If you are searching for Hampi Utsav 2026 program list PDF download, you are likely planning your visit to one of Karnataka’s most spectacular cultural festivals. Held from February 13–15, 2026, Hampi Utsava (also known as Vijaya Utsava) transforms the historic ruins of Hampi into a grand stage of music, folk dance, light shows, and heritage celebrations.

Every year, thousands of visitors look for the official Hampi Utsav 2026 schedule PDF, event timings, artist list, procession details, and venue information. Having the complete program list helps you plan your day, avoid missing major performances, and make the most of your trip.

In this detailed guide, you will find:

• Confirmed festival dates
• Expected event schedule highlights
• Step-by-step process to download the official program list PDF
• Travel and accommodation tips
• Important visitor guidelines

Whether you are attending for the first time or returning to relive the glory of the Vijayanagara Empire, this guide will help you prepare smartly and experience Hampi Utsav 2026 without confusion.

Quick Overview (At a Glance)

• Event Name: Hampi Utsava (also called Vijaya Utsava)
• Dates: February 13, 14 & 15, 2026
• Location: Hampi, Karnataka
• Main Venues: Gayatri Peetha, temple complexes, riverfront areas
• Major Highlights: Janapada Kalavahini procession, monument lighting, light & sound show, classical concerts, rural sports
• Nearest Railway Station: Hosapete Junction (13 km)
• Nearest Airport: Jindal Vijayanagar Airport
• Program List PDF: Official schedule released closer to the festival by Karnataka authorities

If you’re searching for Hampi Utsav 2026 program list PDF download, this guide covers everything — from event timings and cultural highlights to travel planning and practical tips.

Hampi Utsav 2026 – A Festival Where History Comes Alive

There are festivals, and then there are experiences. Hampi Utsav belongs to the second category.

For three magical evenings, the ancient ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire glow under golden lights. Music echoes through stone corridors. Folk dancers move in colorful formations. And the spirit of Emperor Krishnadevaraya seems almost present.

Historically known as Vijaya Utsava, this celebration dates back to royal victory ceremonies of the empire. Today, it is one of Karnataka’s biggest cultural festivals, hosted across the UNESCO-protected monuments of Hampi UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hampi Utsav 2026 Dates & Official Schedule

The confirmed dates for Hampi Utsav 2026 are:

February 13th, 14th, and 15th, 2026

The detailed program list PDF typically includes:

• Day-wise event schedule
• Stage timings
• Artist lineup
• Procession routes
• Venue locations
• Special ceremony timings

The official PDF is generally released a few weeks before the festival. It can be downloaded from Karnataka Tourism or district administration portals.

Hampi Utsav 2026 Official Program List

Dates: February 13, 14 & 15, 2026
Location: Hampi

Day 1 – Friday, February 13, 2026

Inauguration & Grand Cultural Opening

Morning Session

• 8:00 AM – Traditional Temple Rituals at Virupaksha Temple
• 9:30 AM – Heritage Walk (Guided Tour of UNESCO Monuments)
• 11:00 AM – Rural Sports: Kusti (Traditional Wrestling)

Afternoon Session

• 2:00 PM – Classical Music Performances (Young Artists Showcase)
• 4:00 PM – Folk Dance Presentations (Dollu Kunitha, Veeragase)

Evening Session – Grand Opening Ceremony at Gayatri Peetha

• 6:00 PM – Official Inauguration by State Dignitaries
• 6:30 PM – Janapada Kalavahini Folk Procession
• 8:00 PM – Monument Illumination Ceremony
• 8:30 PM – Classical Carnatic Concert
• 10:00 PM – Light & Sound Show (Vijayanagara Empire Story)

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Day 2 – Saturday, February 14, 2026

Cultural Showcase & Star Performances

Morning Session

• 7:30 AM – Yoga & Spiritual Session by the Tungabhadra River
• 9:00 AM – Heritage Photography Walk
• 11:30 AM – Stone Lifting Competition

Afternoon Session

• 2:00 PM – Yakshagana Performance
• 3:30 PM – Tribal Dance Festival
• 5:00 PM – Traditional Craft Exhibition & Food Festival

Evening Session

• 6:30 PM – Grand Folk Ensemble Performance
• 8:00 PM – Bollywood Music Night
• 9:30 PM – Laser & Light Projection Show on Ancient Monuments

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Day 3 – Sunday, February 15, 2026

Spiritual Celebration & Closing Ceremony

Morning Session

• 8:00 AM – Cultural Marathon Run (Heritage Route)
• 10:00 AM – Classical Dance Festival (Bharatanatyam & Kuchipudi)

Afternoon Session

• 2:00 PM – Student Cultural Competitions
• 4:00 PM – Award Ceremony for Folk Artists

Evening Session – Grand Finale

• 6:00 PM – Tungabhadra Aarti Ceremony
• 7:00 PM – Fusion Music Concert
• 8:30 PM – Closing Ceremony & Fireworks Display

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Main Festival Highlights

• Janapada Kalavahini Folk Procession
• Monument Lighting of the Stone Chariot
• Light & Sound Show narrating the glory of the Vijayanagara Empire
• Rural Sports & Traditional Competitions
• Cultural Programs at Gayatri Peetha

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Important Notes

• Entry to most programs is free.
• Seating at main stage events is on a first-come basis.
• Visitors are advised to arrive 45–60 minutes early for evening events.
• Hampi is a plastic-free heritage zone.

What to Expect in Hampi Utsav 2026 Program List PDF

When the official schedule is released, here’s what you’ll usually find inside:

1. Janapada Kalavahini Procession

A spectacular folk parade featuring hundreds of artists from across Karnataka. Traditional drums, Yakshagana performers, Dollu Kunitha troupes — all marching through heritage streets.

This procession is often the most photographed moment of the festival.

2. Monument Illumination

Imagine the majestic Virupaksha Temple glowing at night. Or the iconic Stone Chariot bathed in dramatic lighting.

The entire 4,100-hectare heritage zone transforms into a visual masterpiece.

3. Main Stage Cultural Performances

Held at Gayatri Peetha, the main stage features:

• Classical Carnatic concerts
• Folk dance showcases
• Bollywood music nights
• Fusion performances

The program list PDF will provide exact timings for each performance.

4. Light & Sound Show

Projected against ancient monuments, this show narrates the rise and glory of the Vijayanagara Empire. It’s immersive and deeply emotional.

5. Rural Sports & Traditional Competitions

From Kusti (wrestling) to stone-lifting contests, these events reflect Karnataka’s rural strength and heritage.

6. Tungabhadra Aarti

Evening prayers along the Tungabhadra River offer a spiritual pause amidst celebration.

How to Reach Hampi for the Festival

By Road

Hampi is around 6 hours from Bengaluru via NH48/NH50. KSRTC buses and private taxis operate regularly.

By Train

The nearest station is Hosapete Junction, just 13 km away.

Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available from the station.

By Air

• Jindal Vijayanagar Airport – Approx. 40 minutes
• Hubballi Airport – Alternative option

Accommodation Tips for Hampi Utsav 2026

During festival dates, hotels in Hampi and Hosapete fill up months in advance.

Practical advice:

• Book at least 2–3 months early
• Consider staying in Hosapete for better availability
• Confirm cancellation policies
• Choose properties near main event venues

Important Things to Keep in Mind

Hampi is a protected heritage site. That means strict rules.

• It is a plastic-free zone. Carry reusable bottles.
• Wear comfortable footwear — walking is unavoidable.
• February afternoons can be warm; use sunscreen and hats.
• Follow local guidelines and respect monument boundaries.

Real-World Experience: Why Planning Matters

In previous editions, the Janapada Kalavahini procession began earlier than many tourists expected. Those who relied on guesswork missed the grand opening.

But visitors who downloaded the official schedule arrived early and secured the best viewing spots.

Planning transforms your trip from chaotic to unforgettable.

Benefits of Attending Hampi Utsav 2026

• Cultural immersion in Karnataka traditions
• Night photography opportunities
• Live classical music experiences
• Spiritual connection through temple ceremonies
• Educational exposure to Vijayanagara history

Possible Challenges

• Heavy crowd during evening shows
• Limited parking near heritage zones
• High hotel prices during festival dates
• Mobile network congestion

Advance planning solves most of these issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Hampi Utsav 2026 Program List pdf