Shri Krishna Temple

The Shri Krishna Temple in Hampi is an architectural marvel, showcasing intricate carvings and rich historical significance. However, improved maintenance and preservation efforts could enhance the experience, ensuring its legacy is better appreciated by visitors.

The Sri Krishna Temple in Hampi is a magnificent testament to the cultural and architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara Empire. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple holds immense historical, religious, and artistic significance. Built during the reign of King Krishnadevaraya, the temple is one of the most celebrated structures in Hampi.The main deity of the temple was Bala Krishna (infant Krishna), brought from Udayagiri (present-day Odisha) as a symbol of this victory.The temple’s foundation and details are mentioned in inscriptions found at the site. The mahadwara (main entrance) features elaborate carvings depicting stories from the life of Krishna, including scenes from the Mahabharata and Bhagavata Purana. The mandapa (pillared hall) and sanctum showcase exquisite craftsmanship, reflecting the artistic zenith of the Vijayanagara period. The Sri Krishna Temple stands as a monument of devotion, artistic grandeur, and historical significance, reflecting the glory and legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire.

This temple was built by the king (Krishnadevaraya) in 1513 AD to celebrate the conquest of the eastern kingdom of Udayagiri or Utkala (in the present day Orissa state). The main idol installed in the temple was the figure of Balakrishna (Lord Krishna as infant). This idol is now displayed in the state museum at Chennai. A huge slab installed inside the courtyard of the temple states the story of this temple and the conquest of Ulkala. This is one of the must see sites in Hampi. The carvings are especially spectacular with the Yalis (the mythical lion) on the pillars and the entrances to the temple hall flanged with impressive carvings of elephant balustrades. Many small shrines and pillared halls adorn the campus. The temple kitchen is located at the south east of the main shrine. The main tower at the east is an impressive sight with numerous carvings on it (now the tower is under restoration work). You can see the carvings of the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu in this temple. This is one of the few temples where the epic stories carved on the walls of the tower. This is fairly an intact specimen of a Vijayanagara era temple. The main temple hall The main road to Hampi passes through the temple campus. You can spot a small pavilion with a rectangular stone container in front of the temple across the road. This was used to store grains for the ritual purpose in the temple festivals. The position and design of the vessel suggests devotees used to donate food grain as offering at the temple. The main temple hall Further east outside the temple you can see a long hall like structure. On the right (south) of it are the banana plantations. The left area is mostly a rocky landscape. This was actually the high street (the chariot street) once led to the temple called the Krishna Bazaar.

I loved this temple a lot. This is one of the masterpiece in Hampi. You'll find it in good condition. It's beautifully designed and developed. If you want to photoshoot or videography then it's perfect spot for you. Here You'll get to know about ancient culture in detail. No tickets no parking problem at all here.