Coming Home To History: My Journey Through Hampi | Lifestyle News

Living like royalty amid the ancient ruins, Evolve Back, Hampi is where history, heritage, and luxury come together in perfect harmony.

Any time something deteriorates or gets significantly worse, people have a tendency to say, “Things have gone south.”

While the phrase itself carries negative connotations, I, for one, was delighted when things went south for me recently, quite literally and took me to the heart of Hampi.

As soon as I landed at Bengaluru airport, a chauffeured car was waiting to take me to the resort. Soon enough, the three of us , me, the driver, and the lovely snack basket the resort team had so thoughtfully placed in the car began our six-hour journey to the site.

Hidden amidst the ancient ruins and majestic boulders of Hampi, the property feels less like a resort and more like a palace straight out of a history textbook. The moment you arrive, you sense a seamless blend of history and opulence where the grandeur of a bygone era meets the comfort and refinement of modern-day luxury.

And once you’re done sipping the delicious welcome drink they offer, you realize that the architecture here is its first love letter to the past. Every archway, corridor, and courtyard is inspired by the royal palaces of the illustrious 14th-century Vijayanagara dynasty. When night falls and you walk across the sprawling, lamp-lit property, it’s easy to imagine yourself as a guest of ancient kings.

Divided into four different palaces and suites, Nivasa, Nilaya, Zenana, and Jal Mahal, each offers a unique degree of grandeur. And if you wish to dive deep into Hampi’s glorious past, the resort organizes guided tours across this UNESCO World Heritage site that will leave you nothing short of awestruck. Oh, and if you’re feeling thirsty after that long walk through history’s boulevard, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by a mini picnic waiting for you when you return to the car!

No visit to Hampi is complete without the serene coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River. The feeling of being surrounded by the soothing sound of water, with historical relics adorning either side of the riverbank, is nothing short of mesmerizing. As was the private dinner they arranged for us beside our very own pool. Not to brag, but I did make quite a few relatives jealous by sending hundreds of photos on the family WhatsApp group.

The food here is a feast for both the senses and the soul. The resort houses multiple restaurants offering a mix of local, Indian, and international cuisines, all prepared with impeccable finesse. The highlight, however, is Tuluva, which serves traditional dishes inspired by the royal Vijayanagara kitchens. And while the food on its own is lip-smacking, it’s made even more memorable by the impeccable hospitality. The staff operates with a grace that’s a perfect blend of professionalism and heartfelt warmth. Think of it as a daycare for adults where you’re pampered around the clock!

In every sense, this is not just a stay, it’s a journey back in time. It’s where history whispers through the corridors, where luxury feels soulful, and where every moment invites you to pause, breathe, and live like royalty. And the icing on the cake? The perfectly Instagrammable content it gives you to light up your social media feed.