Hippie Island

While most tourists stay to the south of Tungabhadra where most of the ruins are located, some prefer the north banks which have a vibrant hippie culture. Virapapur Gadde or Hippie Island is a small island situated across the Tungabhadra river. It takes 5 minutes to travel to the island via coracle or boat. The last boat for the island leaves at 5.30 pm. The backpacker's delight, Hippie Island (Virupapur Gadde) is an epitome of scenic beauty and is known for laidback ambient and lodges.

It has shacks and cafes which operate from October end to mid-March. They serve awesome food along with chilled beer, and most of these have a great view of either the river or the beautiful rice fields. A lot of these cafes also serve as guest houses and you can get simple rooms here at cheap rates. Away from the luxurious life, living in small huts, savouring the taste both Indian and Western cuisine and lying on the banks of the river you will definitely develop affection for the place. The shacks and cafes are a joint venture by Indians and Foreigners. Virupapur Gadde is full of backpackers who are on their way of exploring the remains of ancient times in the modern age. Therefore, you would find many for your company.

During the peak, season backpackers storm this area. It has small tourist huts which are offered at quite reasonable prices. The island has small cafes which are a joint venture of Indians and foreigners who stayed back to the place after it mesmerized them. A coracle ferry is needed to reach this side of the river. During the monsoon season, it is advisable to take a taxi to another end which is 40 km away.