Next is the Lotus Mahal, a symmetrical open-air pavilion which is one of the best preserved sites in Hampi.

BBC: Escape from Goa: Hampi and the ruins of Vijayanagara

The comparison between what must have been and what exists today is a constant part of the experience in Hampi.

BBC: Escape from Goa: Hampi and the ruins of Vijayanagara

Hampi had been designated a world heritage site by UNESCO, the UN agency concerned with preservation of historic sites.

FORBES: Trouble in Paradise: Indian Demolitions in Ancient City Send Tourists, Businesses Seeking Shelter

The best way to quickly grasp the magnitude of Hampi is to hike Mantanga hill, preferably at sunrise for the best views.

BBC: Escape from Goa: Hampi and the ruins of Vijayanagara

The ultimate is Hampi, once the capital of the rich, powerful Vijayanagar empire and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site: 16 miles of ruined temples and palaces from the 14th century.

FORBES: Photograph: Andre Fanthome (RAAS)

In Hampi, the sunset is a spectator sport, attracting decent crowds to admire as the surrounding hills and boulders transform from washed out creams and greys into warm reds and oranges.

BBC: Escape from Goa: Hampi and the ruins of Vijayanagara

Anyone can receive a blessing from the temple elephant, Lakshmi. (After you give her a 100-rupee note, she whacks you gratefully on the head.) But train passengers have a special advantage: You go back at night to Hampi's central Vittala Temple complex, a compound of intricately sculpted halls with rows of pillars and the central stone chariot that gives the train its name.

FORBES: Photograph: Andre Fanthome (RAAS)