Hospet

Introduction: Located 340 kms away from Bangalore, Hospet in Karnataka is an ideal haven for those who want to visit the architectural remains of the temples of Vijayanagar Empire. On all sides of Hospet, you can see large hills made of granite boulders. Hampi lies 13 kms form Hospet. Hampi is the site of the ruins of temples. Hampi is at a distance of 340 kms from Bangalore. Another place worthy of visiting in Hospet is the Tungabhadra Dam based on the Tungabhadra River. You can also visit the famous Japanese garden at the base of the dam. It is mainly an agricultural service town, although there are a number of big iron mines and steel mills in the area.
 
History: Hospet was once the stronghold of the mighty Vijayanagar Empire while Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. Most of the remains of the Vijayanagar Empire are accumulated in the places near Hampi mainly in the sites of Hospet. And Hospet is the perfect center for the visitors of Hampi. It is just 13 km away from Hampi and it is also known as the gateway to Hampi. The findings from the excavation of Hospet reveal the involvement of Hospet in the history of Karnataka.

Places of interest: Chitradurga, commonly called the Kallina Kote, which means the place of Stones. Tourists often visit the Chitradurga Fort which was built by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Its architecture to say the least, is awe-inspiring. Seven walls encircle the fort area and about nineteen gates provide entry and exit to visitors to appreciate the military architecture. Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Harihara is another attraction of Hospet. The holy town of Harihara has several thousand devotees coming to the place to relieve themselves of their sins. The legend goes that the union of Lord Vishnu with the Tungabhadra River can cure any ill person. For that, the patient will have to have a bath in the river.

Travel information: Tourist importance of Hospet lies in its proximity to Hampi, the site of the medieval Vijayanagar Empire. Though the place of Hospet is not so large yet, the place has some of the best hotel that provides furnished accommodation to its visitors. The nearest airport is situated at Bellary about 75 km from the place of Hospet. The Bangalore and Belgaum airport is placed about 350 kms and 200 kms. The ideal time to travel to Hospet is September to February.