The Union Culture Ministry and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have simplified the rules for photography in and around Hampi, a popular tourist destination in Karnataka, by removing camera charges for tourists. Previously, a nominal charge of Rs 50 per camera was levied at selected monuments, including the Vijaya Vittala temple complex. However, permission is still required for photographers who want to use tripods and drones. The decision to remove camera charges was made during the recent visit of Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Ganjendra Singh Shekawat to Hampi, with the aim of encouraging more people to take photos of monuments and sites.
The removal of camera charges is expected to boost tourism in Hampi, which is known for its heritage photography, nature photography, couple photo shoots, and movie shoots. According to a senior tourism official from Ballari, Hampi is a sought-after destination for various types of photography, and the removal of camera charges will make it more accessible to tourists. The official noted that the minister’s idea was to encourage people to take photos of monuments and sites for their memories, without any restrictions from local authorities.
While camera charges have been removed, special permission is still required for movie shooting and using drones over Hampi. A deposit of Rs 1 lakh per day is levied for movie shooting, and a vigil team from ASI will accompany the movie team to ensure that no harm is caused to any monument. For drone usage, a deposit of Rs 50,000 is levied, and the ASI team will inspect the drone flying areas to ensure that no damage is caused to delicate monuments. There are also several no-drone zones in Hampi where old and delicate monuments are present.