Visiting Hampi is like stepping beyond the veil of time. Every journey we make here feels like a return to something ancient, something sacred — a place where the earth tells stories and the rocks remember. With its Dali-esque boulder formations, deep terracotta earth tones, and clear cobalt skies, Hampi continues to inspire us — not just as designers, but as dreamers.

A Place of Pilgrimage, Myth, and Creative Energy

Located in Karnataka, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the heart of the grand Vijayanagara Empire. Today, it draws pilgrims, creatives, and travellers from all over the world. It’s a sacred site where Hindu mythology is etched into every stone — from the towering Virupaksha Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, to the mythical birthplace of Hanuman, the Monkey God.

Our first trip to Hampi was back in the early 2000s — one of our first adventures together. That journey laid the foundation for both our friendship and our brand, FARA (Fumie and Rachel’s Adventures!).

Exploring the Ruins of Hampi: A Designer’s Dream

What draws us most to Hampi, time and again, are the colours and textures — nature’s golden palette. The landscape is sculptural, bold and alive, filled with intricate stone carvings, forgotten temples, and ancient market streets. Climbing to the Hanuman Temple at sunset, perched on a hill with panoramic views, feels like ascending to the realm of the gods.

We often return here to shoot — the natural light at sunrise and sunset gives our photography a kind of otherworldly glow. The stillness, the space, the textures — all feed our creative spirit.

Hampi's raw, untamed beauty provides the perfect backdrop for our collections. The interplay of light and shadow across its ancient stones mirrors the textures and hues of our garments, making each photoshoot a harmonious blend of fashion and nature. Our latest collection, Nomadica, is a heartfelt homage to the spirit of Hampi. Each piece embodies the essence of wanderlust and the timeless allure of ancient landscapes. 

Things to Do in Hampi: From Temple Hopping to Coracle Rides

Whether you're a spiritual seeker, a creative nomad, or just someone looking for a soul-refreshing escape, there’s something in Hampi for you. Here are a few of our favourite ways to experience it:

• Cycle through the ruins at sunrise — the quiet is almost holy.

• Take a coracle ride across the Tungabhadra River — the boats look like giant upturned mushrooms!

• Climb boulders and channel your inner child — this place is a natural playground.

• Visit Laxmi the Elephant at the temple — a sweet encounter in a land where elephants once roamed with kings and gods.

• Watch the leela of Hanuman unfold through local storytelling, dance and sacred art.
  
  

A Sacred Pause: Why We Return to Hampi Again and Again

More than a destination, Hampi is a feeling. It’s a place where time slows, and you can reconnect — to the earth, to yourself, to spirit. It’s where creativity flows freely, and the presence of the divine feels just a breath away.

For us, Hampi is both muse and sanctuary — and we know we’ll keep returning, always seeking a little more of the magic.