The Vittala Temple in Hampi was famous for its musical pillars in its heyday. The slender monolithic granite pillars were constructed to sound the different notes of the scale when struck. Today, the pillars are guarded from whimsical beatings of visitors to protect it from further damage. These pillars pictured here were from another pavilion opened to visitors.
Hampi is a UNESCO site where the ruins of the ancient Vijayanagara empire still stands. Some has been extensively restored for posterity and viewing by visitors. The area covers some 26 square kilometers across the arid boulder-strewn landscape.