Dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, the main deity of the Vijayanagara rulers, the temple is an important pilgrimage centre and one of the main attractions of Hampi. Also known as Pampapati Temple, it has a 50-metre high tower at the entrance and displays beautiful architecture throughout. The miniature paintings on the ceilings make your visit worthwhile. Built in the beginning of the 7th century, it is one of the oldest functioning temples in India. The temple received a major overhaul and renovation at the beginning of the 19th century.