one of the World Heritage Monuments in 1986, Unesco sanctioned
$100,000 for its conservation. Later, Unesco listed Hampi among 35
other sites as a World Heritage in Danger.

A Unesco team also recommended to the state government five

years ago that two half constructed bridges be demolished. One is for
pedestrians behind the ancient Virupaksha temple and the other is at
Talwarghatta for vehicular traffic between Anegundi and Hampi
towns.

Though construction was suspended, the incomplete bridges

still remain, marring the Hampi skyline. Illegal structures around the
monuments, however, have been razed. Last year, the World Heritage
Management Authority of Hampi was set up by the state government
to monitor the development of the town and prevent the mushrooming
of settlements in the core region. Located on the banks of river
Tungabhadra in Bellary district of north Karnataka, Hampi is one of
the country's most favourite tourist destinations. It is a veritable
treasure house of exquisite rock formations, including the legendary
stone chariot, the statue of Ugra Narasimha and the famed 56 pillars
in the Vittala temple complex that emit musical notes when tapped.

138
 Accessible by road, rail and air (helicopter) from Bangalore, the
complex draws thousands of visitors and tourists from all over the
world.

The mins at Hampi, with its splendid palaces and archways,

have become a focal point of excavations leading to the discovery of
beautiful temples. Founded in 1336, Hampi occupies a pride of place
among historians. Termed as the abode of gods, the Virupaksha
temple, for instance, is the seat of Lord Shiva, the guardian deity of
the Vijayanagara kings. It opens on the western side to a 700-m long
road that was once known as the famous Hampi bazaar, where
merchants sold pearls and precious gems on its pavements during the
golden era of Vijayanagara king Krishna Deva Raya.

Among the other monuments that have stood the test of time is
the Ugra Narasimha figurine, carved out of a single boulder, under a
canopy of a seven-headed snake. At 6.7 m high, the imposing deity
overlooks the green fields and can be spotted from a long distance. It
is no wonder the renowned Persian ambassador Abdur Razzak, who
visited Hampi during the Krishna Deva Raya mle, said this: "The eye
of the pupil has never seen a place like it, and the ear of the
intelligence has never been informed that there existed anything to
equal it in the world."

139
 C. PROFILE OF DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND KSTDC

KSTDC whose second name has been hospitality is the largest

travels corporation of the state is a professionally run State
Government Organization. Established in 1971, KSTDC has ever been
redefining the hospitality. It has greatly been possible because of the
healthy suggestions by the patrons of the arts and culture, who visit
the state from different parts of the world. This has mainly been
possible with the team of professionals who is been trained time and
again to keep updated with the technology to offer better service. The
attitude of never say no has made this a success.

VISION STATEMENT

To be among the pre-eminent tourist

destinations in Asia, with market leadership and
dominance in the following segments:
> Upscale tourism (both national
and international)
> Heritage tourism
> Eco-tourism
> Conventions and conferences
> Exhibitions
> Cruises
> Theme Parks

To be on par with the best in the world; to excel in every facet of the
tourism industry; to emerge as a benchmark for other destinations

140
 MISSION STATEMENT

Completely 'delight and satisfy' customers

across defined segments, through
providing world-class facilities and
services in the medium to long-term
To emerge as a gateway and hub linking
Europe to Asia as well as the Far East to
Middle East and Asia; and as a transit hub
between East and West
To develop world-class infrastructure and
connectivity; including South Asia's most
modem airport, supported with a
Bangalore-headquartered airline
• To develop as a 'boutique destination'
through private-public initiatives To drive
investments into the tourism sector from across the world, into
existing and potential tourism centres

KSTDC holds mirror for Karnataka’s art and culture. KSTDC

with its conducted tours across the state taking you to renowned
cities gives an insight to the blend of culture and growth. Probably
the most refreshing example of the largest democracy also brings the
comfort of traveling with ultra -modem Aerotech Coaches. Mayura
Group of Hotels the premium lodging and restaurants setup and
maintained by KSTDC are known for their high standards of service
and excellent hospitality.

KSTDC offer charming, fascinating Scenic, Historic, full of

wonders waiting to be discovered. That’s Karnataka for you. A state
with many sparking facets, each very special. For the history
enthusiast, the stark north offers an enchanting journey into the past
with monuments that breather tales to valour from another era. The
pilgrim could find solace and spiritual roots in the glorious temples,
churches and mosques that dot the entire land. The holiday seeker

1d1
will find tranquility in Karnataka’s pristine hill resorts or bask in the
exotic beaches of Karwar, Mangalore, Ullal and others. There are
dense forests where you can camp and wake up to the chirping of
boards. Wildlife sanctuaries where you can sport elephants, Bison,
Deer or any of the big cats including the majestic tiger. Karnataka is
a land worth touring.... Made especially so by KSTD- the people who
operate the best guided tours in Karnataka.
What does KSTDC offer ?
KSTDC offers you the guarantee of being looked like a king.
You can stay at the chain of Mayura Hotels, strategically located for
convenience and the service of guides who like their vocation and
hence do a thorough job. KSTDC offers complete tour facilities
including coaches, cars, hotel stay and restaurant facilities. KSTDC
uses state-of-the- art and thus extremely comfortable Aerotech
coaches to ensure fatigue free journey for you.
Conducted tours are the most popular service offered by
KSTDC. It is the only tour operator in the state with the best of
facilities covering accommodation, leisure and travel, bringing you the
utmost satisfaction of perfect holiday. Apart from the excellent
facilities of hotels, restaurants, modern and comfortable coaches and
cars, KSTDC is the only best tour organizer. That’s because of the
guides located at strategic places to take the tourists in through the
history, culture and tradition. To sum it up, the service of KSTDC
will just be another reason for you to come back to India and in
particular to Karnataka.
Kannada Poem
A poem by K.V. Puttappa, popularly known as Kuvempu, was
the greatest ever Kannada poet, bestowed upon him are the India’s
highest Civilian Award "Bharatha Ratna", Rashtra Kavi" (National
Poet), and "Jnanapeeth" Award laurite.

142
 In one of his poems on Karnataka he calls on the tourists to

"Hail! the beloved daughter of the Mother India;

Hail! the motherland Karnataka !
Hail! the land of beautiful monuments and forests
Hail! thy abode of gifted saints and poets"
HOTEL WING

Mayura Group of Hotels is a chain of 24 budget class hotels, 6

Restaurants and 3 boat clubs setup and maintained by KSTDC across
the state. A Successful attempt in bringing the homely pleasure at a
place far from home speaks of the proficiency of KSTDC. You have a
choice of places with different culture and varying weather conditions
suiting all tastes, for young and old, for Adventure seekers and
Connoisseur’s of art.
KSTDC hotels are located at Belgaum, Hampi, Mercara, Mysore,
Ooty, Belur, Bijapur, Tirumal, Devarayanadurga, Badami, Gokarna,
TB Dam - Hospet, Jog Falls, Halebeedu, Mulabagal, Gulbarga, Nandi
Hills, K.R. Sagar, Srirangapattana, Maddenahalli and Yadiyur.
The KSTDC restaurants and boat clubs are located at Shiradi,
Mutyalamadu, Ramohalli, Bannerghatta National Park, Balbhavan,
Ulsoor Boat Club-Bangalore, and Sankey Boat Club - Bangalore.
The important tourism bases covered by the Karnataka State
Tourism Development Corporation are morefully enumerated under
different captions in the chart 4.1

143
 4:1 KARNATAKA MAP

Karnataka
(District Map)
MAHARASHTRA

Gulbarga

Bagalkot Raichur

Dharwad•
Gadag ANDHRA PRADESH

Davangm
Chitradui

ARABIAN 8EA
'Pi Chikmangalur
MajHjcMoScate
Bangalon

0 State Capital
— State Boundary

TAMILNADU

Copyright (c) Compare Infobase Pvt. Ltd 2001-02

^AA
 www.irupsofindu.ccni

TOURISM MAP OF KARNATAKA

Maharashtra

Andhra Pradesh
ARABIAN SEA

Q State Capital

0 District Headquarter
- Touist Circuit

,'t Historical Place

1 iillRewit
Beach Bannerghata

$ Important Tourist Base

Somanaihai
« Wild Life Sanctuary Tamil Nadu
Piligrim Centre Marie
MMOTTOSCAU

%, Fails (Pondicherry]
ipare Infobase Pvt. Ltd. 2001-02

1AZ
 ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE OF KSTDC

i......... ......... . | OSD —1 1 8 M.D’s PERSONAL

G.M(H) — 1 G.M (P.A) /
COMPSPCY-1 § ESTT.
S.O(H) - 1
C.M(H) - 2 P.A TO M.D -1
DRIVER -1
ATTENDER -1
MARKETING CELL -
I

146
 STAFF OF STAFF OF
STAFF OF STAFF OF
TRANSPORT STAFF OF
ADMINISTRATION ACCOUNT HOTEL
SECTION THE
SECTION SECTION
Manager P.A - 1 S.A.0 -1 Sr A.T.O - 1 Manager -1 18 Hotels and
Steno Gr-1 -1 A.O. -2 S D.A - 1 Sr Steno -1 06 Restaurants
F.D.A -3 J.A.0 -5 Peon - 1 Infor Asst. 03 best clubs
Tel Oper - 1 F.D.A -4 1 And 1 Kiosk
S.D.A -3 Infor -1 F.D.A
Typist -1 Steno -1 1
Waiter -1 Sr A.A -1 Bill Clerk/
Peon -4 Bill Clerk -1 Cashier -1
Typist -1 Peon
Attender - X 1
Peon -X

Work Shop Badami House C.R.S Airport Transport Transport Unit Transport
Bangalore Bangalore Counter Counter Unit Mysore Mangalore Unit Hospet

Staff - WkShp Staff Badami Staff CHS Staff Staff Staff of Trans Staff Trans Unit
Bangalore House Counter airport Trans Unit Unit Hospet
counter Mysore Mangalore
J.A.O-1 A.T.O - 3 A.T.O - 1 LA. - 1 A.T.O - 1 1.A- 1 A.T.O - 2
F.A.A-2 Supr - 1 I. A — 1 S.D A - 1 D.A. - 1 S.D .A - 1 Driver - 1
H.M-1 INFMN - 3 F.D.A - 1 Peon - 1 F.D.A - 3 Attender - 1
Mech. Gr-1 AST. F.D.A - 3 Peon - 1 Mech - 1 Peon - 1
A Mech - 19 F.D.A - 1 T-Guide- 2
S.D.A-6 T.Guide - 10 Driver - 5
Driver -13 S.D.A - 5 Cleaner - 1
Asst. Typ - 1 Driver - 1 Peon - 2
Mech - 1 Attendr - 1 Uty Wfr- 1
Cleaner - 5 Peon -1
Peon - 4 Watchman - 1
Uty. Wkr - 1 Sweeper - 2

147
 ABBREVIATIONS
1) K.S.T.D.C - Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation,
2) P.A - Personal Assistant
3) G.M (F.A) - General Manager (Financial Account) / Comp
Secretary Co secy.
4) C.A.A.O - Chief Accounts and Audit Officer
5) O.S.D - Officer on Special Duty
6) G.M (H) - General Manager (Hotels)
7) S.O (H) - Special Officer (Hotels)
8) C.M (H) - Commercial Manager (Hotels)
9) S.O (w) - Special Officer (Work Shop)
10) S.A.O - Senior Accounts Officer
11) Manager P.A - Manager - Personnel Administration.
12) F.D.A - First Division Assistant
13) S.D.A - Second Division Assistant
14) A.O - Accounts Officer
15) J.A.O - Junior Accounts Officer
16) Infmn Asst - Information Assistant
17) A.T.O - Assistant Transport Officer
18) Sr. A.T.O - Senior Assistant Transport Officer
19) Sr. A.A - Senior Administrative Assistant
20) Tpt. Off - Transport Officer
21) H.M - Head Mechanic
22) Mech. Gr - 1 - Mechanic Grade - 1
23) A - mech - Assistant Mechanic
24) Uty - Wkr - Utility Worker
25) T - Guide - Tourist Guide
26) Mech - Mechanic
27) C.R.S - City Railway Station (Information and Booking
Counter)
28) Bill Clerk/ C - Bill Clerk/Cashier

148
 Tourist Arrivals

What is the quantum of tourist arrival to Karnataka from domestic

and international segments? The arrival of tourist to a great extent
depends on many imponderable factors. This is evidenced in the
following table 4.1 wherein one can perceptibly notice and may
arrive at one's own categorical imperatives that are applicable to
tourism sector.

TABLE: 4.1
Tourist Arrivals during the three years period of 2002-03,
2003-04 and 2004-05

YEAR 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05

-Domestic 1,11,75,292 2,11,59,704 2,52,09,913
(100%) (189.34%) (225.58%)
, international 2,52,000 5,30,000 6,00,299
(100%) (210.32%) (238.21%)
Total 1,14,27,292 2,16,89,704 2,58,10,212
Percentage (100%) (210.32%) (238.21%)
of
Growth
(Source: KSTDC)

In the year 2002-03, the percentage increase in the domestic tour

arrival went upto 189.34 percent and it was 210.32 percent in
respect of foreign tourist arrivals (base year = 2002-03). Similarly,
the trend shows upward growth for the year 2004-05 wherein the
domestic figure went upto 225.58 percent and international figure
has gone upto 238.21 percent. Over all the arrivals for the years
2003-04 and 2004-05 was satisfactory.

149
 REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE OF THE CORPORATION
The income statement of the corporation reveals momentous
aspects that speak of its performance holistically. Accordingly, from
the annual reports of the KSTDC and also by personal interviewing
of the authority concerned, the following facts and figures are
compiled and shown at table 4.2

TABLE: 4.2
INCOME STATEMENT OF KSTDC
FOR THE THREE YEARS 2002-03, 2004-05 AND 200S-06

PARTICULARS 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05

' ‘ RS. • • • Rs. Rs.

A. Income '
. Sales and 121,580,970.40 1,46,354,158.48 154,720,186.70
Collections
Miscellaneous 16,445,511.35 5,188,948.10 22,592,177.08.
income
Total Income 138026,481.75 1,51,543,106.58 177,312,363.78

B.Exnenditure
Service,
Administration
Selling and
expenditure . 128,030,514.44. 130,693,674.63 147,862,791.41
Interest 3,433,663-50 3,886,921,00 4,250,475.00
Depreciation : 8,613,064.73 6,060,488.19 4,567,519.25
Total 140,077,242.67 14,641,083.82 156,680,785.66
Expenditure

■ ' A-B -" \ 2,050,761.08 10,902,022,76 20,631,578.12

EBT (Loss) (Profit) (Profit) .
& Adjustment
prior period. \
expenses
. EAT ;
& Adjustment 2,050,761.08 3,09,529.59 23,213,563.62
prior period
expenses
(source: Annual Reports of KSTDC)

1.40
During the year 2002 - 03, the corporation incurred loss to the extent of Rs.20.51
Lakh. Miraculously owing to astonishing inflow of tourist arrivals both in the
domestic and international categories, the profit steeply increased to 247.22 percent
from the base year 2002-03. Further the corporation by maintaining consistency in its
tourist attractions posted a phenomenal profit of 1213.94 percent from the same base

year.

151