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Grand Heritage Tour of Western India: Temples, Forts, and Backwaters

0/5
Duration

17 Nights / 18 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on the Grand Heritage Tour of Western India: Temples, Forts, and Backwaters and explore the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and natural treasures. Begin your journey in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, visiting iconic landmarks and vibrant markets. Discover the ancient caves and historical monuments of Aurangabad before soaking in the Portuguese heritage and pristine beaches of Goa. Journey through the architectural wonders of Badami and Hampi, experiencing the grandeur of centuries-old temples and fortresses. Continue to Kerala, where you will be enchanted by the lush tea plantations of Munnar, the wildlife of Thekkady, and the serene backwaters of Alleppey. This tour offers a perfect blend of heritage, culture, and nature, providing a truly unforgettable Indian adventure.

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 45.8%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 46.2%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 51.2%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 52.8%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 56.9%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 57.2%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 61.5%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

Arrival in Mumbai and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Rest and leisure time to recover from the journey.

Day 2: Mumbai

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit the Gateway of India, an iconic arch monument overlooking the Arabian Sea, built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai. Explore the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum), showcasing ancient artifacts, decorative arts, and exhibits on Indian history and culture. Visit the Hanging Gardens, terraced gardens perched at the top of Malabar Hill, offering a green oasis with spectacular views of the city and Arabian Sea. Stroll through the vibrant Colaba Causeway market, known for its bustling atmosphere, street shopping, and variety of cafes and restaurants. Explore the heritage marbles on Fourth Mumbai and the Kala Ghoda Art District, known for its eclectic mix of art galleries, cultural spaces, and vibrant street art.

Day 3: Mumbai - Aurangabad (Flight)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Fly to Aurangabad and check-in to your hotel. Excursion to Ellora Caves, and explore the Kailasa Temple, the largest monolithic structure in the world, carved out of a single rock, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and architectural grandeur. Visit Daulatabad Fort, a formidable hilltop fortress known for its defensive architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore Bibi Ka Maqbara, a mausoleum often referred to as the "Mini Taj" due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal, built by Aurangzeb's son in memory of his mother.

Day 4: Aurangabad

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to visit Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Buddhist cave paintings and sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE. Return and visit Aurangabad Caves, a set of 12 rock-cut Buddhist shrines nestled in a hillside, showcasing intricate carvings and ancient architecture. Optional: Aurangabad Heritage Walk to explore the city's rich cultural and historical heritage through its ancient monuments and vibrant markets.

Day 5: Aurangabad - Goa (Flight)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Fly to Goa, known for its Portuguese heritage and pristine beaches. Check-in to your hotel and relax.

Day 6: Goa

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and showcasing Baroque architecture. Explore Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, known for its Portuguese-Gothic style and the Golden Bell. Visit Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and housing a lighthouse and a well-preserved freshwater reservoir. Explore the historic neighborhood of Fontainhas in Panaji, known for its narrow streets, Portuguese-style colorful houses, and art galleries. Visit the Ancestral Goa Museum (Big Foot) to experience Goan rural life through art, artifacts, and recreated traditional houses.

Day 7: Goa

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Day free and easy for personal activities and relaxation.

Day 8: Goa - Badami (184kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Badami and check-in to your hotel.

Day 9: Badami

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Aihole, an ancient town known as the "Cradle of Indian Architecture," with over 100 Hindu and Jain temples showcasing early Chalukyan architecture. Explore Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its group of 8th-century temples, reflecting a harmonious blend of North and South Indian architectural styles. Visit Badami Cave Temples, carved out of sandstone cliffs and adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu deities. Explore Agastya Lake and its surroundings, offering a serene setting for relaxation and reflection. Visit Banashankari Temple, known for its unique blend of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles and vibrant festivals.

Day 10: Badami - Hampi (180kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples, monuments, and boulder-strewn landscape. After check-in, visit Anagundi Village and experience a coracle ride.

Day 11: Hampi

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Explore the Vijaya Vittala Temple Complex, famous for its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars that produce musical notes when tapped. Visit the Royal Enclosure, housing several monuments including the Queen's Bath, Lotus Mahal, and the Elephant Stables, offering insights into Hampi's royal past. Visit Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the oldest functioning temples in India, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Explore the Hampi Bazaar and surrounding temples, offering insights into the prosperous Vijayanagara Empire through its ruins and vibrant market. Visit the Hemakuta Hill Temples for panoramic views of Hampi's landscape and ancient temple architecture.

Day 12: Hampi - Hubli (170kms)/ Cochin (Flight)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Hubli for your flight to Cochin (Kochi) or enjoy leisure time exploring more of Hampi. Arrive in Cochin and check-in to your hotel.

Day 13: Cochin - Munnar (130kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Sightseeing in Cochin covering maximum sights of tourist interest. Explore Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture, Chinese fishing nets, and historic St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Visit the Jewish Synagogue and explore the vibrant Jew Town with its antique shops and spice markets. Visit Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) to admire its Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits, and exhibits on the royal family's history. Drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, cool climate, and stunning landscapes.

Day 14: Munnar

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit the Top Station viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the plains of Tamil Nadu. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about tea processing and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea estates. Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offering scenic trekking trails amidst the Western Ghats. Visit Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake, where you can enjoy boating amidst serene surroundings and lush greenery. Explore Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, offering excellent trekking opportunities and stunning views. Visit Attukal Waterfalls, a scenic spot for photography and nature walks, surrounded by lush greenery and tea plantations. Discover the charm of Lockhart Gap, known for its panoramic views of mist-covered valleys and winding roads. Enjoy a visit to the Blossom Hydel Park, a tranquil park offering walking trails, gardens, and recreational activities.

Day 15: Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Thekkady, known for Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. Embark on a boat ride on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife amidst the tranquil waters and dense forests. Attend a traditional Kathakali dance performance or take a spice plantation tour to learn about Kerala's spice cultivation and processing.

Day 16: Thekkady

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Visit Spice Plantations to learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Enjoy activities such as bamboo rafting or nature walks in the Periyar Tiger Reserve to experience the rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Visit the Mangala Devi Temple, located in the midst of the forest, offering panoramic views of the Periyar Lake and surrounding hills.

Day 17: Thekkady - Alleppey (130kms)

Start with breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Alleppey and embark on a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Kerala, offering glimpses of local life and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy traditional Kerala meals on board and witness the sunset over the backwaters. Overnight stay on the houseboat to experience the tranquility of Kerala's backwaters under the starlit sky.

Day 18: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)

Start with breakfast on the houseboat. Disembark and drive back to Cochin. Drop off at the airport for your onward destination flight.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 17 Nights' accommodation in 3-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.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • 1-Time shared boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary with forest department naturalist.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Mumbai - Aurangabad - Goa & Hubli - Cochin flight fare approx INR 19,500 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 17 nights accommodation

3 Star Hotels
Mumbai x 2 nights: Hotel Godwin, Colaba/ Hotel Suba Palace
Aurangabad x 2 nights: The Fern Residency/ Amarpreet Hotel
Goa x 3 nights: The Fern Residency Miramar/ Zone Connect Hotel Parra
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 2 nights: Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
Alleppey x 1 night: Deluxe Houseboat (AC During Night Only)

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes traveler can upgrade the accommodation to 5 star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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