Introduction
Anjanadri Hill (also known as Anjaneya/Anjanadri Betta) is a hill above paddy and boulder fields on the other side of the Tungabhadra of Hampi. Sacred as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, it is also the best sunrise vantage point of Hampi, with 360 degrees panorama, clean stone steps with railings and a small temple on top.
The ascent is not long, but sharp; the first rays of day overflow the mounds of boulders and the banana plantations and the river shines well down below. This guide will provide you with the amount of steps, what happens to parking, precise queue strategy in case of the sunrise, and a realistic picture of the crowds.
Getting There and Best Time
Base area: Anegundi side of the river, approximately 4-6km (about 20-25km by road) south of the village square of Anegundi, and 4km north of the village square of Hampi (loop over road bridges). Approach roads are narrow though well surfaced.
Reaching from Hampi:
- Car/biking: Cross to the Anegundi side on the Talarighatta/new Tungabhadra bridge (enquire your host/taxi about the latest and most appropriate one). Then take the indications to Anjanadri/Anjaneya Hill. Park in the small base lots in 45-60 minutes before the sun comes up.
- By auto/taxi: Autos will drive you down to the bottom and wait (fix fare and waiting time) at Hampi or Anegundi.
Best months: October-March: crispy skies and mild mornings. April May is hot, but the sunrise is comfortable early in the morning. June-September: the clouds are dramatic and the drizzle may come occasionally- good in the moody photo but the steps may get wet.
Typical sunrise times at Hampi latitude:
- Nov–Feb: 6:30–6:50 AM
- Mar–May: 5:55–6:20 AM
- Jun–Sep: 6:00–6:25 AM
Quick Planner: Distance, Time and Typical Costs
| Hampi Bazaar → Anjanadri base (by road) | 20–25 km; 35–50 mins | Via bridge to Anegundi side |
| Anegundi square → base | 4–6 km; 10–15 mins | Narrow village roads |
| Steps count | About 575 steps (±10) | Base board varies by source; allow rests |
| Climb time (one way) | 18–30 mins (fit); 35–45 mins (easy pace) | Start 45–60 mins before sunrise |
| Parking (car/bike) | ₹20–50 | Small, fills on weekends/festivals |
| Footwear deposit | ₹2–10 (optional) | Leave at temple entrance if entering sanctum |
| Temple/entry fee | Free | Donations optional |
| Water/snacks (base stalls) | ₹20–100 | UPI widely accepted; carry small cash |
| Auto/taxi from Hampi (return) | Auto ₹800–1,200; cab ₹1,800–3,000 | Fix waiting charge for 2–3 hrs |
Top Spots and What You’ll See
| Spot | What you’ll see/do | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| East terrace (top) | First light over banana fields and river | 15 mins before to 15 mins after sunrise |
| South‑east corner | Long valley layers, mist bands | Blue hour |
| West terraces | Golden light hitting boulder hills | 10–30 mins after sunrise |
| Mid‑landing mandapa | Framed arch with steps | Pre‑dawn |
| Temple courtyard | Devotional photos (outside only) | After sunrise |
Prices, Timings and Safety Notes
- Hours: Opened to the devotees since early morning up to evening; specific hours of sanctum are different depending on the puja. Access to terraces is normally available during sunrise.
- Fees: No entry fee. Footwear and parking counters: accept in small bills.
- Lighting: There are some step lights, but it is dark before daylight–bring along a small torch/headlamp.
- Monkeys: Typical close-landings. Keep food Simply keep food inside bags; do not tease or feed.
- Footwear: You may use shoes on the steps; take them off at the entrance of the temple in case you are entering the shrine.
Crowd Pattern: Time of Day and Season
| Day/Season | Pre‑dawn (5:30–6:10) | Sunrise (6:00–6:45) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays (Oct–Mar) | Light–moderate | Moderate |
| Weekends (Oct–Mar) | Moderate | Heavy |
| Summer (Apr–May) | Light | Moderate |
| Monsoon (Jun–Sep) | Light (if drizzling) | Light–moderate (clear mornings) |
| Festivals (Hanuman Jayanti/holidays) | Moderate–heavy | Heavy |
Food, Transport and Practical Tips
During season, base stalls are selling chai, bananas and water, starting at 5:30AM-6:00AM. UPI operates during most of the days, although they carry ₹100-₹200 change just in case of signal breakdown. When you are driving yourself, fill up the night before and there are no petrol pumps on the base.
In the family case, one person is to be the pace leader and come back to broader landings in order not to block the path. The photographer must maintain kit light (a body and a lens and mini tripod) and carry a small torch so that they do not blind climbers.
Do’s and Don’ts for First‑Timers
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Reach the base 45–60 mins before sunrise; climb at your own steady pace | Don’t block steps for long photo stops—move to landings |
| Carry water, a small torch and wear shoes with grip | Don’t feed monkeys or carry open snacks |
| Keep hands free—use a sling/daypack for camera and bottle | Don’t lean over parapets or climb railings for selfies |
| Use UPI but keep small cash for parking/tea | Don’t fly drones without permissions |
| Dress modestly; remove footwear before entering the sanctum | Don’t play loud music; sunrise is a quiet hour |
FAQs
How many steps are there to Anjanadri Hill?
- Approximately 575 steps (the figures on boards are slightly different). The average climber can get up in 18 to 30 minutes; the elderly can take 35-45 minutes resting.
Does the base have sufficient parking?
- There are two small lots/roadside bays that deal with cars and bikes. They are full at the weekends and in the morning of the festivals–either early or by auto.
Will I be able to see sunrise when the temple is closed?
- Yes. The terraces/outdoor spaces are open; there are no sanctum time considerations on the view.
Are toilets available?
- There are basic washrooms available on/around the base stalls. Not a one in the steps or on the upper terraces.
Is it safe for kids and elders?
- Yes when you move slow, and you are holding the railing as well as you are not going through crowds. Have children near handicaps and landings.
Is the ferry at old Hampi?
- There are seasonal and safety order crossings; the majority of the visitors cross via the road bridge. Inquire of your host what the status is.
Conclusion
Anjanadri hill is impossible to beat to have the best Hampi sunrise, the hill is short, safe to climb, has a great view and a soft temple feeling. Arrange your morning at 45 to 60 minutes lead time, 575 odd steps, small-cash parking, and a mere torch. The cool days of the week beginning are enchanted; weekends are also if early enough. Hush it, make it easy, and the boulders and the banana-fields will take care of the rest.
