Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, Hampi – A magical escape.

 

Encapsulated by regal architecture, luxe, spacious rooms, an enchanting infinity pool, exquisite dining, a rejuvenating spa, impeccable service and unforgettable experiences around magical Hampi, the Evolve Back Resorts Kamalapura Palace, Hampi redefines luxury.

Styled like a palace, the royal and elegant interiors of this spectacular property are reminiscent of the 14^th century Vijayanagar empire of which Hampi was the capital city.

 

 

 

With intricately carved stone arches, a fort-like entrance and mesmerizing architecture, this property is a grand structure mirrored on beautiful lotus ponds that leaves you spellbound from the moment you enter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There is strong attention to detail in every aspect of the Evolve back Hampi experience, right from the warm welcome to the impressively designed rooms to the delicious food to the tailor-made experiences around Hampi. The magnificence and grandeur of the Vijayanagar empire is well integrated into every aspect of this wonderful property.

We were completely bowled over by our memorable experience at Evolve Back Hampi which I will describe in detail below.

 

The Stay :

After a traditional, warm welcome we were escorted to our magnificent room, the Nivasa suite that was utterly luxurious, spacious and opulent. This resplendent room comes with its own private jacuzzi, a massive balcony overlooking the infinity pool, a cosy four-poster king-sized bed, a roomy bathroom complete with a bathtub and all modern amenities.

 

 

 

 

What we also loved about this stunning room is how sustainable it was and how they had substituted all plastic items and toiletries with glass and cloth. This is very commendable.

Whether it was relaxing in the comfort of our suite after a long day of exploring the UNESCO world heritage city of Hampi or just staying in and enjoying their lovely in-room dining or relaxing in the private jacuzzi on a cool winter night, the Nivasa offered the highest level of luxury and comfort.

 

Dining :

 

Evolve Back Hampi offers exquisite dining experiences at their all-day dining restaurant Tuluva and at their speciality evening restaurant Bahamani.

Tuluva has a wide, multicuisine menu from all corners of the world and is situated by the pool with both indoor and outdoor seating areas surrounded by the grand property. While we enjoyed their club sandwich, pasta and North Indian selections, what we will remember forever is their Vijaynagar thali.

 

 

With lost, rich recipes from the Vijaynagar empire, this thali offers delicious preparations with influences of North Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh cuisines. This is an absolute must-try in Tuluva.

They also have a vast, multicuisine buffet breakfast that you can enjoy every morning before heading out to explore Hampi. Sitting by the pool in the lap of nature, with a heart-warming breakfast makes for a great start to the day.

 

 

In the evenings, step into their flamboyant Lotus Mahal for dinner at Bahamani, a speciality evening restaurant serving rich, Nawabi cuisine over candlelit  tables and romantic low lights, making for a beautiful experience. We loved the almond soup, kebabs and Awadhi curries here.

 

Spa :

Rejuvenate your mind and body at Vaidyasala, their Ayurvedic spa, surrounded by lovely lotus ponds on all sides.

 

 

Situated in the Lotus Mahal, the Vaidyasala offers complete peace and solace while also reinvigorating your body with dedicated, handcrafted ayurvedic treatments to make you feel relaxed.

We experienced their signature full body ayurvedic massage with two trained masseuses craft fully working every muscle using natural coconut oils. This was followed by a steam, shower and some green tea surrounded by the gorgeous lotus ponds.

 

 

We highly recommend a visit to Vaidyasala when in Evolve Back Hampi.

 

Experiences in Hampi :

A visit to Evolve Back Hampi is incomplete without exploring the mesmerizing ruins, splendid temples, gorgeous sunsets and more in the UNESCO world heritage site of Hampi.

Evolve Back Hampi offers tailor-made, guided small group tours to the various sights in Hampi where you can experience this gorgeous place to its fullest.

 

We first embarked on the Virupaksha Trail that led us to the beautiful, centuries-old Virupaksha temple which is still active after hundreds of years. Encapsulated by a mix of traditional South Indian temple architecture and 14^th century intricately carved ceilings and pillars, this temple is an absolute must-visit. You can also meet Laxmi, the temple elephant who may give you her blessings if you’re lucky.

The walk to Virupaksha was marked with many other small temples, ruins of old markets, stone pillars and more who’s significance is explained by the local historian on board the tour.

 

 

That evening, we also went on the Tungabhadra trek and experienced one of the best sunsets of our lives on the Tungabhadra river, surrounded by rolling hills and giant, ancient boulders. Walking along the banks of this mesmerizing river, surrounded by pure natural beauty, you will feel one with nature as the golden rays of the setting sun engulf your soul.

Here you can also ride on a round, traditional coracle over the river which is a beautiful experience.

 

 

The next day, we embarked on the Raya trail which will give you a glimpse into life in 14^th century Hampi. Here you can see the resplendent Lotus Mahal (part of the queens quarters), the huge elephant stables of the ancient times, the massive queen’s bath and more.

 

 

Last but not the least is the Vitthalapura Walk which you absolutely cannot miss. Here you can see the world-famous Hampi stone chariot, ancient musical pillars, old Hampi markets and magnificent ruins. The historic significance of each structure is well explained by the Evolve Back Hampi historian and the whole experience is culturally enriching.

 

 

These experiences around Hampi will make you fall in love with it and come back again and again to explore this unique land. Stay tuned for a separate blog on things to do in Hampi.

 

Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace Hampi is truly an exemplary property offering unmatched luxury, We had a truly spectacular experience that will remain in our hearts forever.

 

For more info click here. For reservations contact : +91 80 4618 4444

How to get here :

From Mumbai, we took a flight to Hyderabad and then to Vijayanagar airport from where the property can arrange a pickup and drop. This is the quickest way to get to Hampi but there are also many options by train and bus from all over the country.

Cost per night of the Nivasa Suite: Approximately Rs 20,000 + taxes (will vary as per dates and availability).

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