Background

Chakra Tirtha: Hampi's Sacred Whirlpool

Discover Chakra Tirtha in Hampi: a sacred site with swirling waters, ancient carvings, and mythical legends on the banks of the Tungabhadra River.

4.7

Chakra Tirtha, meaning 'sacred water body that swirls,' is a revered spot in Hampi on the Tungabhadra River. Pilgrims bathe here before visiting nearby temples, and legend says Lord Shiva gave his Chakra weapon to Vishnu at this site. The swirling waters and carvings on the rocks create a unique spiritual atmosphere.

A brief summary to Chakra Tirtha

  • Monday 6 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-6 pm
  • Friday 6 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and to witness the sunrise.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the temples and be respectful of local customs.
  • Avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to high water levels and strong currents.
  • Take a coracle ride for a unique perspective of the river and surrounding temples.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Hampi Bazaar, Chakra Tirtha is approximately 400 meters to the east. Walk along the main road towards the Virupaksha Temple, then continue east, following the Tungabhadra River. The path leads past the end of Hampi Bazaar towards the Kodanda Rama Temple and Chakra Tirtha. The walk takes about 5-10 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Hampi bus station, take a local bus towards Hospet and ask the driver to stop at Nimbapura. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, and the fare is approximately ₹20-₹30. From Nimbapura, walk about 1.5 kilometers to Chakra Tirtha or hire a local auto-rickshaw for ₹50-₹100.

  • Auto-Rickshaw

    Hire an auto-rickshaw from anywhere in Hampi for a round trip to Chakra Tirtha. Negotiate the fare before starting; it should cost around ₹200-₹300. The ride takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The auto-rickshaw driver will typically wait while you explore the site.

Unlock the Best of Chakra Tirtha

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Chakra Tirtha

Chakra Tirtha, also known as Chakra Tirtha Point, is a significant and picturesque location in Hampi, Karnataka. Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, near the Kodanda Rama Temple, it lies between Matanga Hill to the south and Rishyamukha Hill to the north. The name Chakratirtha translates to 'the sacred water body that swirls' in the local language, and the site is considered one of the holiest places in Hampi. According to legend, Chakra Tirtha is the very spot where Lord Shiva bestowed his powerful Chakra weapon upon Lord Vishnu. It is believed that on special occasions, the swirls in the river form images of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana. Pilgrims flock to this sacred site to take a dip in the Tungabhadra River before visiting nearby temples, especially the Kodanda Rama Temple. The riverbank features a large, flat rock adorned with carvings of Shiva Lingas and footprints in circular patterns, holding immense religious significance for devotees. Ancient stone pavilions stand near Chakra Tirtha, providing shelter for pilgrims. Visitors can also enjoy coracle rides on the river, offering unique views of the surroundings. However, swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and the swirling effect of the water. It's also advisable to avoid visiting during the monsoon season when the river's water level rises significantly.

Popular Experiences near Chakra Tirtha

Popular Hotels near Chakra Tirtha

Select Currency