Virupaksha Temple

Virupaksha Temple is Hampi's living heart — a functioning 7th-century Shiva temple with a magnificent 50-metre gopuram at the centre of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, continuously worshipped for over 1,300 years. One of India's oldest active temples, it remains a major pilgrimage destination for devotees and a top Hampi sightseeing attraction for tourists. Entry free for devotees; small fee for others. Most atmospheric at dawn during morning prayers. The temple elephant Lakshmi is a beloved resident.