Hampi Bazaar, Hampi, Karnataka India

Also known as Virupaksha Bazaar, this street is located in font of the Virupaksha temple . About a kilometer long, the east end of the temple ends at the foothill of the Matanga Hill . Both sides of the street are lined with a series of old pavilions, some of them are two storied. These structures were once part of a thriving market and residence of the nobles. Towards the west end (towards Virupaksha temple) the pavilions are now encroached and made into shops, restaurants and the likes making the street narrower. Poor villagers have made the eastern section into their homes. It's interesting the houses of the rich merchants and nobles of the empire are now being occupied by one of the poorest. One enters into the street from the bus stand through a gate. Movement of motor vehicle entry is regulated. But two wheelers are freely allowed to enter the street.

Hampi Bazaar, also known as Virupaksha Bazaar, is a market street located in front of the Virupaksha temple. About a kilometer long, the east end of the Bazaar ends at the foothill of the Matanga Hill. Both sides of the street are lined with a series of old pavilions, wherein some of them are two storied. These structures were once part of a thriving market and residence of the nobles.

A huge Nandi (bull statue) called is located at the east end of the street. A next to it is a two storied pavilion where a photo gallery is functioning. Photos of the Hampi sites taken by Alexander Greenlaw in 1856 are on display. Admission is free. An open platform nearby is the main stage of the annual Hampi festival. The circular pillars used are of interest.