After breakfast we depart for a day trip to Hampi, the seat of the famed Vijayanagara Empire, which was the capital of the largest empire in post-Mughal India, covering several states. Although in ruins today, this capital city once boasted riches known far beyond the shores of India. The ruins of Hampi of the 14th Century lies scattered in about 26 sq. km area, amidst giant boulders and vegetation. Protected by the tempestuous river Tungabhadra in the north and rocky granite ridges on the other three sides, the ruins silently narrate the story of grandeur splendour and fabulous wealth. The splendid remains of palaces and gateways of the broken city tell a tale of man’s infinite talent and power of creativity together with his capacity for senseless destruction.

We walked the site the entire morning and as a treat before lunch we had another surprise. We took a ride on a Crocle, which is a circular boat made of Bamboo. It was pleasant on the water and a nice break for us. The massive ancient ruins speaks of another example of a conqueror.