Of all the temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Hemakuta Temple complex is the most frequented one. The entire complex was once protected and surrounded by an ancient fort. Although the hill, over which the temples are located, is not the highest point in Hampi, but its slops offer a splendid view of the sprawling ruins site. It is one of the best places in Hampi to see the sunrise and sunset.

Myth Associated
As the legend goes, this is the place where Lord Shiva did penance before marrying a local girl Pampa. Siva was impressed by her dedication. On this occasion, it rained gold on the hill. 'Hema' in Sanskrit literally means gold, and therefore the place was called Hemakuta.

Thus, a number of temples in this area are dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Architecture
This marvellous site resembles a huge sheet of undulated rocks. The temples here have pyramid like roofs. Three temples in the complex are made perpendicular to each other facing a common hall.

The hill also has archways and pavilions. The most prominent temple here is the 'Virupaksha temple', located at the north. Apart from that, one can also find shrines of Sasivekalu Ganesha, Kadalekalu Ganesha, Lakshmi Narasimha, Badivilinga and Lord Krishna here.

The best part of the temple lies in its horizontal chain of floral motifs, which are carved around the outer walls of the temple.