from 0 review
19 Nights / 20 Days
Daily Tour
10 people
English
“From Palaces to Backwaters: An Epic South Indian Adventure” takes you on a captivating journey through the rich heritage and scenic beauty of South India. Starting in the vibrant city of Bangalore, you’ll explore historic palaces and lush gardens before moving on to the royal city of Mysore, renowned for its magnificent palace and bustling markets. The tour then leads you to ancient temple complexes in Hassan, Hampi, and Badami, showcasing the architectural splendor of bygone eras. Experience the serene backwaters of Kerala aboard a traditional houseboat and delve into the wildlife of Thekkady. Conclude with a cultural immersion in Pondicherry and Chennai, blending historical marvels with vibrant city life and tranquil coastal retreats.
# | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Discount on 2-person group | 2 | 2 | 45.7% |
2 | Discount on 3-person group | 3 | 3 | 47.1% |
3 | Discount on 4-person group | 4 | 4 | 54.4% |
4 | Discount on 5-person group | 5 | 5 | 56.1% |
5 | Discount on 6-person group | 6 | 6 | 59.6% |
6 | Discount on 7-person group | 7 | 7 | 60.0% |
7 | Discount on 8-person group | 8 | 8 | 63.9% |
Upon arrival at Bangalore airport, you will be greeted by our representative who will assist you with the transfer to your hotel. Check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing and acclimatizing to the city. Explore nearby local attractions or enjoy the hotel facilities.
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Bangalore. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, renowned for its vast collection of tropical plants and the iconic glasshouse modeled after London's Crystal Palace. Explore Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, showcasing stunning teakwood architecture and vibrant frescoes depicting the Sultan’s life. Tour Bangalore Palace, an impressive royal residence inspired by England’s Windsor Castle, featuring opulent interiors and expansive grounds. Stroll through Cubbon Park, a lush green oasis in the city center, ideal for a relaxing walk among its well-maintained gardens. Discover Vidhana Soudha, the seat of Karnataka’s state legislature, noted for its grand neo-Dravidian architecture and impressive façade. Visit the Bull Temple, famous for its enormous monolithic bull statue dedicated to Nandi, Lord Shiva’s mount, with unique Dravidian design elements. Explore the Bangalore Fort, an ancient fortification that played a key role in Bangalore’s history, offering insights into the city's past.
After breakfast, drive to Mysore. En route, visit Shri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna, a renowned Vaishnavite temple with intricate carvings and historical significance. Upon arrival in Mysore, check in at your hotel and later visit Mysore Palace, an opulent royal residence adorned with beautiful artwork, grand halls, and a rich history. Ascend Chamundi Hills to visit the Chamundeshwari Temple, a sacred site with panoramic views of Mysore and intricate carvings. Explore St. Philomena's Cathedral, a neo-gothic church with impressive stained glass windows and towering spires. Wander through Devaraja Market, a bustling bazaar known for its vibrant array of flowers, spices, and local handicrafts. Visit the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest and best-maintained zoos in India, housing a diverse collection of animal species. Explore the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, a short drive from Mysore, known for its bird-watching opportunities and serene river setting.
After breakfast, drive to Hassan. En route, visit Shravanabelagola, an important Jain pilgrimage site featuring the towering Bahubali statue, a symbol of Jain spirituality and art. Continue to Hassan and check in at the hotel. In the evening, visit Belur temple complex, renowned for its intricate Hoysala architecture, including the Channakeshava Temple with its detailed sculptures. Explore Halebidu temple complex, known for its exquisite carvings and the Hoysaleswara Temple, celebrated for its elaborate friezes and historical importance. Visit the Hassan Jain Temples, known for their ancient architecture and serene ambiance, adding to the cultural richness of the area. Overnight stay in Hassan.
After breakfast, drive to Hampi. Enjoy scenic views during the drive and revisit the Belur and Halebidu temple complexes if not fully explored previously. Arrive in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and check in at your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the unique landscape of Hampi, including the ruins of Vijayanagara Empire and the beautiful Tungabhadra River. Visit the Hampi Bazaar and nearby local attractions such as the Stone Chariot and the Hampi Monoliths. Overnight stay in Hampi.
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Hampi. Explore the Virupaksha Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva with remarkable architecture and historical significance. Visit Vittala Temple, renowned for its stunning stone chariot and musical pillars that produce melodic sounds. Discover Lotus Mahal, an elegant palace with lotus-shaped arches, reflecting the grandeur of Vijayanagara architecture. See the Elephant Stables, a large, domed structure used to house the royal elephants, showcasing unique architectural design. Visit the Queen’s Bath, an ornate bathing area with intricate carvings and a serene environment. Explore the Achyutaraya Temple and the Matanga Hill, offering panoramic views of the Hampi ruins and the surrounding landscape. Visit the Underground Temple and the Hemakuta Hill temples for their historical and architectural significance.
After breakfast, drive to Badami. En route, visit Lakkundi, known for its ancient temples and beautifully carved sculptures, including the Chalukyan architecture of the Lakshminarayana Temple. Continue to Gadag, renowned for its architectural marvels like the Trikuteshwara Temple, featuring intricate carvings and historical significance. Arrive in Badami and check in at the hotel. Explore the rock-cut cave temples of Badami, including Cave 1, 2, and 3, with their impressive carvings and historical relevance. Visit the Agastya Lake and the Bhutanatha Temples, offering scenic beauty and insights into early Chalukyan architecture. Discover the Archaeological Museum of Badami, which houses ancient artifacts, inscriptions, and sculptures. Overnight stay in Badami.
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakkal. Visit Badami's rock-cut cave temples, renowned for their intricate carvings and historical relevance, including Cave 1 with its elaborate carvings of Lord Vishnu. Proceed to Aihole, known as the "Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture," and explore its diverse temple styles, including the Durga Temple and the Ladkhan Temple. Visit Pattadakkal, a UNESCO World Heritage site with exquisite temples showcasing Chalukyan architecture, including the Virupaksha Temple and the Jain Narayana Temple. Explore the Papanatha Temple, known for its detailed carvings and historical significance. Return to Badami for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, drive to Hubli airport for your onward flight to Cochin. Upon arrival in Cochin, our representative will assist with the transfer to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance show, a traditional Kerala art form known for its elaborate costumes, facial expressions, and storytelling through dance. Visit the local spice markets and enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner. Overnight stay in Cochin.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and explore Cochin’s highlights. Visit the Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, with its rich collection of artifacts and murals depicting Kerala’s royal history. Explore the Jewish Synagogue, known for its historic significance and beautiful hand-painted tiles. See the Chinese Fishing Nets, a unique fishing method with a distinct style, and the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Drive to Alleppey and transfer to the houseboat jetty. Board your traditional houseboat and embark on a delightful cruise through the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, enjoying the serene and beautiful surroundings as you sail through the canals. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Disembark from the houseboat after breakfast and drive to Thekkady, a scenic hill station famous for its wildlife sanctuary. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Martial Arts and Kathakali dance performance, showcasing traditional Kerala cultural art forms. Explore the local markets and enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
After breakfast, visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on a boat cruise. Explore the rich flora and fauna of the sanctuary, with opportunities to spot exotic wildlife including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. In the afternoon, take a spice plantation tour to learn about the cultivation of different spices like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla, and enjoy a guided walk through the plantation. Visit the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre to witness traditional Kerala martial arts demonstrations. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Thekkady.
After breakfast, drive to Munnar, renowned for its tea plantations and mist-covered mountains. En route, visit Ramakkalmedu, known for its panoramic views and scenic beauty. Continue to Munnar and check in at your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the tranquil surroundings and lush landscapes of Munnar. Visit local tea estates and enjoy the serene environment. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery. Explore the Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and its history, with insights into Munnar’s tea industry. Enjoy panoramic views of the tea gardens and the picturesque valleys. Visit Mattupetty Dam, known for its picturesque setting and boating opportunities. Explore Echo Point, famous for its natural echo phenomenon, and Top Station, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Discover the Attukal Waterfalls and the Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, drive to Madurai, a city known for its cultural heritage and historical landmarks. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Later, explore the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi with its towering gopurams and vibrant sculptures. Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its grandiose architecture and historical significance. Explore the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which showcases the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi through exhibits and artifacts. Witness the evening prayer ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple, a spiritually enriching experience. Overnight stay in Madurai.
After breakfast, drive to Thanjavur, with a visit to Trichy en route. In Trichy, visit the Rock Fort Temple, perched atop a rocky hill, offering panoramic views and intricate cave temples. Explore the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a major pilgrimage site with its grand gopurams and expansive courtyard. Continue your journey to Thanjavur and visit the Brihadeshwara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its massive vimana and detailed carvings. Explore Vijayanagar Fort, which includes the grand Thanjavur Palace and the impressive Art Gallery. Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library, known for its vast collection of manuscripts and rare books. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.
After breakfast, drive to Pondicherry, with stops at Darasuram and Gangaikondacholapuram. Visit Darasuram, known for the Airavatesvara Temple, famous for its detailed carvings and architectural finesse. Continue to Gangaikondacholapuram to explore the Brihadeshwara Temple, celebrated for its Chola architectural brilliance. In Chidambaram, visit Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its significance in Hindu worship and architecture. Arrive in Pondicherry and check in at your hotel. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
After breakfast, spend the day exploring Pondicherry’s attractions. Visit Aurobindo Ashram, known for its peaceful environment and spiritual teachings. Explore Auroville, an experimental township with unique community living and the Matrimandir, a meditation center with an intriguing design. Wander through the French Quarter, characterized by colonial architecture, boutique shops, and charming cafes. Relax on the beaches of Pondicherry, including Promenade Beach and Paradise Beach, known for their serene and scenic settings. Explore the Pondicherry Museum and the Botanical Gardens for additional cultural and historical insights. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
After breakfast, drive to Chennai via Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. In Mahabalipuram, visit the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, and the Five Rathas, showcasing ancient rock-cut architecture and sculptures. Explore the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse and the nearby Pancha Rathas, rock-cut temples dedicated to different deities. In Kanchipuram, visit Ekambareswarar Temple with its massive temple tank and Kailasanathar Temple, known for its early Dravidian architectural style. Continue to Chennai, check in at your hotel, and relax. Overnight stay in Chennai.
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Chennai. Visit Fort St. George, the first British fort in India, which now houses the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and a museum. Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple, known for its vibrant Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings. Stroll along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, with its lively atmosphere and street vendors. Visit the Government Museum, housing extensive collections of art, archaeology, and natural history. Shop for souvenirs in Chennai’s bustling markets or enjoy some last-minute exploration. Later, transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Hotels used or similar for 19 nights accommodation
3 Star Hotels
Bangalore x 2 nights: Royal Orchid Central/ Ramada Bangalore
Mysore x 1 night: Sandesh The Prince/ Regenta Central Herald By Royal Orchid Hotels
Hassan x 1 night: The Ashhok/ Pearl Hotel
Hampi x 2 nights: Malligi Hotel/ Clarks Inn
Badami x 2 nights: Badami Court/ Clarks Inn
Cochin x 1 night: The Tower House/ The Killians
Alleppey x 1 night: Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)
Thekkady x 2 nights: Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
Munnar x 2 nights: Abad Copper Castle/ Elysium Garden Hill Resort
Madurai x 1 night: JC Residency/ Hotel Royal Court
Thanjavur x 1 night: Sangam Hotels
Pondicherry x 2 nights: Shenbaga Hotel/ Anandha Inn Convention Centre
Chennai x 1 night: ZONE By The Park/ Raj Park
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