South India's Royal Heritage

Upon arrival at Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to rest and acclimatize after your journey.

Subject to your flight arrival time, you may choose to join an optional evening walking tour of Malleshwaram from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Known as "Malleshwaram Hogona," this unique street art project was created by the artists' collective Geechugalu in partnership with Gully Tours, with the aim of making public spaces more pedestrian-friendly and accessible to women. The experience begins with local cuisine and traditional South Indian coffee at the iconic 70-year-old Hotel CTR. Armed with a curated map, you will then explore twelve vibrant wall artworks hidden within the charming alleyways of historic Malleshwaram. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating stories about the neighborhood's heritage, the vision behind the street art project, the artists and their inspirations, and Bangalore's evolving cultural landscape. The tour also includes coffee, refreshments, and takeaway postcards as souvenirs of this immersive local experience. Overnight stay in Bangalore.

After breakfast, embark on a brief orientation tour of Bangalore, visiting some of the city's notable landmarks, including St. Mary’s Basilica, one of the oldest and most revered churches in the city, and the beautiful Raja Rajeshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeshwari. Later, drive to Mysore, renowned as the cultural capital of Karnataka and celebrated for its royal heritage, art, and traditions. En route, stop at Srirangapatna, the historic island town that once served as the capital of the legendary warrior king Tipu Sultan. Explore key attractions including Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, known for its elegant Indo-Islamic architecture, the Gumbaz, which houses the mausoleum of Tipu Sultan and his family, and the revered Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of South India's most important Vaishnavite pilgrimage sites. After the sightseeing tour, continue your journey to Mysore and check in to your hotel. The evening is free to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Mysore.

After breakfast, set out for a full-day exploration of Mysore’s most celebrated landmarks. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Mysore Palace, the former seat of the Wodeyar dynasty and one of India’s most splendid royal residences. Continue to Chamundi Hills, which offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the impressive monolithic Nandi Bull statue. Later, drive to Somanathapura to admire the exquisite Chennakesava Temple, a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture renowned for its intricate stone carvings and remarkable craftsmanship. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mysore with a guided walking tour of the bustling Devaraja Market and local bazaar. This century-old marketplace, bursting with colors, aromas, and local life, is a paradise for photographers and culture enthusiasts alike. Browse stalls selling spices, sandalwood products, flowers, and traditional savouries while learning about the city's rich heritage from your expert guide. During the tour, savor the famous Mysore Pak, the city’s iconic sweet delicacy made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour, at its place of origin. The experience concludes at a charming heritage hotel where you can relax with a cup of tea or coffee. The walking tour begins at 7:00 PM and lasts approximately two hours. Highlights include discovering the story of Mysore, exploring a century-old market, tasting authentic local delicacies, and enjoying the company of an expert tour companion with refreshments included. Overnight stay in Mysore.

After breakfast, depart Mysore and drive towards Hassan, journeying through the heart of Karnataka’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. En route, visit Shravanabelagola, one of the most important Jain pilgrimage centers in India, renowned for its towering 19-meter monolithic statue of Lord Gomateshwara (Bahubali), which stands majestically atop Vindhyagiri Hill. Continue to Belur to explore the magnificent Chennakesava Temple, a masterpiece of Hoysala architecture celebrated for its extraordinary craftsmanship and intricate carvings depicting gods, goddesses, dancers, musicians, and scenes from Hindu epics. Later, proceed to Halebid, the former capital of the Hoysala Empire, where you will visit the impressive Hoysaleshwara Temple. Although left incomplete, the temple is widely admired for its elaborate stone sculptures, detailed friezes, and remarkable artistic excellence that showcase the zenith of Hoysala temple architecture. After completing the sightseeing tour, continue your drive to Hassan and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. Overnight stay in Hassan.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your journey towards Hospet, the gateway to the magnificent ruins of Hampi. En route, visit the impressive Chitradurga Fort, one of Karnataka’s most remarkable historical landmarks. Sprawling across nearly 1,500 acres, this massive hill fort is renowned for its seven concentric fortification walls, ingenious defense systems, secret passages, watchtowers, and fascinating legends of valor and resistance. Explore the fort's ancient gateways, reservoirs, temples, and granite outcrops while learning about its rich history and strategic significance. Following the visit, continue your scenic drive through the Karnataka countryside to Hospet. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to relax and prepare for the exploration of Hampi. Overnight stay in Hospet.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Hampi, the once-glorious capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set amidst a dramatic landscape of giant granite boulders, ancient temples, and royal ruins, Hampi offers a fascinating glimpse into one of South India’s greatest medieval kingdoms. Explore the remarkable architectural and cultural treasures of this historic city, beginning with the Virupaksha Temple, one of India’s oldest continuously functioning temples and an important pilgrimage site. Continue to the magnificent Vittala Temple, famed for its iconic stone chariot and legendary musical pillars. Visit the elegant Lotus Mahal, a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture, and the Queen’s Bath, known for its graceful corridors and ornate design. Discover the impressive Elephant Stables, once used to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire, and admire the towering Lakshmi Narasimha Statue, a striking monolithic representation of Lord Vishnu’s fierce incarnation. Further highlights include the Hazara Rama Temple, celebrated for its intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana, and the Achyutaraya Temple, peacefully nestled amidst the ruins near Matanga Hill. Throughout the day, your guide will bring Hampi’s rich history to life, revealing stories of its rise, prosperity, and eventual decline. Return to Hospet in the evening for an overnight stay.

Optional Experience: Coracle Ride on the Tungabhadra River

Later, enjoy a peaceful coracle boat ride on the tranquil waters of the Tungabhadra River, one of Hampi’s most distinctive and memorable experiences. These traditional circular boats, used by local communities for centuries, offer a unique perspective of the UNESCO-listed landscape. As you gently glide across the river, take in panoramic views of the ancient ruins, dramatic boulder formations, lush riverbanks, and temple silhouettes that define Hampi’s enchanting scenery. The leisurely ride provides an excellent opportunity to relax, capture stunning photographs, and appreciate the timeless beauty and heritage-rich atmosphere of this extraordinary destination from a different vantage point.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive towards Badami, the ancient capital of the Chalukya dynasty. En route, visit Aihole, often referred to as the “Cradle of Hindu Temple Architecture,” where over a hundred early temple structures showcase the evolution of Indian temple design. Continue to Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its magnificent collection of temples that beautifully blend northern Nagara and southern Dravidian architectural styles, reflecting the artistic brilliance of the Early Chalukya period. After exploring these remarkable heritage sites, proceed to Badami and check in to your hotel. In the late afternoon, visit the famous Badami Cave Temples, a series of rock-cut sanctuaries carved into towering sandstone cliffs during the 6th and 7th centuries. Admire the intricate sculptures, ancient inscriptions, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Later, spend time at the picturesque Agastya Lake, surrounded by red sandstone hills, temples, and historic monuments, offering spectacular sunset views and excellent photography opportunities. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Badami.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Goa, India's famed coastal paradise known for its golden beaches, Portuguese heritage, and relaxed tropical atmosphere. Enjoy the scenic journey as the landscape gradually transforms from the rugged terrain of northern Karnataka to the palm-fringed coastline of Goa. Upon arrival, transfer to your beach resort and complete the check-in formalities. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax by the beach, enjoy the resort facilities, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or simply unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings. Overnight stay in Goa.

Today is free to enjoy Goa at your own pace. Relax on the region’s famous golden beaches, soak up the tropical sunshine, or make use of the facilities at your resort. For those wishing to explore beyond the coastline, a variety of optional excursions can be arranged. Visit a traditional spice plantation to learn about Goa’s rich agricultural heritage and aromatic spices, explore the fascinating marine life at the Deep Sea Aquarium, or discover the historic Alorna Fort, a lesser-known landmark offering glimpses into Goa’s colonial past. Nature enthusiasts may enjoy a visit to the scenic Amthane Dam, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes, while history and culture lovers can explore the State Museum of Goa, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts reflecting the region’s diverse heritage. After a leisurely day of relaxation and exploration, return to your resort for an overnight stay in Goa.

Enjoy another leisurely day in Goa, with the freedom to relax by the beach or explore more of the region’s cultural and natural attractions through optional excursions. Discover Goa’s rich Portuguese heritage on a guided walk through Old Goa, visiting the historic Basilica of Bom Jesus, home to the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, and the magnificent Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia. Nature lovers may choose to visit the picturesque Anjunem Dam, nestled amidst lush hills and forests, offering peaceful surroundings and scenic views. Another rewarding excursion takes you to the beautiful Arvalem Waterfalls and the nearby Arvalem Caves, ancient rock-cut chambers believed to date back several centuries. Whether you spend the day exploring historic landmarks or simply enjoying the laid-back coastal atmosphere, Goa offers the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery. Overnight stay in Goa.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Goa Airport for your domestic flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival in Mumbai, connect with your international departure flight. As your journey through Karnataka and Goa comes to an end, take with you unforgettable memories of magnificent temples, royal palaces, ancient ruins, vibrant cultures, scenic landscapes, and relaxing beachside experiences. We wish you a pleasant onward journey and hope to welcome you back to India again in the future.