340 kilometres from Bangalore lie the sprawling ruins of a fascinating city with an intriguing legacy. One of the richest and largest cities of the ancient world is now a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site and the pride of Karnataka. Hampi's architectural marvels entice travellers with forgotten tales that recount the glory of the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. 1,600 structures dot the area, including ancient temples, treasury buildings, bazaars, royal pavilions and waterbodies. The setting by the Tungabhadra surrounded by hills only adds to the magic. A land of mysteries, Hampi throws up endless surprises for the curious eye.

1. Hampi's many names: It is believed that the name Hampi derives from the Kannada 'Hampe' (from Pampa). But few people know that the city is also known by other names like Kishkinda-kshetra, Pampa-kshetra or Bhaskara-kshetra.

2. Beauty of boulders: The history of Hampi goes far back into time, beyond the Vijayanagara kingdom and mythology. Giant boulders that make up the landscape of the land have been formed over millions of years. Though the architectural wonders of the site are more popular, it is the hills, valleys and riverbeds of Hampi that lend it a unique appeal.

3. Musical pillars: Vitthala Temple in Hampi is a genius of engineering. It is made up of stone pillars that are designed to emit musical notes when tapped. More interestingly, each pillar is engraved with the image of the instrument whose sound it creates.

4. Secret chambers: The Royal Enclosure of Hampi hides a secret passage with steps leading to an underground chamber. The place is rumoured to have been the location of war plans, interrogations and spy scenes. Pages of history come to life here with an extra dose of imagination.

5. Mythology on walls: Hampi's connection with the Ramayana is well-known, but it is also documented on the inner walls of the Hazara Rama Temple. One can find scenes from the epic engraved in the complex. In fact, if one moves clockwise and perambulates the temple ('pradakshina'), one can follow the entire story of the Ramayana.

6. A red river flows by: Tungabhadra river is a sight for its red water. While crossing the river by ferry from Hampi to Hippie Island, one can spot a variety of statues on the rocks. The river ride is a must-do to soak in the experience of being in Hampi. Unravel the reason for the red water or just glide along, enjoying the cool breeze.

7. Inverted shadow: The 52-meter high, 9-storied structure Virupaksha temple holds a mystery yet to be decoded. The shadow of the Gopuram can be seen inverted in a room located in the far north-west end of the temple. It is a pinhole camera effect created with stonework. Over a three-day long cultural extravaganza, the Hampi Festival amps up the splendour factor of the ancient city with a plethora of performances, kite festival, water sports, food courts, photography competitions and much more.

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