Sasivekalu Ganesha, Kadlekalu Ganesha, and Ruins of Hampi Bazar
We started climbing down the Hemakuta Hill at around 1 PM. Enroute, we visited one of the big Ganesha idols of Hampi, Sasivekalu Ganesha. Since it was carved by a mustard seller, the idol is named as Sasivekalu Ganesha (“Sasive kalu” in Kannada means “Mustard seed”).
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Sasivekalu Ganesha
Kadalekalu Ganesha
Near to Sasivekalu Ganesha there is Krishna temple. We decided to visit this temple post lunch as we thought it would take more time. Instead of this temple, we covered Kadalekalu Ganesha which is present on the way to Virupaksha temple from Krishna temple. This was a surprising monument for us.
This monolithic idol is unbelievably huge. Do not ignore this just by seeing the photos. Photos won’t do justice to its hugeness. This idol should be in your must-visit places of Hampi. Outside there is a beautiful mantapa with pillars decorated with simple carvings. Sat there for some time enjoying the cool breez. Then we headed back to the parking lot area and searched around if there are any hotels nearby for our lunch. Unfortunately, there was none. We did not have any other option but to travel to Mango tree for lunch.
Hampi Bazar
Before going for lunch, we walked through the Hampi Bazar which is located just next to the parking lot. This street in front of Virupaksha temple was very popular during Vijayanagara rule. History says this was the street where Gold, diamond, jewels and other expensive items used to be sold openly like how vegetables are sold now. It is disheartening to see the ruins of such a rich heritage.
We had lunch in Mango tree restaurant – one of the most popular restaurants in Hampi. The hotel truly deserves the popularity as the price is reasonable and service is extremely fast. Also, as you can get all cuisine food which attracts a lot of foreign tourists.
| Date: 10-Feb-18 to 11-Feb-18 |
| Route travelled: Virupaksha Temple > Hemakuta Hill > sasivekalu Ganesha > Kadlekalu Ganesha > Hampi Bazar |
| Photos: HAMPI – Day 1 Album |
Route Map:
Hiking up he Hemakuta Hill would be an awesome thing to do and the scenery looks astonishing! Thanks for the awesome itinerary which I hope to put into use soon!
Thanks Lydia. Glad to hear you liked our post.