Achyutaraya Temple

Achyutaraya Temple Overview

Achyutaraya Temple is one of the splendid examples of Vijayanagara Empire in Hampi. The Temple was built in 1534 AD and was the last of the empire’s magnificence before its downfall. It was built by the King Achuta Deva Raya and hence the name of the temple. Formally, it was called Tiruvengalanatha Temple, but later it was renamed to its maker.Achyutaraya Temple is situated in between Gandhamadana and Matanga Hills.

Sadly, after the end of the great empire, the temple was overrun by the Bahamani Monarchs into ruins. Achyutaraya Temple is dedicated to one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu, Lord Tiruvengalantha. Although the temple was damaged then, still it holds the magnanimous beauty even in 2020 and must-visit include in Hampi tour packages.The Temple is situated in off location which makes it insulated from the noises of the cities. The travelers who seek quiet tourist spots, then a vacation to the hidden, alluring, stunning temple will be appropriate.

Achyutaraya Temple Architecture

As you enter the grand temple, you’ll witness the idol sitting royally in the center on a couple of rectangular enclosing. Fortunately, the destruction didn’t wipe clean of the ornamentation and meticulously carving in the walls, pillars, and towers of Achyutaraya Temple. 

The paintings, statues, and sculptures show several mythic scenes like Lord Vishnu bestowing blessings to an elephant, baby Krishna is dancing around with his playmate – snake by holding its tail, the famous clip where Lord Krishna is playing his flute, surrounded by calves, etc.  The Temple is vividly visible from the Matanga Hill Top. It’s one of the top places to visit in Hampi because of the richness of the Vijayanagara architectural designs and Mandapa. There is a room called as Mandapa in the temple which translates to English as Marriage Hall for Goddesses and Gods for a yearly wedding.  

Achyutaraya Temple Timings

The doors of Achyutaraya Temple are open every day. The visitors are allowed to enter in the morning from 05:30 AM till 01:00 Pm. Then again, the tourists can visit from 05:30 PM to 09:00 PM. You can enjoy Hampi tourism all around the year, but from November to March, you’ll partner with soothing weather.