Mumbai is an archipelago of seven islands. Artifacts indicate human habitation since the Stone Age, with documented evidence dating back to 250 BC. In the 3rd century BC, the islands were part of the Maurya Empire. In 1534, the Portuguese appropriated the islands from the King of Gujarat, later ceding them to Charles II of England in 1661 as part of Catherine de Braganza's dowry. Subsequently, the islands were leased to the British East India Company in 1668.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Mumbai - Bangalore (By Flight)
Today, we embark on a city tour of Mumbai, visiting the Gateway of India, built to commemorate King George V's visit in 1911. Across from it, we explore the Prince of Wales Museum, showcasing a collection of ancient Indus Valley artifacts dating back to 2000 BC, along with valuable Tibetan and Nepali art. Later, we take a boat cruise from the Gateway of India to visit the Elephanta Caves, renowned for their rock-cut temples dating back to the 5th century CE. We also drive along Marine Drive, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea coastline from Nariman Point to Malabar Hill.
In the evening, we fly to Bangalore, known as the garden city for its spacious layout and blend of historic and modern architecture. A highlight is the Vidhana Soudha, a grand post-independence structure housing the state legislature and secretariat.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Bangalore - Mysore (By Surface)
Today, we embark on a guided tour of Bangalore, visiting the Tipu Sultan Palace, showcasing the Mughal-influenced architecture and history of its time. We also visit the ISKCON Temple, blending Dravidian and modern architectural styles, and Lal Bagh Garden, renowned for its year-round blooming red roses. Later, we drive to Mysore, the former capital of the Wodeyar kingdom, known for its palaces, gardens, and sacred temples.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Mysore Sightseeing
Today, we explore Mysore, starting with a visit to Srirangapatnam, the historic capital of Tipu Sultan, known for his resistance against British rule. We visit the Darya Daulat Bagh, Tipu Sultan's summer palace, and the majestic Maharaja Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace. We also visit Chamundi Hill, crowned by a 12th-century temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, and in the evening, we enjoy the enchanting Brindavan Gardens with its musical fountains.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Mysore - Hassan (By Surface)
Today, we drive to Hassan, founded in the 11th century and named after the goddess Hasanamba, the presiding deity of the town. Later, we visit the Chennakeshava Temple at Belur, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Hoysala architecture. We also visit the Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebid, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its intricate sculptures.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Today, we drive to Hospet, the former capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, once known as Nagalapura. The city, once glorious, was devastated in 1565 after the Battle of Talikota.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Hospet - Hampi - Hospet
Today is dedicated to exploring Hampi, the magnificent capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. We visit the Virupaksha Temple, still in use today and dedicated to Lord Shiva. We also explore Vittala Temple with its famous musical pillars and stone chariot, Elephant Stables, Queen's Bath, and Lotus Mahal.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Hospet - Badami via Pattadakkal & Aihole (By Surface)
In the morning, we drive to Badami, known for its rock-cut cave temples dating back to the 6th-8th centuries AD. En route, we visit Pattadakkal, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Chalukya architecture, and Aihole, known as the "Cradle of Indian Architecture," with over a hundred temples.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Badami City Tour
Today, we explore Badami, known for its Chalukya temples. We visit the group of temples on the hill next to the Bhutanatha tank, dedicated to various gods and goddesses, including Lord Shiva and Vishnu. We also visit the Jain rock-cut temple and the Mallikarjuna Temple.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Today, we drive to Hubli, historically known as Raya Hubli and Elaya Puravada Halli during ancient times. It became a significant commercial center during the Vijayanagar Empire.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Hubli - Goa (By Surface)
Today, we drive to Goa, once part of the Mauryan Empire and later ruled by the Chalukyas of Badami from 580–750 AD. Goa is renowned for its world heritage architecture, including the Bom Jesus Basilica, and its rich flora and fauna due to its location in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Goa (Leisure)
Enjoy a leisurely day in Goa.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Optional tour of Goa, visiting the old Goa Churches including Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sri Mangesh Temple, Dona Paula, and Miramar Beach.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Goa Airport Departure
Transfer to Goa airport for departure. Our tour concludes with a flight back to Mumbai for your onward journey.