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Timeless Temples & Deccan Delights: A South Indian Sojourn

0/5
Duration

18 Nights / 19 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Timeless Temples & Deccan Delights: A South Indian Sojourn offers a captivating exploration of South India’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes. Starting in Bangalore, you’ll delve into the city’s vibrant blend of modernity and tradition before journeying to Vellore to admire the grandeur of its golden temple and historic fort. In Chennai, uncover the ancient marvels of Kanchipuram and the dynamic cultural tapestry of the city. The tour continues to the coastal charm of Pondicherry and the architectural splendors of Thanjavur and Chettinad. Delve deeper into South India’s history with visits to Madurai, Hyderabad, and the architectural wonders of Gulbarga and Bijapur. Concluding in Hampi and Hassan, this journey weaves together timeless temples, majestic forts, and the exquisite artistry of South India’s Deccan region.

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 Bangalore

Arrive at Bangalore Airport and receive a warm welcome from our representative. Transfer to your hotel and unwind, enjoying leisure time to rest after your journey.

Day 2: Bangalore

Start with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Visit Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a sprawling 240-acre garden with a stunning glasshouse and an extensive collection of exotic plants. Explore Cubbon Park, offering a peaceful retreat with its lush greenery, historical statues, and colonial-era buildings. Tour Bangalore Palace, a grand Tudor-style mansion with ornate interiors and historical exhibits. Visit the Bull Temple, known for its massive Nandi bull statue and Dravidian architectural elements. Explore the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, a beautiful wooden structure with intricate carvings and historical significance. Wander around the UB City Mall, a modern shopping and entertainment complex with luxury boutiques and fine dining options.

Day 3: Bangalore - Vellore (220km)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a scenic drive to Vellore. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and refresh. Visit Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, a dazzling temple adorned with gold plating and exquisite architectural details. Explore Vellore Fort, a historic fort with imposing walls, a moat, and fascinating exhibits on the local history. Tour Jalakandeswarar Temple, a prominent Shiva temple with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere. Visit the Vellore Government Museum, showcasing local art, artifacts, and historical objects. Explore the Amirthi Zoological Park, a small yet intriguing zoo with a variety of animals and natural beauty.

Day 4: Vellore - Chennai (145km)

Have breakfast at your hotel before departing for Chennai. En route, visit Kanchipuram, often referred to as the "City of Thousand Temples." Explore Ekambareswarar Temple, renowned for its grand gopuram (gateway tower) and sacred banyan tree, which is over 3,000 years old. Visit Kailasanathar Temple, one of the oldest temples in Kanchipuram, known for its Dravidian architectural style and historic carvings. Tour Varadharaja Perumal Temple, famous for its intricate sculptures and vibrant history related to Hindu deities. Arrive in Chennai and visit Fort St. George, an important historical site with a museum displaying colonial artifacts and a St. Mary's Church, one of the oldest surviving churches in India. Walk along Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, enjoying the coastal breeze and local street food. Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an ancient temple with colorful Dravidian architecture and significant spiritual importance. Visit the Government Museum, housing a vast collection of art, ancient manuscripts, and historical relics.

Day 5: Chennai - Pondicherry (160km)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Pondicherry. Stop at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-cut temples and sculptures. Explore the Shore Temple, an ancient temple complex by the sea, renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Marvel at Arjuna's Penance, a massive bas-relief carving depicting mythological scenes and historical events. Visit the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic rock-cut temples each dedicated to different Hindu deities. Check in at your Pondicherry hotel and explore the French Quarter, with its charming colonial buildings, boutiques, and cafes. Visit Auroville, an experimental township promoting sustainable living and community development. Explore Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a peaceful retreat dedicated to the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Relax at Promenade Beach, enjoying the scenic views, serene ambiance, and tranquil environment.

Day 6: Pondicherry - Thanjavur (180km)

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Thanjavur. Stop en route to visit Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring intricate carvings and a unique architectural style. Explore the Great Living Chola Temples at Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing exquisite Chola architecture and ancient temple design. Visit the Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, renowned for its massive dome and impressive Chola-era artwork. Check in at your Thanjavur hotel and unwind after a day of exploration.

Day 7: Thanjavur - Chettinad (140km)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before starting your day in Thanjavur. Visit the Brihadeshwara Temple, a grand architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Vijayanagar Fort, known for its historical importance and architectural splendor. Tour the Thanjavur Art Gallery, featuring sculptures and artwork from various historical periods. Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library, a repository of ancient manuscripts and rare books. Drive to Chettinad, renowned for its unique mansions and rich culinary traditions. Discover Trichy, visiting Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a major pilgrimage site with elaborate carvings and architecture. Explore Rock Fort Temple, offering panoramic views of Trichy and showcasing ancient architectural styles. Visit Jambukeswarar Temple, known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.

Day 8: Chettinad - Madurai (90km)

Start with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Chettinad’s unique mansions. Admire the intricate woodwork, decorative tile work, and grand courtyards of Chettinad’s traditional homes. Drive to Madurai and visit Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural masterpiece dedicated to goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva, known for its colorful gopurams and intricate sculptures. Explore the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an opulent structure with grand columns and a rich history. Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum, offering insights into India’s independence struggle and Mahatma Gandhi’s life. Check in at your Madurai hotel and enjoy leisure time to explore the city or relax.

Day 9: Madurai - Hyderabad

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before exploring Madurai further. Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple again to explore areas missed previously. Tour the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace for a deeper understanding of its historical significance. Explore Gandhi Memorial Museum for insights into India’s history and Gandhi’s role in it. Transfer to Madurai Airport for your flight to Hyderabad. Upon arrival in Hyderabad, receive a warm welcome and check in at your hotel.

Day 10: Hyderabad

Begin with breakfast at your hotel before starting a city tour of Hyderabad. Visit Charminar, an iconic monument with four grand arches, surrounded by bustling markets and historical charm. Explore Golconda Fort, a historic fortress with impressive acoustics, ancient gates, and panoramic views of the city. Visit Qutub Shahi Tombs, a serene site with well-preserved tombs of the Qutub Shahi dynasty rulers. Tour Chowmahalla Palace, a grand royal residence with magnificent courtyards, lush gardens, and intricate architecture. Discover Salar Jung Museum, renowned for its vast collection of art, artifacts, and antiques from around the world. Explore the Ramoji Film City, a sprawling film studio complex with thematic attractions and behind-the-scenes tours.

Day 11: Hyderabad - Gulbarga (260km)

Start with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Gulbarga. En route, visit Bidar to explore Bidar Fort, a historical fortification with ancient architecture and expansive walls. Visit Bahmani Tombs, a series of impressive tombs showcasing the grandeur of the Bahmani dynasty. Explore Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, a significant Sikh pilgrimage site with peaceful surroundings and historical relevance. Continue to Gulbarga, check in at your hotel, and relax after the day’s journey.

Day 12: Gulbarga - Bijapur (170km)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before touring Gulbarga’s historical sites. Visit Gulbarga Fort, an impressive structure with medieval architecture and significant historical importance. Drive to Bijapur and check in at your hotel. Explore Gol Gumbaz, a monumental structure with the world’s second-largest dome and fascinating acoustics. Visit Ibrahim Rauza, an elegant mausoleum known for its symmetrical design and intricate carvings. Tour Jama Masjid, a grand mosque with a spacious courtyard and historical significance.

Day 13: Bijapur - Badami (120km)

Start with breakfast at the hotel before exploring Bijapur’s architectural wonders. Visit Malik-e-Maidan, a massive cannon symbolizing Bijapur’s historical might. Explore Bara Kaman, an unfinished architectural project showcasing ambitious designs. Tour Ibrahim Rouza, known for its exquisite artwork and architectural elegance. Drive to Badami, check in at your hotel, and relax.

Day 14: Badami

Have breakfast at the hotel before delving into Badami’s cave temples. Explore the Badami Cave Temples, rock-cut temples featuring stunning carvings and sculptures from ancient times. Visit the Bhutanatha Group of Temples, set against a scenic backdrop with breathtaking views and historical significance. Tour Badami Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and insights into the region’s history. Explore Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples with diverse architectural styles. Visit Aihole, another important archaeological site with ancient temples and historical significance.

Day 15: Badami - Hampi (180km)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on the drive to Hampi. En route, visit Gadag, known for its historic temples and architectural heritage. Explore Lakkundi, a site with ancient temples and intricate carvings. Arrive in Hampi, check in at your hotel, and relax.

Day 16: Hampi

Begin with breakfast at your hotel before exploring Hampi. Visit Virupaksha Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with stunning architecture and historical significance. Explore Vittala Temple, known for its intricate carvings and the iconic Stone Chariot. Visit Lotus Mahal, an elegant palace with unique architecture and historical importance. Tour Hazara Rama Temple, featuring elaborate carvings depicting the Ramayana epic. Explore the Royal Enclosure, a historic site with ruins of palaces, temples, and other royal structures. Marvel at the surreal boulder-strewn landscape of Hampi, adding a mystical charm to your visit.

Day 17: Hampi - Hassan (330km)

Start with breakfast at the hotel before driving to Hassan. En route, visit the Belur temple complex, renowned for its detailed Hoysala architecture and exquisite carvings. Explore the Halebidu temple complex, showcasing intricate sculptures and a rich history. Arrive in Hassan, check in at your hotel, and unwind.

Day 18: Hassan - Mysore (140km)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to Mysore. Visit Mysore Palace, a magnificent royal residence with opulent interiors and rich history. Explore Chamundi Hills, offering panoramic views of Mysore and a visit to the Chamundeshwari Temple. Visit St. Philomena's Church, a grand Gothic-style church with impressive architecture. Relax at Brindavan Gardens, known for its musical fountain and serene surroundings. Explore Mysore’s vibrant markets, offering a blend of local culture, crafts, and delicacies.

Day 19: Mysore - Bangalore (140km)

Have breakfast at the hotel before driving back to Bangalore. Conclude your journey with a transfer to Bangalore Airport or your preferred location, reflecting on the memorable experiences of South India’s Deccan and Dravidian heritage.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 18 Nights' 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.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Madurai - Hyderabad 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?
Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

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