Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, Hampi

The Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace is the place to stay for anyone wishing to explore the ancient city of Hampi in Southern India’s Karnataka state.

• Being in close proximity to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The hotel’s design cues, taken from the architecture of the 14th-century Vijayanagara Empire
• The Ayurvedic wellness therapies on offer at the hotel spa

Up until a few years ago, the ancient archeological complex of Hampi was notoriously hard to reach—it was only accessible by car or train from Bangalore, which was at least an eight-hour journey. Now, it's possible to take a one-hour direct flight from Hyderabad or Bangalore to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, which includes over 1,000 well-preserved stone monuments (Hindu temples, forts and more) that date back to the 14th century, all set within a striking and austere landscape of massive granite boulders that were formed 3 to 4 billion years ago.

For those wishing to explore these ruins, including ancient temples that are still used actively by locals, the recently built Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace offers the nicest accommodations in the area. The location couldn’t be more convenient at just 20 minutes from Hampi’s entrance. Inspired by its surroundings, the palace-style property has 45 spacious rooms, two pools, a spa and two restaurants. Our favorite accommodations are the generously proportioned Jal Mahal Suites, as each one has a private pool. The design of the property takes its cues from its surrounding history, with scalloped archways, rich textiles and chunky wooden furniture.

Privately guided touring is offered through the hotel, and the schedule is reminiscent of a safari lodge, because it’s typically very hot in the middle of the day. Excursions to the ruins are best done in the morning and late afternoon to early evening, while the middle of the day is for enjoying the spa’s Ayurvedic treatments and the infinity pool with its far-reaching vistas.

History buffs, archeology enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to discover the ancient city of Hampi.