A first-of-its-kind report has underscored the urgent need for restoration across nearly all ASI-protected monuments at the World Heritage Site of Hampi, setting a roadmap for priority conservation efforts over the next decade.
Jointly prepared by the Hampi Circle of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and Goa-based Samvardhan Heritage Solutions, the report provides photographic documentation of each monument, examining structural integrity, weather impact, and previous restoration interventions.
Spread across 4,187 hectares in the Tungabhadra basin, Hampi—the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire—houses around 1,600 monuments, including temples, shrines, forts, and water structures. Of these, 57 are protected by the ASI and are being given top priority in conservation efforts.
Among these, nine monuments are classified under the ‘major concern’ category, indicating severe structural instability needing urgent repairs. These include the Vijaya Vittala temple complex, Veerupaksha temple complex, Krishna temple complex, Ugra Narasimha, Hemakuta hills, Achyutaraya temple, and Lotus Mahal temple complex. Eleven monuments fall under the ‘moderate concern’ category, which includes structures showing signs of decay or significant weathering, requiring close monitoring. The rest are placed under ‘minor concern’, where visual disruptions may evolve into structural issues over time, necessitating regular maintenance.
Over a two-month period, experts alongside ASI officials evaluated each monument’s condition, material vulnerabilities, environmental stressors, and any alterations. “This study enables us to prioritise our conservation efforts, as most monuments in Hampi need some degree of attention,” said Nikhil Das, superintending archaeologist, ASI Hampi Circle.
Key threats identified include mining, quarrying, tourism, heavy rainfall, and unchecked vegetation growth. “While the monuments are currently in a presentable state, timely intervention is essential to maintain them,” said Varad Sabnis of Samvardhan Heritage Solutions. Financial constraints prevent the simultaneous restoration of all structures, making the report crucial for ASI’s strategic planning.
In June 2024, reporters had reported that the Hampi ASI Circle was grappling with fund shortages, hindering restoration and conservation activities.