Hampi

Hampi is one of the coolest places I've seen on this trip. Its a small nothing of a town which is smack-dab in the middle of the ruins of the largest Hindu empire in Indian history. The air is the cleanest I've breathed in India, and the temperature and humidity is very pleasant. The terrain is a strange mix of rocky and jungle--there a times it reminded me of Utah, and time is reminded me of Panama.

For those who are history buffs, or have a pathaoligcal need to accomplish something daily, there are ruins for miles in all directions to explore. The terrain is extremely rocky, which tends to attract rock climbers who enjoy bouldering. Theres a lake to swim in close by and open roads to bike along. Its not the most exciting of places, but the atmosphere is extremely laid back, with lots of travelers staying for weeks just to hang out.

Anyway, this is a picture of the city center, which has a towering 7 story temple built centuries ago.