The Vithala temple,which is also known as the most splendid monument of Hampi is situated on the Southern bank of the Tungabhadra River. It is a world heritage monument dating back to the 15th century and is known for its extensive sculptured work,ornate pillars and the carvings that decorate them. Built during the rule of King Devaraya(II),it shows the high perfection of the Vijayanagara style.
The temple is built out of hard granite around an area of 500 by 300 feet. It has 56 pillars in the main hall,which produce musical notes when struck. In the courtyard is the life-size chariot carved out of granite with actually revolving wheels. The temple is famous for its beautifully carved gopurams and mandapas.
Some of the inner pillars in the Mandapa contain figures of women dancers and drummers and beautiful multi-petalled lotus carvings. This is one of the most ornate Vijaynagar temples built over a period of time. Here tapping certain stone pillars produces harmonics that can only be described as ethereal,and it's something that's quite impossible to imaging until you hear a tune being tapped out on a stone carving of a drum.
The stone chariot in this temple is very famous. Its stone wheels,each shaped in the form of a lotus,are capable of revolving. Temple chariots are often mobile reproductions of a temple. The stone chariot here is in turn a static version of the mobile temple chariot.
History
The construction of this temple started during the reign of King Krishna Deva Raya in the year 1513 AD. The project was so colossal that the additions continued for almost five decades until the Empire fell down in the year 1565 AD.
Architecture
Built mainly on the original Drividian Temple architecture, this temple has all the stuff a typical South Indian temple would have. There is small a main inner sanctum where the deity idol(s) are placed. Only the chief priest of the temple is permitted inside this sanctum. The smaller sanctum is followed by a bigger outer shrine where the general public is allowed. The monumental decoration of the temple can be seen mainly in this bigger outer house.
The temple stands, within high walls with 3 gateways on the east, south and north. The temple stands on a strong stone basement with richly carved designs of the King's army and dancing girls. The dancing halls and kalyanamantapas in the corners are equally worth noticing
The carvings on this temple give an insight into the architectural splendour achieved by the artisans of Vijayanagara Empire. The temple consists of 56 musical pillars. When tapped gently, these pillars produce musical sounds. These pillars are popularly known as Musical Pillars or SaReGaMa pillars after the Saptha Swaras of the Indian Classical Music.
Reaching There
Vitthala temple complex is situated 2 km east of Hampi Bazaar. There are signs giving directions at frequent intervals which one can follow to reach there.
