Fact File Area - 28.39 sq. km  Population - 114,154  Altitude - 480 metres above sea level  Languages - Kannada, English Best Time to Visit - October to March  STD Code - 08394

Introduction Hospet, a small dusty town in Northern Karnataka, was once the seat of the powerful Vijayanagar Empire. Though the town does not have much to offer the visitors, its importance lies in its nearness to Hampi, the erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagar rulers. There was a time when Hampi was the epitome of architectural wonders. Most of the great buildings of this place are now in ruins though UNESCO and the Archaeological Survey of India have tried their best to recreate the original charm of the place. Hospet is the ideal base for tourists visiting Hampi and other nearby places. Sightseeing The artisans of the Vijayanagar Empire perfected the art of blending their architectural style with the rocky terrain of the region. The excavations at Hampi carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India in collaboration with the Karnataka Government in 1976 have revealed the ruins of a rich and flourishing empire. Today the ruins lie sprawled over a large area of 26 square kilometres. Of the other attractions, the Chitradurga Fort (290 km) situated at the foothills of a group of granite hills is worth visiting. Excursions A little away from Hospet lies the Tungabhadra Dam (6 km), which was completed in 1953 to provide electricity for irrigation in the surrounding districts. It is a major picnic spot today with a deer park, aviary, and ornamental gardens.