Many of the prominent hilltops around the ruined city are crowned by temples, reached via winding flights of rock-cut steps. For sunrise, however, none can hold a candle to Matanga Hill. Climb up in the pre-dawn gloom with your guide for a jaw-dropping view east across a temple complex to a horizon of boulders and orchards. A chai wallah makes the climb each morning to serve visitors glasses of hot, sweet Indian tea as the sun illuminates this spellbinding panorama.

You can add this experience to any tailor-made itinerary that includes a night in Hampi.