Hospet is a historic town located in the Bellary district of Karnataka. It is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River and is known for its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi. Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is known for its impressive ruins and temples. Hospet is also known for its iron ore mines, which are an important source of income for the region. The town has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several historic temples, including the Virupaksha Temple, which dates back to the 7th century.
Hospet is a city located in the Bellary district of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. The city is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, and it is surrounded by hills and forests. Hospet is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes.
History
Hospet has a rich history dating back to the ancient times. It was an important center of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled the region from the 14th to the 16th century. The city was founded by Krishna Deva Raya, the greatest ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire. During his reign, Hospet became a center of trade, commerce, and culture. The city was also known for its architectural wonders, including the magnificent Virupaksha Temple, the Lotus Mahal, and the Vittala Temple.
However, in 1565, the Vijayanagara Empire was defeated by the combined forces of the Deccan sultanates, and the city was left in ruins. It was later rebuilt by the local rulers and came under the control of the Adil Shahi dynasty. The city was then ruled by the Mughals and the Marathas before coming under the British rule in the 19th century.
Geography
Hospet is located at 15.27°N 76.37°E and covers an area of 16.22 square kilometers. It is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, which flows through the city. The city is surrounded by hills and forests, which provide a beautiful backdrop to the city. The nearest airport to Hospet is the Jindal Vijaynagar Airport, which is located about 35 kilometers from the city.
Demographics
As of the 2011 Census of India, Hospet had a population of 206,159, of which 104,924 were male and 101,235 were female. The city has a literacy rate of 76.16%, with male literacy rate at 82.55% and female literacy rate at 69.54%. The city is home to people from various religions, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Jains.
Economy
Hospet has a diverse economy, with agriculture, mining, and tourism being the major sectors. The city is known for its rich deposits of iron ore, which are mined by several companies in the region. The agriculture sector in Hospet is also thriving, with the cultivation of crops such as paddy, sugarcane, and cotton.
Tourism is also an important source of income for the city, with thousands of tourists visiting the city every year to explore its rich history and culture. The city has several hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions that cater to the needs of the tourists.
Culture
Hospet has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, music, dance, and festivals. The city is home to several temples, including the Virupaksha Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important temples in the region. The temple is known for its intricate carvings, sculptures, and paintings.
The city is also known for its music and dance forms, including the Dollu Kunitha, a traditional dance form of the region. The city celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Hampi Utsav, which is a three-day cultural festival that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.
State :
Karnataka
How to Reach Hospet
Complete List of Tehsils in Hospet District, Karnataka