While the ancient ruins of Hampi have captivated travellers for decades, a quieter, more serene counterpart is steadily gaining prominence on Karnataka's tourism map. A cluster of villages in the Kishkindha region, located within Gangavathi taluk of Koppal district, are now emerging as vital complementary hubs for visitors seeking an experience beyond the iconic monuments.
The Rising Appeal of Kishkindha's Countryside
These villages, steeped in the mythology of the Kishkindha kingdom from the Ramayana, offer a stark contrast to Hampi's grand stone architecture. Here, the draw is the lush, living landscape and immersive cultural practices. Tourists are increasingly drawn to the expansive green paddy fields that paint the countryside in vibrant hues, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and photography.
The shift in tourist interest highlights a growing trend where travellers look for holistic experiences that combine heritage with local life and natural beauty. The development was highlighted in a report dated 07 January 2026, indicating the region's recent and steady rise in popularity.
Sustaining Heritage Through Craft and Community
A key aspect of this emerging tourism circuit is the vibrant showcase of traditional artisanship. In the village of Anegundi, one of the key sites in this region, artisans are keeping ancient skills alive. They expertly craft a range of decorative and utility items from sustainable banana fibre, turning agricultural by-products into beautiful, eco-friendly products.
This initiative not only provides a unique attraction for visitors but also supports local economies and preserves indigenous knowledge. It represents a sustainable tourism model where cultural heritage directly benefits the community.
What This Means for Karnataka Tourism
The emergence of the Kishkindha villages as tourism destinations signifies a healthy diversification for the region. It helps in:
- Decongesting Hampi: By offering alternative destinations, pressure on the UNESCO World Heritage Site can be managed more effectively.
- Economic Spread: Tourism revenue is distributed across a wider geographical area within Gangavathi taluk, boosting local livelihoods.
- Enriched Visitor Experience: Tourists can now enjoy a more varied itinerary that includes world-famous ruins, serene rural landscapes, and hands-on cultural interactions.
As noted by observer Pramod Kulkarni, this trend is transforming the area into a more comprehensive tourism zone. The focus on villages like Anegundi underscores a successful blend of mythological significance, ecological beauty, and grassroots-level entrepreneurship, creating a new, compelling chapter for tourism in Karnataka beyond the well-trodden paths of Hampi.
