IndiaHampiHampi is one of those places — like Goa, Kathmandu or Bangkok — that was beloved of hippies and backpackers long before the rest of the world caught on. As a result, there’s a distinctly bohemian, countercultural flavour to its tourism; the lazy, friendly vibe of a place that’s worn-in without being sharp-elbowed or jaded — like a comfortable old shoe. Overview Trip ideas Experiences Regions Best time to visit Accommodation Back to all places in Goa, Karnataka & Hyderabad Perhaps an old shoe isn’t the best metaphor, because Hampi isn’t just comfortable — it’s gorgeous. The big draw here is the ruined city of Vijayanagar, an astonishing, sprawling archaeological site predating all the Mughals and maharajas who dominated Indian history for centuries.Over 1,600 Vijayanagar structures still exist in Hampi, including elephant stables, a queen’s bathhouse, forts, stepwells, temples, marriage halls and gopura gates. There’s something of Pompeii in the way you can still trace its layout, following wide, pillar-lined streets to brilliantly carved temples and a huge, now-empty marketplace — though at its height, Vijayanagar was far grander than Pompeii ever was. This is where a good guide is imperative: some of the stories of phenomenal wealth and catastrophic decline are almost unbelievable.People come to Hampi for the ruins (or, increasingly, the excellent rock climbing scene), but it’s the atmosphere that keeps them. Tourism is still small-scale, and village life is slow, with chilled-out cafés, great food, chai shacks and amazing sunset spots. The countryside, meanwhile, is beautiful: Flintstones-style boulders punctuated with palm trees, banana plantations, paddy fields and coconut groves. In other words, it’s a little bit of paradise. Other destinations in this region India BangaloreYoung, global, edgy — whether you’re after live music, craft coffee, or avant-garde theatre, Bangalore is one of India’s most exciting & progressive cities. India ChikmagalurTake a load off and soak up the scenery in Chikmagalur, known for its vivid green coffee plantations surrounded by lush, mist-cloaked mountains. India CoorgStay among coffee and cashew plantations, hike through pristine forest, and experience Kodava culture at this remote hill region in the Western Ghats. India HassanOnce the heart of the Hoysala Empire, Hassan is now the staging point for visiting its most beautiful relics: the World Heritage temples of Belur and Halebidu. India HyderabadHyderabad is home to vast film studios, palatial houses and shiny shopping malls — juxtaposed with one of India’s most atmospheric old Islamic quarters. India Kabini National ParkKabini is south India’s premier national park. Visit to spot tigers, leopards and more — and visit Jenu Kuruba tribal villages on the fringes of the jungle. India Mysore It’s best-known for its magnificent Royal Palace, but what we love most about Mysore is its tropical small-town atmosphere and sprawling, medievalesque market. India North GoaOld Portuguese buildings, hippie culture and the best beaches in India combine to give North Goa its unique, fun-loving character. India South GoaEvery bit as beautiful as in the north, South Goa is all about slowing down and soaking up the surroundings, from beaches to fishing hamlets & tropical forest.