Among the many attractions in Hampi, the Coracle Ride is definitely one of the must-do activities. It’s an adventurous and unique way to explore the area, giving you a different perspective on the landscape and its rich history.
There are two main points from where you can take the coracle ride. The first is near the heart of Hampi, just about a kilometer away from the iconic Virupaksha Temple. The second is from Sanapur Lake, located on the other side of Hampi. Initially, I had planned to experience the ride at Sanapur Lake, but our auto driver recommended doing it from the river near Hampi itself. His suggestion turned out to be the best choice.
The riverbed near Hampi is often flooded during the monsoon season due to water being released from the dam. However, this time, the water level was significantly lower, about 30 feet below its usual height, allowing us to witness some hidden gems that are usually submerged. This gave us a rare opportunity to see ancient caves, small temples carved into the rocks, and serene spots where sages (Rishi-Munis) once meditated for days in complete tranquility.
Normally, the water is deep, and there are even rumors that the river is home to crocodiles. While these might add a layer of thrill to the ride, the low water level on our trip revealed so many secret and spiritual locations that are typically hidden beneath the surface.
One of the most thrilling parts of the ride was when our coracle passed under a large rock that hung precariously low over the river. To get through, we had to lie flat in the coracle, an experience that was both exhilarating and slightly nerve-wracking. It felt like we were part of an ancient adventure, with the looming rock almost grazing our heads. I managed to capture this on video, and I’ll be posting it soon—it’s a moment you don’t want to miss.
The ride lasts about 45 minutes, and during that time, you pass by massive boulders that make Hampi’s landscape so iconic. The view from the river is breathtaking, offering a unique angle of the surrounding terrain. From the coracle, you can also see Anjaney Parvat, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman (Bajrang Bali).
Another highlight is the Lord Ram temple on the riverbank, which is unique for having an idol of Sugriva instead of Hanuman. Sugriva, as per the Ramayana, is said to have hidden in the nearby hills to escape his brother Vali. These mythological stories, shared by the helmsman in broken Hindi, added a fascinating layer to the entire experience.
Overall, the coracle ride was a perfect mix of adventure, history, and nature. It’s something that cannot be missed while in Hampi—an experience that allows you to soak in the beauty and spirituality of this ancient land in a way that walking or driving simply cannot offer. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for some thrill, this ride has it all.
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