Hampi, the southern state of Karnataka, has long been a tourist destination due to its historically rich architecture and landmarks. Due to its rise in popularity amongst travellers in the last decade, accommodations have sprung up all over the city. A cluster of guesthouses, hostels and small hotels snake their way along the streets of the main town. When you cross the river, the same is seen, but venture a kilometre (0.6 mile) from the river crossing, away from the hustle and bustle of the town and find yourself amongst the quaint, family-run solitude of Murali Guest House. Featuring adequate rooms with cheap prices due to its location, Murali will even pick you up and drop you in his rickshaw, free of charge, from the river crossing if you call him beforehand. With a family-run restaurant, chickens and pheasants in the yard and all amenities on offer or for sale here, you’ll find the prices of everything here are much better than the overpriced restaurants in town.
The location is perfect for those looking to get away
Located on the outskirts of the town, closer to some of the temples across the river from Hampi Bazaar, Murali Guest House is a unique hostel in its location. Bordering just outside the tourist zone, it’s constantly bombarded with government threats to overrun the place as they want to turn it into a hotel, don’t be surprised to find the facade of the place run-down. But, as soon as you enter and walk past the many chickens and pheasants that adorn the walkway, you’ll find a comfortable seating area with cushions, tables and mattresses laid out for you to relax in as you meet and greet every member of the family. Murali himself will probably do the introducing and you’ll get a quick overview of the place and maybe an introduction to one of the few long-term travellers staying here.
The cheap, fair prices match the rooms
The prices on offer for the rooms can’t be beaten in Hampi. A budget double room is 400 INR (6 USD) and the standard double room with an added terrace is double the price at 800 INR (12 USD) a night. With free Wi-Fi, attached bathrooms in the more expensive rooms and a clean, accessible shared toilet at all times, it’s a very fair and moderate price. If there are any qualms with the pricing, Murali and his family are always willing to negotiate. The rooms themselves are basic with nothing more than a bed, a fan and a cupboard for your belongings. Mosquito nets drape the beds in each room.
The ambiance, food and casualness of the place will entice you
There’s free Wi-Fi available throughout the property. It’s also decently fast, a rarity in Hampi. Lounge out in the common area and let Murali’s mother, Bhavani, ask you several questions about your life while cooking up a feast. With an extensive menu from chicken curry to dosa available, her coffee and chai in the mornings are a must try, especially for the low, low price of 30 INR (0.50 USD) a glass. When you want to go sightseeing, talk to Murali for renting a scooter or bicycle. He can also offer his services as a guide or assist you in finding one if he isn’t available for the day. All further travels can also be booked through the establishment.
Murali Guest House is a quaint little family-run place that deserves more
A small family-run guesthouse, Murali’s is the kind of place that makes you miss your own home. Homely, relaxed vibes with quiet, serene nights, you’re bound to meet other travellers in the common areas here. Compared to all the other establishments in town, Murali’s offers you the kind of prices perfect for those on a budget and the much-needed serenity if you’re tired of listening to people play music or watch movies loudly into the night, a common occurrence in most establishments. It’s rare to regret your stay at Murali’s.
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