So a bus ride took us back to Bangalore and a train ride saw us in Hampi. This is one of my favourite places in India and I would recommend anyone to visit this magical place.

The way to Hampi passes by 15th century ruins of the Vijayanagar city, set against a backdrop of granite boulders, green paddy fields and banana plantations. The contrast between the boulder mountains and the lush valleys is stunning. The boulders balance precariously on top of each other and you wonder how they were made and how they still stay up there! There is an abundance of greenery which makes this a very relaxing place.

We stayed in a lovely hotel where individual rooms were round huts. The restaurant overlooks the valleys with the mountains in the background. Bliss.

In the afternoon, we ventured out to take a break from the heat by swimming in the many lakes. Being responsible travellers we ensured that our shoulders and knees were covered whilst swimming. It didn't stop us being videoed though! The water was extremely refreshing and clean. To dry off we lay on the hot boulders and let the sun do it's work.

Following our dip, we trekked up 500 steps to another monkey temple to once again watch the sun set (a regular pattern in the trip!). The climb up was worth it. The view was amazing and highlighted what a magical place we were staying in, though we did interrupt a man dressed in white having his picture taken in various yoga poses- probably for a calendar or advertising. Having been disturbed, he soon dashed off.

Famous for its monkeys, typically we did not see any until climbing back down. Then they swarmed up the stairs. Remembering our friend's experience at the last monkey temple in Jaipur we were extremely cautious though. I think they were more concerned about making it back home to the temple before dark rather than attacking us!

It is hard to explain how amazing Hampi is. If I ever return to India this would be at the top of my list.