BLACKBOOK THE REDISCOVERY The Lotus Mahal, left, is among the most celebrated sites in Hampi; the stone corridors of the Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, below OPULENCE RECLAIMED One of southern India’s most iconic historic sites finally has a hotel to reflect its grandeur. AMAR GROVER paid it a visit Poor Hampi can’t catch a break. Set within the ruins of Vijayanagar – the city that headed the vast empire of the same name and which ruled nearly all of southern India for the two centuries until 1565 – it was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site more than 30 years ago. And yet it remains in almost pitchblack obscurity, forgotten even by many who visit Bengaluru, the techcrazed capital of Karnataka some 350 kilometres away, and Goa, the seaside haven that’s a few kilometres closer to the west. But change is afoot, thanks in part to the opening last year of PHOTOS FROM TOP: TOM HANSLIEN/LOOP IMAGES/LAIF, APU SISTA 36 CENTURION-MAGAZINE.COM CONTACT CENTURION SERVICE FOR BOOKINGS
Take the interactive tour THE CHEDI PENTHOUSES The Chedi Penthouses combine the exclusivity of a private home with the amenities of the most elegant and luxurious hotel in the Alps. When it comes to the interior layout and finishing of your penthouse, you can let your imagination run free. Our architects and designers will work with you to realise your personal wishes, whether one-of-a-kind master bedroom, stylish library, expansive private spa landscape or private hideaway with guest rooms for your friends. Sizes range from 189 m² to 616 m² Contact us for more information or visit us in Andermatt (Switzerland). Phone +41 41 888 77 99, realestate@andermatt-swissalps.ch www.andermatt-penthouses.ch
