Hospet – situated in the Bellary district of Karnataka
Hospet is a town situated in the Bellary district of Karnataka. Situated on the banks of River Tungabhadra, Hospet is about 325 km away from Bangalore and 77 km away from Bellary town.
The origin of Hospet town can be dated back to the 12th century, when it was a territory under the Vijayanagara Empire. It was King Krishna Deva Raya in 1520 AD, who founded the ancient city of Hospet and named it as Nagalapura, after his mother Nagalambika. However, the people of this region changed this name to ‘Hosa Pete’ (New City).
Hospet tourism offers the ancient reservoir and an architectural marvel, Tungabhadra Dam, built by Krishnadevaraya, dating back to 12th century AD. The Japanese-styled garden has been recently added to the area nearby dam that offers relaxation and amusement to kids.
The prime attraction of Hospet tourism is that this town act as the base for trips to Hampi, the erstwhile capital of Vijayanagara Empire. Since Hampi is only 12 km away from Hospet, this town is fondly called as ‘the gateway to Hampi’. Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hence becomes the prime attraction for the tourists visiting Hospet. Hampi, destroyed during the invasion of Deccan Sultanate, is a site of ruins and ancient monuments. But even the ruins at Hampi tell tales about the glory and excellence of Vijayanagara period. While visiting Hampi do visit Vithala temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Ugra Narasimha and the Stone Chariot.
Hospet tourism also offers excursion destinations to its visitors. Chitradurga, situated in the river valley of Vedavati, is one such destination famous among history lovers. The town of Chitradurga is famous for Chitradurga Fort, which is enclosed and guarded within seven walls. This fort, considered a marvel for the defence tactics, is a popular historic destination in Karnataka.
Hospet also offers pilgrimage trips to its visitors. Harihar, situated on the river banks of Tungabhadra, is such a destination owing to the Harihareshwar situated here. Harihareshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Harihareshwar, was built in 1223 AD in the Hoysala temple architectural style. It is believed that one can be relieved of his sins if he visit Lord Harihareshwar after the ritualistic bathe on the Harihar Ghat in the Tungabhadra river. Hospet tourism also offers Archaeological Museum of Harihar that displays an array of ancient coins and manuscripts.
Hospet is well connected to all major cities and towns of Karnataka by roads and rails. The nearest airport to Hospet is at Bellary, which is 77 km away.
For More Info: Hotels in Hospet and Hospet Tourism