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Historic Treasures of Deccan & Kerala: Forts, Temples & Backwaters

0/5
Duration

14 Nights / 15 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the “Historic Treasures of Deccan & Kerala: Forts, Temples & Backwaters” tour, where history and natural beauty intertwine seamlessly. Explore ancient forts and temples across Hyderabad, Gulbarga, Bijapur, and Badami, each echoing tales of dynasties past. Witness architectural marvels like Golconda Fort and Badami Cave Temples, etched into cliffs of red sandstone. Transition into Kerala’s tranquil landscapes, where tea plantations in Munnar and serene backwaters in Kumarakom and Alleppey invite relaxation and exploration. This journey culminates in Kochi, where colonial history blends with vibrant markets and cultural delights. Experience South India’s rich heritage and natural splendor in this unforgettable expedition.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 %
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 %
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 %
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 %
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 %
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 %
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 %

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Hyderabad

Arrive in Hyderabad and transfer to your hotel. Rest and refresh after your journey.

Day 2: Hyderabad

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your exploration with a visit to Golconda Fort. This imposing fortress offers insights into Hyderabad's rich history and provides panoramic views of the city from its ramparts. Explore the Qutb Shahi Tombs nearby, a tranquil complex of tombs and mosques featuring intricate Persian and Indian architectural styles amidst landscaped gardens. Visit the iconic Charminar, a monument and mosque located in the heart of Hyderabad's old city, known for its four grand arches and minarets. Explore the Salar Jung Museum, one of the largest art museums in India, housing an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and antiques from various civilizations.

Day 3: Hyderabad - Gulbarga (260kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for Gulbarga. Visit Gulbarga Fort, a medieval fortification with impressive bastions and mosques that highlight the architectural prowess of the Bahmani Sultanate. Explore the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India known for its exquisite architecture and serene ambiance. Visit the Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, dedicated to the 18th-century Hindu philosopher and saint, featuring intricate carvings and religious significance.

Day 4: Gulbarga - Bijapur (170kms)

After breakfast, travel to Bijapur, renowned for its Islamic architecture and historical monuments. Explore Ibrahim Rouza, an elegant mausoleum known for its symmetrical design, ornate minarets, and intricate stone carvings. Visit the impressive Gol Gumbaz, a mausoleum housing the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah, featuring the second-largest dome in the world and known for its exceptional acoustics. Explore Malik-i-Maidan, a medieval cannon placed on a stone platform and known for its historical significance and craftsmanship.

Day 5: Bijapur - Badami (120kms)

Depart after breakfast for Badami, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rock-cut cave temples carved into cliffs of red sandstone. Explore Badami Cave Temples, dedicated to various Hindu deities and adorned with detailed sculptures depicting mythological tales. Visit the Bhutanatha Temples, located on the banks of Agastya Lake and showcasing intricate carvings and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the Archaeological Museum in Badami, housing sculptures, artifacts, and inscriptions from the Chalukyan period, offering insights into the region's history.

Day 6: Badami

After breakfast, visit Aihole, often referred to as the "Cradle of Indian Architecture," known for its early Chalukyan temples showcasing experimental temple architecture. Proceed to Pattadakal, another UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its exquisite blend of North and South Indian architectural styles in its temples and sculptures. Explore the Jain temples at Pattadakal, showcasing detailed carvings and unique architectural features dedicated to Jain deities. Visit the Banashankari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Banashankari and known for its ancient Dravidian architecture and religious significance.

Day 7: Badami - Hampi (180kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before traveling to Hampi, the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and towering gopurams. Visit the Queen's Bath, an ancient royal bathing complex featuring Indo-Islamic architecture and ornate interiors. Explore the Hemakuta Hill Temples, offering panoramic views of the Hampi landscape and showcasing ancient temples and shrines.

Day 8: Hampi

After breakfast, visit the Vijaya Vittala Temple, renowned for its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars that produce melodious sounds when struck. Explore the Hampi Bazaar and the Royal Enclosures, which house ancient palaces, temples, and structures that showcase the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. Visit the Hazara Rama Temple, known for its exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana and intricate carvings narrating the tales of Lord Rama. Explore the Lotus Mahal, a unique structure within the Zenana Enclosure known for its elegant architecture and use of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles.

Day 9: Hampi - Cochin

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for Cochin (Kochi), a coastal city with a rich blend of colonial and Indian architecture. Upon arrival, explore the historic Fort Kochi area, known for its colonial buildings, Chinese fishing nets, and vibrant art scene. Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and explore the Mattancherry Palace, known for its exquisite murals depicting Hindu mythological themes. Experience a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance form of Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes, intricate facial expressions, and storytelling through dance.

Day 10: Cochin - Munnar (140kms)

After breakfast, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats and famous for its tea estates. Visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process, followed by a tea-tasting session to savor the flavors of Kerala's renowned tea. Explore the Tea Museum in Munnar, showcasing the evolution of tea plantations in the region and the history of tea cultivation in Kerala. Visit the Attukal Waterfalls, a scenic waterfall surrounded by lush green hills and offering opportunities for photography and nature walks.

Day 11: Munnar

After breakfast, explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoy the panoramic views of the tea gardens and hills. Visit Mattupetty Dam, a picturesque dam surrounded by lush green valleys and offering boating facilities amidst serene surroundings. Proceed to the Top Station viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of the Western Ghats and the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. Visit the Rose Garden in Munnar, showcasing a variety of roses and other flowering plants amidst manicured lawns and scenic surroundings.

Day 12: Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving to Thekkady, known for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice plantations. Embark on a guided spice plantation tour to learn about various spices grown in the region, followed by a visit to a local spice market. Take a boat cruise on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre in Thekkady, showcasing traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performances and demonstrations.

Day 13: Thekkady - Kumarakom (140kms)

After breakfast, travel to Kumarakom, a serene village situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary or taking a leisurely boat ride on the backwaters. Visit the Bay Island Driftwood Museum, showcasing a unique collection of driftwood sculptures and artifacts crafted from natural materials found along the Kerala coast. Experience a traditional Kerala cooking demonstration and enjoy a sumptuous lunch prepared with local ingredients and spices.

Day 14: Kumarakom - Alleppey (B,L,D)

After breakfast, embark on a houseboat cruise through the scenic backwaters of Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha. Enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine served on board and experience the peaceful life along the backwaters. Visit a local village to interact with the villagers and learn about their traditional lifestyle and fishing techniques. Enjoy a cultural evening on the houseboat with traditional music, dance performances, and storytelling sessions.

Day 15: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms) (B)

After breakfast on the houseboat, disembark and drive back to Cochin. Visit the Jewish Synagogue in Cochin, known for its exquisite Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles. Explore the Fort Kochi area for last-minute shopping of spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Departure from Cochin or extend your journey to explore more of Kerala's coastal beauty, or transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 11 Night's accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Hubli - Cochin flight fare approx INR 5,500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation

3 Star Hotels
Hyderabad x 2 nights: Hotel Abode/ Aditya Park
Gulbarga x 1 night: Kyriad Hotel Gulbarga by OTHPL/ Mastiff Select
Bijapur x 1 night: The Fern Residency/ Kyriad Hotel Vijayapura by OTHPL
Badami x 2 nights: Badami Court/ Clarks Inn
Hampi x 2 nights: Malligi Hotel/ Clarks Inn
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
Munnar x 2 nights: Abad Copper Castle/ Elysium Garden Hill Resort
Thekkady x 1 night: Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
Kumarakom x 1 night: Eastend Lake Song/ Abad Whispering Palm
Alleppey x 1 night: Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

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