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Imagine the silence of a 14th century empire shattered by the rhythmic beats of drums and the glow of a million lights. From February 13-15, the UNESCO ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire are all set to awaken for the Hampi Utsav 2026. This year is an historic one for Hampi as the record breaking 50 km Corridor of Lights will transform the rugged landscape into a glowing path of heritage. So, whether you are someone who is drawn by the majestic elephant processions or the world class classical dance under the stars, Hampi isn't just a destination this February, but a time machine for you. Here’s how you can step into the golden age of India at the Hampi Utsav 2026.
The spirit of the Hampi Utsav
Commonly referred to as the Vijaya Utsav, Hampi Utsav is a high octane celebration of the cultural and architectural peak of the Vijayanagara Empire. While the various other modern festivals often solely focus on entertainment, this event is a bridge to the 14th century that is designed to recreate the Golden Era of Emperor Krishnadevaraya.
For three days, the quiet borders of this UNESCO World Heritage site transform into a living museum. Traditionally, the festival serves as a tribute to the region’s artistic legacy, and features the historical Vasantotsava or the Spring Festival, along with the Nada Utsava that showcases the pride of the Kannada culture through classical Carnatic music and Bharatnatyam and is an event that is also recognised as State Festival by the Government of Karnataka.
The Hampi Utsav is one of the few places in the world where you can watch cutting edge laser shows and Bollywood performances directly against the backdrop of the 7th century shrines like the Virupaksha Temple.
Hampi Utsav 2026
The 2026 edition of the Hampi Utsav dates are from February 13th to 15th, and this time it is set to be the most technologically ambitious and visually stunning in the festival’s history. The Hampi Utsav 2026 venue is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi itself in Karnataka, with the Government of Karnataka aiming to blend 14th century grandeur with 21st century innovation.
What to expect at the Hampi Utsav 2026
There is a lot to look forward to this year at the Hampi Utsav, here are some of the key highlights of the festival you should know.
1. The 50 km Corridor of Lights
A standout feature of the festival at Hampi this year is the massive 50 km illumination network. Unlike previous years where the lighting was limited to the ruins, a continuous Golden Trail now stretches from the Vijayanagara District Office in Hosapete, through Kamalpur, and all the way to the Virupaksha Temple.
To get the best views, take a drive through the Hosapete-Hampi stretch at night and witness the public squares, railway access points, and lakefronts glowing in the celebratory hues.
2. The Shobha Yatra and Jambu Savari
Watch the City of Victory reclaim its title during the Shobha Yatra, this grand cultural processions features decorated elephants with majestic tuskers leading the way in royal finery. You also get to witness the Janapada Kalavahini, which features over a hundred folk troupes from across the state of Karnataka performing the Dollu Kunitha or the drum dance and Veeragase.
3. Multi-stage cultural extravaganza
Performances are spread across several mega stages, including the Gayathri Peetha and Hampi Vasanta Mantapa. With classical and contemporary performances both being a part of the Hampi Utsav 2026, expect a mix of world class Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music alongside Bollywood mega nights that will feature national icons.
The Vaibhav show, which is also an integral part of the festival, uses the monoliths as a backdrop to narrate the rise and fall of the empire through high tech laser projections.
4. Rural sports and adventure
To engage the younger crowds, the Hampi Utsav 2026 has introduced a variety of competitive events like traditional feats that feature stone lifting, wrestling, and other rural sports. This year’s festival also features special helicopter tours and hot air balloon rides for a bird’s eye view of the illuminated ruins.
Essential travel tips for the Hampi Utsav 2026
Attending the Hampi Utsav is an exhilarating experience, but since the festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, navigating your way through it all requires a bit of strategy. Here’s how you can make your trip a seamless one.
1. Getting there
The nearest railhead is the Hospet Junction (HPT), which is just 13 km away from Hampi, in case you are travelling via rail. It is well connected to cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Goa via trains like the Hampi Express.
If you are travelling via air, the closest airport is the Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (JSW) in Vidyanagar, which is approximately 40 km away. You can also alternatively use Hubbali (HBX) for more flight options.
The KSRTC operates special Utsav Buses from some of the major cities in Karnataka during the festival dates, which you can consider for road travel.
2. Local navigation and parking
During the Utsav, private four wheelers are usually prohibited from entering the core ruins area. So, you must park your vehicle at the designated lots near the Hampi Arch and use the government operated Electric Green Buses to reach the different stages. Renting a moped or a bicycle is the best way to move between smaller monuments, however, you must be prepared for the dusty roads ahead!