The Achyuta Raya Temple (Tiruvengalanatha temple), Hampi, was built in 1534 CE by king Achyuta Deva Raya. It is one of the most magnificent, dazzling and awe-inspiring temples of Hampi, located at the eastern side of Matanga hill.
It was initially known as Tiruvengalanatha (Vishnu) temple. The temple is distinctly visible from the top of Matanga Hill.
The Garbhagriha is located at the centre of two grand rectangular concentric courtyards. The inner sides of both the courtyard walls are lined-up with pillared mantapas / verandah. The temple faced senseless wrath of destruction and is in ruins.
The temple is replete with two large Gopurams facing north, series of pillared Mantapas, Maha mantapa, Ranga mantapa, Kalyana mantapa, Sukanasi and Garbhagriha – all with exquisite sculpturing and carvings.
Although in ruins, the temple awes one with its grandeur, splendour and magnificence!
The grand Achutaraya Bazaar (market) in front of the temple, with pavilions on both the sides, and wide grand boulevard in between, leads to river Tungabhadra at the other end.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JTfRgkYDUMu5oTdA6
#drive #nature #heritage
About Hampi:
Hampi (Kishkinda), Karnataka is situated on the banks of river Tungabhadra 340 km north of Bengaluru.
With more than 1,600 monuments covering ~40 sq kms, Hampi is a World Heritage Site and World’s Largest Open-air Museum.
Hampi, referred to as Kishkinda in Ramayana, has ancient history traceable to thousands of years.
Most of the current day ruins were built by Vijayanagara kings during 1336 – 1565 CE.
Hampi at one time was most prosperous and considered to be the largest city in the World. As per the chronicles of European and Persian travellers, Hampi had dedicated trading markets for diamonds, pearls, silks, brocades, and had opulent palaces, marvelous temples, royal quarters, embassies for foreign emissaries, massive fortifications, large pools, baths, water management systems, aquaducts, pavilions, stables, riverside features, pillared halls, Mandapas, memorial structures, gateways and defence check posts.
Hampi – it’s a living museum!
