Ballari: The searing summer heat – 43 degrees Celsius – or inadequate infrastructure are no deterrent for thousands of domestic and foreign tourists, who are flocking to the ruins of Hampi, the 15th century capital of the Vijayanagar empire proving it is still a much sought after destination. In fact, there has been a steady increase in the number of tourists visiting the UNESCO stamped world heritage site in the last six years.
Apart from the protected 56 monuments spread over 25 sq km in Hampi, the area can boast of the Daroji sloth bear sanctuary, river otter sanctuary in the backwaters of river Tungabhadra and the serene hillocks of Anegundi. According to sources in the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) a total of 3.50 lakh tourists, of whom 23,419 were foreign nationals, visited Hampi between April 2015 and March 2016. The official figures would be higher if children below 15 (for whom entry is free) and domestic tourists who visit Hampi as part of a pilgrimage, are taken into consideration. The tourist season commences in September and ends by March. From October onwards, the inflow of foreign tourists gradually increases till March and starts dropping from April.
Dr Prakash C. Nayakanda, deputy superintending archeologist, ASI, Hampi mini circle said the beggars' menace which was rampant in Hampi earlier, has now been curbed and basic amenities have been provided to tourists. "Foreign tourists, particularly from European countries feel safe when they visit Hampi. The' safety' factor is attracting more foreigners, who earlier preferred Cambodia and surrounding countries", he added.
According to sources, the revenue for 2015-16 from ticket sale was Rs 90.30 lakh, of which Rs 58.44 lakh was from foreign tourists. The revenue is likely to go up in 2016-17 as the Centre has hiked the fee from April. Rudolph Cooper, a tourist from the Netherlands, said foreign tourists who visit Goa, make it a point to visit Hampi too because of its historic significance.
