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Enchanting Heritage & Backwater Bliss: A South India Odyssey

0/5
Duration

18 Nights / 19 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey with Enchanting Heritage & Backwater Bliss: A South India Odyssey, where ancient monuments meet serene waterways. Begin in Mumbai, exploring the iconic Gateway of India and the Elephanta Caves before venturing to Aurangabad’s Bibi Ka Maqbara and the Ajanta Caves. Travel through Hyderabad’s historic forts and museums, then discover the architectural marvels of Gulbarga and Bijapur. Marvel at the ancient temples of Badami and the majestic ruins of Hampi. Conclude your odyssey with Kerala’s lush landscapes, from Munnar’s tea gardens to Thekkady’s wildlife, and unwind on a houseboat cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey. This tour offers an unforgettable blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty.

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 Mumbai

Welcome to Mumbai, the city of dreams! After you arrive at the airport, our representative will meet and greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Check-in and spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the bustling city on your own. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Day 2: Mumbai

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Visit the iconic Gateway of India and take a ferry to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rock-cut cave temples. The caves feature impressive sculptures and carvings dedicated to Hindu deities, particularly Lord Shiva. Return to Gateway of India and visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya museum, showcasing a vast collection of ancient artifacts and artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts. See the Victorian architecture of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) and Parliament House, both impressive examples of colonial-era buildings with intricate facades and historical significance. Witness the unique Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundromat where hundreds of washermen work daily, providing a fascinating glimpse into Mumbai's traditional laundry system. Drive past Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the city's skyline, especially beautiful at sunset. End the day with a visit to the bustling Crawford Market, a vibrant marketplace where you can experience local life and shop for fresh produce, spices, and a variety of goods. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

Day 3: Mumbai - Aurangabad (flight)

After breakfast, check out and head to the airport for a flight to Aurangabad. On arrival, check in at the hotel and proceed for a local sightseeing tour. Visit Bibi ka Maqbara, a stunning mausoleum often referred to as the "Taj of the Deccan," built by Prince Azam Shah in memory of his mother, showcasing Mughal architectural style. Explore Panchakki, an ancient water mill that displays the ingenuity of medieval Indian architecture, using water energy to grind grain. Discover the Aurangabad Caves, a group of rock-cut Buddhist caves with intricate carvings and sculptures, offering insights into the region's rich Buddhist heritage. Spend the evening exploring the local markets, known for their hand-woven Himroo and Paithani saris, traditional crafts that make excellent souvenirs. Overnight stay in Aurangabad.

Day 4: Aurangabad

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before taking an excursion to Ajanta Caves. Marvel at the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves adorned with beautiful paintings and sculptures. The caves depict the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales, showcasing exquisite artistry and devotion. Learn about the life of Buddha and the rich history of these caves, which date back to the 2nd century BCE, representing one of the finest examples of ancient Indian art. Return to Aurangabad in the evening for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Aurangabad - Hyderabad (flight)

After breakfast, check out and head to Ellora Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the remarkable Kailasa temple at Ellora, a massive monolithic rock excavation dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its detailed carvings and architectural grandeur. Explore the Grishneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting pilgrims from across the country. Tour the historic Daulatabad Fort, known for its impressive defensive structures, strategic location, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Head to the airport for a flight to Hyderabad. On arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Hyderabad.

Day 6: Hyderabad

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a full-day city tour of Hyderabad. Visit the iconic Golconda Fort, a majestic fortress known for its acoustic system, grand architecture, and stunning views of the city. Explore the Qutub Shahi Tombs, the royal necropolis of the Qutub Shahi dynasty, featuring impressive domed structures and beautifully landscaped gardens. Marvel at the Charminar, a historic monument and mosque that symbolizes Hyderabad, with its four grand arches and bustling bazaars. Tour the Salar Jung Museum, housing a vast collection of art, antiques, and artifacts from around the world, including rare manuscripts, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visit the Chowmahalla Palace, a former royal residence showcasing the grandeur of the Nizams, with its opulent halls, courtyards, and gardens. End the day with a visit to Birla Mandir, a beautiful temple built on a hillock, offering panoramic views of the city and dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. Drive past Hussain Sagar Lake, known for its large Buddha statue standing on Gibraltar Rock in the middle of the lake, illuminated beautifully at night. Overnight stay in Hyderabad.

Day 7: Hyderabad - Gulbarga (260kms)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Gulbarga. En route, visit the Bidar Fort, a massive fortification with intricate architecture, including mosques, palaces, and gardens, reflecting the grandeur of the Bahmani Sultanate. Explore the Bahmani Tombs, a group of impressive mausoleums built for the Bahmani rulers, showcasing Persian architectural influences and beautiful ornamentation. On arrival in Gulbarga, check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Gulbarga.

Day 8: Gulbarga - Bijapur (170kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and exploring Gulbarga. Visit the Gulbarga Fort, a historic structure housing ancient mosques, tombs, and an impressive citadel, offering a glimpse into the region's medieval history. See the Jama Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in South India with a unique architectural style, featuring a large dome and intricate mihrab. Pay respects at the Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, dedicated to the 12th-century philosopher and statesman Basava, known for its spiritual significance and annual fair. Visit the Tomb of Sufi mystic Khwaja Bande Nawaz, an important pilgrimage site for followers of the Sufi faith, with its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Drive to Bijapur and check in at the hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay in Bijapur.

Day 9: Bijapur - Badami (120kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Bijapur. Visit Bijapur Fort, known for its impressive defensive structures and historical significance, including the magnificent gate and bastions. Explore Asar Mahal, a beautiful palace built by Muhammad Adil Shah with a tranquil garden and water tank, once used as a royal audience hall. See Bara Kaman, an unfinished mausoleum with an intriguing architectural design, featuring a series of arched structures. Marvel at Gol Gumbaz, the mausoleum of Muhammad Adil Shah, famous for its massive dome and whispering gallery, where even the faintest sound is echoed multiple times. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India with a grand prayer hall and expansive courtyard, known for its simplicity and elegance. Discover Malik-e-Maidan, a giant medieval cannon with a fascinating history, considered one of the largest cannons of its time. See Mehtar Mahal, an exquisite gateway with intricate carvings and Islamic architectural features, serving as the entrance to the royal palace. Visit Ibrahims Rouza, a stunning mausoleum complex known for its beautiful gardens and intricate architecture, built for Ibrahim Adil Shah II and his queen. Drive to Badami, check in at the hotel, and spend the night there.

Day 10: Badami

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring the historical sites of Badami. Visit Aihole, an ancient temple town with over 125 temples showcasing early Chalukyan architecture, including the Durga Temple and Lad Khan Temple. Explore Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a collection of beautifully carved temples and monuments, such as the Virupaksha Temple and Mallikarjuna Temple, reflecting a unique blend of Dravidian and Nagara styles. Discover the Badami Cave temples, four rock-cut temples with intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures, dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist deities. Visit Badami Fort, a historic fortification with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, accessible by a climb through rugged terrain. See Agastya Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by red sandstone cliffs and temples, providing a picturesque setting and a place for reflection. Spend the night at the hotel.

Day 11: Badami - Hampi (180kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Hampi. En route, visit Gadag and Lakkundi to see the unique blend of ancient Hindu and Jain temples and medieval architecture, including the Trikuteshwara Temple in Gadag and the Brahma Jinalaya in Lakkundi. Upon arrival in Hampi, check in at the hotel and spend the night there.

Day 12: Hampi

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring the ruins of Hampi. Visit Hazara Rama Temple, known for its intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, a significant temple in the royal enclosure. See the King's Balance, a historic monument where kings were weighed against gold and precious stones, showcasing the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. Explore the Mahanavami Dibba, a grand platform used for royal ceremonies and festivals, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ruins. Discover the Royal enclosures, including the King's Palace, Queen's Bath, and the public audience hall, reflecting the opulence of the Vijayanagara kings. Marvel at the Statue of Ugra Narasimha Temple, an imposing monolithic sculpture of Lord Narasimha, a fierce avatar of Lord Vishnu. Visit Virupaksha Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its towering gopuram and vibrant annual festivals. Explore the Vithala Temple Complex, famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars that produce melodic sounds when struck. See Lotus Mahal, a beautiful palace with a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, used as a social and recreational center. Visit the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Museum, housing a collection of artifacts, sculptures, and inscriptions from the Vijayanagara Empire. Spend the night at the hotel.

Day 13: Hampi - Cochin (flight)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Hubli airport for a flight to Cochin. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the night there.

Day 14: Cochin - Munnar (140kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Cochin's charming seaside area. Visit Fort Cochin, known for its colonial architecture and Chinese fishing nets, providing a picturesque setting along the waterfront. See St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India and the original burial site of explorer Vasco da Gama. Explore the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth, adorned with beautiful Belgian chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles. Visit Mattancherry Dutch Palace, featuring murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and portraits of Cochin's former rulers. Later, drive to Munnar and check in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 15: Munnar

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Munnar. Visit Pothamedu, a picturesque area known for its tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, offering stunning views of the lush green landscape. Explore the Mattupetty Dam and Reservoir, known for its water storage and hydroelectric projects, as well as its scenic surroundings. Take a trip to Rajamala hill station in Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, a rare mountain goat species. Visit Mattupetty Dairy Farm, known for its high-yielding cattle, and learn about the dairy farming process. Discover Echo Point, a scenic spot where the natural echo phenomenon occurs, offering beautiful views and a pleasant environment. Visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea production in the region and see the various stages of tea processing. Spend the night at the hotel.

Day 16: Munnar - Thekkady (110kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Thekkady via Ramakkalmedu. Stop at Frog Rock, a unique rock formation resembling a frog, offering a great photo opportunity and scenic views. See Turtle Rock, another interesting natural rock formation, adding to the unique geological features of the region. Visit the Kuravan & Kurathi twin-statue, a tribute to the tribals who played a significant role in the construction of the Idukki Dam, providing a cultural and historical context. In the evening, watch a Martial Arts & Kathakali Dance show, a traditional art form of Kerala that tells stories through dance and music, offering a glimpse into the local culture. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thekkady.

Day 17: Thekkady - Kumarakom (140kms)

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a boat safari at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy the serene boat ride and spot wildlife such as elephants, bison, deer, and a variety of birds, providing a unique wildlife experience in their natural habitat. After the safari, take a tour of a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla, and pick up some fragrant spices at the local market. Later, drive to Kumarakom and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kumarakom.

Day 18: Kumarakom - Alleppey

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the Alleppey boat jetty. Board a houseboat for a relaxing cruise through the backwaters, enjoying the sights of palm-fringed narrow canals, tiny hamlets, and lush green landscapes. Experience farming below sea level in one of the few areas in the world where this unique practice is carried out, providing a glimpse into the innovative agricultural techniques of the region. Witness the daily life of the locals, including traditional fishing methods, coir making, and local markets, offering an immersive cultural experience. Enjoy the sunset from the sun-deck of the houseboat, providing a tranquil and picturesque end to the day. Spend the night on the houseboat.

Day 19: Alleppey - Cochin (60kms)

Start the day with breakfast on the houseboat before disembarking and driving to Cochin for your departure transfer to the airport. If time permits, explore the city and visit popular attractions like Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, and the Jewish Synagogue, allowing you to see more of Cochin's rich history and culture. Depart for your onward journey with fond memories of your Kerala trip, taking with you the unique experiences and beautiful sights you have encountered throughout the tour.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 18 Nights' accommodation in selected price category 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.
  • Mumbai - Aurangabad - Hyderabad & Hubli - Cochin flight fare approx. INR 15,000 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

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