Incredible India welcomes you to explore a slice of her marvels. The itinerary of India Tour will take you a journey to explore the hidden treasures of this Indian subcontinent.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Chennai. Visit Fort St. George, St. Mary's Church, Government Museum, St. Thomas Church, Kapaleeswarar Temple
Stop At: Fort St. George, St. George Street, Chennai (Madras) India
One of the Oldest British Constructions and East India Company's principal settlements in 1640. Neo classical style impressive buildings which hosts at present the seat of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The Flag Mast in the Fort St George, which was constructed by the British still stands with standing the ravages of nature. This is said to be the tallest flag mast in the country. The fort has been the seat of power for more than 300 years. After independence the fort served as the Administrative Head Quarters for the legislative Assembly of Tamil Nadu and the Secretariat for the past 64 years. The Fort Museum which is behind the Fort signifies the British royalty, the weapons, early coins, silverware, uniforms, manuscripts, engravings and the collections of the colonial past.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: St Mary's Church, Near Fort St. George On Fort St George administrative complex, Chennai (Madras) India
The first Anglican Church in India was constructed in 1678. This church is believed to be the oldest Protestant church in the East, is situated inside the fort. It was here that the marriages of the then Governor of Madras Elihu Yale - the one who established the Yale University in USA and Robert Clive was solemnized. The tomb stones found in its courtyard are the oldest British tombstones in India. Memorials, ancient bibles, paintings in the church speak of its vibrant history. This church is under the control of Archeological Survey of India.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Government Museum, Pantheon Road, Chennai (Madras) India
This complex of cultural institutions derives its name from the Pantheon, where the Public Assembly Rooms were housed in the 18th century. The Indo-Saracenic Government Museum, with its faded red walls and labyrinth of staircases and interconnecting galleries, is spread over five sections of a large complex.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: St Thomas Church, 38, 1st St, Balaji Nagar, Nanganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600061, India
This church is declared as the National Shrine of Santhome Basilica, built over the tomb of the great Apostle St.Thomas, who came to India in 52 A.D. to spread the Christianity. In the whole world, there are only three churches built over the tomb of an Apostle of Jesus Christ - The Basilica of Saint Peter built over the tomb of St. Peter in Rome, Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela built over the tomb of St.James in Spain and Basilica of the National shrine of St. Thomas built over the tomb of St.Thomas in Chennai. There is an underground chapel for the disciples and tourists to look in to the tomb not to disturb the regular activities of the Basilica.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004, India
This ancient Siva Temple, with its massive and intricately carved Gopuram towering into the sky, is situated in the southern suburb of Mylapore. Kapalam means "bowl of skull". Lord Shiva or Eswara is standing with ascetic''s bowl of skull in his hand. As per the legend at the time of dissolution of cosmos nothing remains except Lord Eswara with bowl of skull. A 16th century temple which highlights the Dravidian architecture was built by the Vijayanagara dynasty with colorful towers in the eastern and western sides along with the sacred tank facing the western tower.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Chennai - 3 Star Hotel
Day 2: Drive to Mahabalipuram. Visit Sea Shore Temple, Five Chariots, Arjuna's Penance, Krishna's Butter Ball, Varaha Cave etc.
Stop At: Sea Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram India
This World Heritage UNESCO site is situated near by the sea shore. This is one of the oldest temple in South India, enclosed by a row of bulls carved out of rock. This majestic temple was built by King Rajasimha in the later half of the Seventh century.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Pancha Rathas, Kancheepuram District, Mahabalipuram 603104 India
The 7th Century monolithic rock-cut shrines called Pancha (five) Pandava Rathas - "Processional temple chariots" is named after the five Pandava brothers, heroes of the epic Mahabharatha and their queen "Draupadi". Out of these, the Dharmaraja Ratha is the biggest and the best out of the Five Rathas.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Arjuna's Penance, West Raja Street Near Ganesha Ratha, Mahabalipuram 603104 India
This brilliant bas-relief is also known as the Bhagiratha Penance or "Descent of the holy river Ganges".This glorious panel depicts the river Ganges descent from the sky. A sage doing penance standing on one foot, Shiva carrying trident, a small temple of Vishnu, a family of elephants, deer, lions, boar, rats, serpents, birds, semi celestial bodies are some of the eye catching sculptures in the great panel.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Krishna's Butter Ball, E Raja St, Mahabalipuram 603104 India
Krishna's Butterball (also known as Vaan Irai Kal[1] and Krishna's Gigantic Butterball) is a gigantic granite boulder resting on a short incline in the historical town of Mahabalipuram. The boulder is approximately 6 meters high and 5 meters wide and weighs around 250 tons.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Varaha Cave Temple, Kancheepuram District, Mahabalipuram India
Varaha Cave Temple is a rock-cut cave temple located at Mamallapuram, on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal in Kancheepuram District in Tamil Nadu, India. It is part of the hill top village, which is 4 kilometres to the north of the main Mahabalipurm sites of rathas and the Shore Temple.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram - 3 Star Hotel
Day 3: Visit Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple, Kailasanathar Temple. Then drive to Puducherry and visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram
Stop At: Ekambareswarar Temple, Ekambaranathar Sannidhi Street, Kanchipuram 631502 India
This temple is dedicated to Shiva and is one of the largest temple in Kanchipuram, covering 12 hectares. It was originally built by the Pallavas in the 6th Century and then expanded by the Cholas and the Vijayanagara Kings. The presiding deity Shiva is worshipped here as Prithvi Lingam (Lingam of Earth).
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Kailasanathar Temple, Tharappakkam Rd, Vigneshwara Nagar, Tharapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600116, India
The oldest and grandest structured temple in Kanchipuram built in the early 8th century by the Pallava kings. This temple is surrounded by the 58 tiny shrines, each with the splendid carvings of the various representations of Shiva. The sanctum has a circumambulatory passage with great symbolic meaning - seven steps (indicating seven births) lead to a dark passage (indicating the journey of life) and a narrow outlet (indicating death).
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Rue de la Marine, Pondicherry India
Founded in 1926, this ashram is situated in the eastern part of the busy city. The Ashram serves for the community located in the vibrant centre of modern urban setting. Sri Aurobindo and the Mother (also known as Mirra Alfasa, Parisien) worked jointly for the welfare of the community.
Everyday, the cemetery was decorated with variety of flowers of different colors because the Mother loved it very much. In 1952, the Mother established Sri Aurobindo International Centre of Education, and in 1968 an international township-Auroville.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mahatma Gandhi Road Sacred Heart Square, Pondicherry 605001 India
Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, situated on the south boulevard of Pondicherry in Puducherry, India, is an oriental specimen of Gothic architecture. It contains rare stained glass panels depicting events from the life of Christ and saints of the Catholic Church.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Puducherry - 3 Star Hotel
Day 4: Drive and visit Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple and Darasuram Temple
Stop At: Gangai Konda Cholapuram Shri Brahadeeswara Thirukovil, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Tamil Nadu 612901, India
The city was founded by Rajendra Chola I to commemorate his victory over the Pala Dynasty. The name means The town of the chola who took over Ganga (water from Ganga) or who defeated (the kings near) Ganga.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Darasuram Temple, Darasuram, Gurunathan Pillai Colony, Darasuram, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu 612702, India
This architectural small town is known for the Airavateswara temple constructed by the Rajaraja Chola in the 12th century AD. In 2004, the temple was recognized as an UNESCO World protected monument. This temple is one of the finest examples of the Dravidian Architecture and named after the mythical white elephant, Airavat, who is known for his devotion to Lord Shiva.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Thanjavur - 3 Star Hotel
Day 5: Visit Thanjavur Art Gallery, Thanjavur Big Temple and drive to Trichy, visit Amma Mandapam, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
Stop At: Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery, Art Gallery, Thanjavur 613001 India
The Art Gallery was housed in the palace area of Maratha Dynasty. Formerly, the construction of this palace was originated by the Nayaka dynasty in the 17th century. Later, the area was expanded and lot of developments was undertaken by the Maratha rulers between 18th and19th century. The palace depicts the Indo-Islamic Architecture. Even today, the generations of the Maratha rulers are still living in the residential area controlling the activities of the Palace.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Brihadeeswara Temple, Membalam Rd, Balaganapathy Nagar, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007, India
Lord Brahadeeshwarar Temple, Thanjavur built in between 985 AD - 1013 AD by the Great King Raja Raja Chola is a World Heritage Monument. Later rulers of the region Pandiyas, Nayaks and Marathas have contributed to the development of the temple. Brihadeshwara Temple (Tamil:Peruvudaiyar Kovil) is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It is located in Thanjavur in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is also known as Periya Kovil, RajaRajeswara Temple and Rajarajeswaram.It is one of the largest temples in India. Brihadeshwara is an example of Hindu architecture from South India from the Chola period. It was built by Raja (Tirupur) and emperor Raja Raja Chola I and completed in 1010 AD. The temple turned 1000 years old in 2010.The temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Great Living Chola Temples", along with Brihadeeswarar Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara temple
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam 7 km north of Tiruchy, Tiruchirappalli 620006 India
This city is the most important sacred pilgrimage center for Hindus. The temple is also termed as "Paradise on the earth". This temple ranks the first among the 108 holy shrines for Lord Vishnu. Here Vishnu is named as "Ranganatha" and the temple was originated in 12th century by the Chola dynasty and later expanded by other dynasties in the following centuries. The temple area is very massive consists of 21 towers and 7 entrances. There is a view point inside the temple to get a full panoramic view of all the towers with a golden roof at its center is incredible.
Duration: 3 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Trichy - 3 Star Hotel
Day 6: Drive to Chettinad and enjoy Village visit by Bullock Cart
Stop At: karaikudi, Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu 630561, India
Village Visit by Bullock Cart, Ceramic Tiles Making in Athangudi Village, Weaving Centre, Public School etc
Duration: 3 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Chettinad - 3 Star Hotel
Day 7: Drive to Madurai and visit Thirumalai Nayaka Palace
Stop At: Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, Near Meenakshi Temple, Madurai India
This palace belongs to the 17th Century built by the Nayak King Tirumalai with the help of Italian architect. The architecture of the palace is the Indo-Saracenic which is the fusion of Dravidian, Islamic and European styles. The building, which can be seen today, was the main Palace where the king lived.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Madurai - 3 Star Hotel
Day 8: Visit Thiruparankundram Temple, Gandhi Museum, Meenakshi Amman Temple
Stop At: Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, Thiruparankundram India
Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple or Subramanya Swamy Temple is a Hindu temple and one of the Six Abodes of Murugan, located at Thiruparankundram. The temple is built in rock-cut architecture and believed to have been built by the Pandyas during the 6th century.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Gandhi Memorial Museum, Tamukkam, Madurai 625020 India
This museum is housed in the old palace of Rani Mangammal of 17th century. The museum depicts the highlights of the freedom struggle and contains a picture gallery of the Gandhian movement. There is a gallery of relics, khadi and village industries section and a South Indian Handicrafts section.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Venmani Rd, Sellur, Madurai 625002 India
This enormous temple complex is dedicated to the consort of Lord Shiva, Parvati or Meenakshi (The eyes of the goddess is so beautiful as the eyes and eyebrows of the fish). This temple was built by the early pandyas in the 13th century and was later extended by the succeeding dynasties like Vijayanagara and Nayaka. There is a thousand pillared hall with decorative sculptures with bright illumination makes one to feel the artistic reality of the ancient period.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Madurai - 3 Star Hotel
Day 9: Drive to Thekkady (Periyar).
Stop At: Thekkady - Kannaki Temple Rd, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala 685509, India
Thekkady to enjoy a cultural and ecological mix. And experience the traditional ayurvedic massage here
Duration: 5 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Thekkady - 3 Star Hotel
Day 10: Enjoy Wildlife Tour and Spice Plantation Tour at Thekkady
Stop At: Thekkady - Kannaki Temple Rd, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala 685509, India
Enjoy wildlife activities like Boat Ride in Forest Lake, Guided Spice Plantation Walk, Jeep Safari (optional), "Kalaripayattu" martial art show!
Duration: 3 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Thekkady - 3 Star Hotel
Day 11: Drive to Kumarakom. Visit the Kumarakom Birds Sanctuary
Stop At: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom India
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary) is situated at Kumarakom in Kottayam taluk of Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala, on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Set in the Kerala Backwaters, the bird sanctuary is a favourite haunt of migratory birds.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Kumarakom - 3 Star Hotel
Day 12: Full day free to relax in the Kumarakom backwater resort
Stop At: Kerala House Boats & Backwaters, Kottayam - Kumarakom Rd, Athikkalam, Kumarakom, Kerala 686566, India
Full day free to relax in the backwater resort!
Duration: 10 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Kumarakom - 3 Star Hotel
Day 13: Drive to Alleppey (Alappuzha) and enjoy the beauty of backwaters in houseboat.
Stop At: Alleppey Backwaters, Alappuzha India
In the afternoon, check-in the Air-conditioned Houseboat (also known as Kettuvallam) at about 12:30 pm in Kumarakom and have your delicious lunch and dinner in the houseboat. You can have the backwater cruise for about four hours by passing through the canals and see the real life activities of the people on the backwaters. In the evening, the houseboat will be stopped at one place. Have a dinner and comfortable stay in the houseboat.
Duration: 10 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Alappuzha Houseboat
Day 14: Drive to Kochi and visit Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
Stop At: Mattancherry Palace, Palace Road, Kochi (Cochin) India
The palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557 for the rulers of Kochi. In 1663, the palace was completely remodeled and the exterior of the palace resembles the European architecture. The Palace and the Jewish Synagogue shares the common wall.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Paradesi Jewish Synagogue, Synagogue Ln, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002, India
Founded in 1568, destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662 and restored in 1664 by the Dutch. The corner tower has clocks on four sides in different scripts (Malayalam, Hebrew, Roman and Arabic). The floor tiles, blue and white in color were brought from China. Three scrolls of Torah are kept in gilded and embossed containers of metal.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Church of Saint Francis, Old Kochi, Kochi (Cochin) India
This church is reputed to be the earliest European-Christian place of worship. The original structure was built by the Portuguese made out of the timber wood in 1503. In 1795, this was converted to an Anglican Church by the British.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Parade & KB Jacob Road Fort Cochin, Kochi (Cochin) 682001 India
One of the oldest Cathedrals in Cochin and as well as in India. This catholic place of worship lies south of the Church of St.Francis. This church was built by the Portuguese and Pope Paul IV elevated it to a cathedral in 1558. In 1795, the British demolished and rebuilt in the neo-classical style and proclaimed the status as Basilica in 1984 by Pope John Paul II. The pulpit is carved on wood and also the ceiling is extraordinary for its paintings.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi Beach Kochi-682001 Kerala India, Kochi (Cochin) 682001 India
Chinese fishing nets (Cheena vala) are a type of stationary lift net in India. They are fishing nets that are fixed land installations for fishing. While commonly known as "Chinese fishing nets" in India, the more formal name for such nets is "shore operated lift nets".
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Kochi - 3 Star Hotel
Day 15: Longest drive to Ooty also called as "The Queen of hill stations"
Stop At: Ooty hills station, Kathadimattam, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001, India
In the morning drive to Ooty also called as Nilgiris "The Queen of hill stations". Enroute you can able to see beautiful landscapes, vegetation, misty mountains and the houses.
Duration: 15 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Ooty - 3 Star Hotel
Day 16: Enjoy the Ooty Hill Station Tour by visiting Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, St. Stephen's Church
Stop At: Botanical Gardens, Vannarapettai, Ooty (Udhagamandalam) 643002 India
This sprawling 50-acre garden houses more than 1000 varieties of plant, shrub, and tree including orchids, ferns, alpins and medicinal plants. During the peak season (April-May), agri-horticultural show, spring flower show and dog show are held. The annual flower show is held in the third week of May.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Rose Garden, The Nilgiris, Ooty (Udhagamandalam) India
Ooty Centenary Rose Garden is the largest rose garden in the country and is a 10-acre spectacle housing over 20,000 different kinds of roses, including Floribunda, Hybrid Tea Roses, Miniature Roses, Papagena and Polyanthus, among others.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: St. Stephen's Church, Ooty, Ooty (Udhagamandalam) 643001 India
The church dates back to the 19th century. Stephen Rumbold Lushington, the then Governor of Madras, who keenly felt the need for a church in Ooty exclusively for the British, laid the foundation for the church on April 23, 1829, to coincide with the birthday of King George IV. St. Stephen''s Church.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Ooty - 3 Star Hotel
Day 17: Drive to Adventure Tour in Bandipur
Stop At: Bandipur National Park and Tiger Reserve, Mysore and Chamarajanagar districts, Bandipur 571126 India
India's one of the best-known wildlife reserves situated at the foothills of the Nilgiri mountains. This national park is flanked by Karnataka's Nagarhole National Park to its northwest, Tamil Nadu's Mudumalai Wildlife sanctuary to its south, and Kerala's Wayanad Wildlife sanctuary to its southwest.
Bandipur has mostly dry deciduous forests. This park houses tigers, Asiatic wild dogs, jungle cats, mangoose, jackal, Indian giant squirrel, deers, wild pig, rats, reptiles like python, snake, cobra, watersnakes, flying-lizards and more than 250 species of birds.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Bandipur - 3 Star Hotel
Day 18: Drive to Mysuru (Mysore) and relax
Stop At: Mysuru Airport, Kozhikode-Mysore-Kollegal Hwy, Mysuru, Karnataka 571311, India
The capital city of Wodeyar dynasty who ruled uninterrupted from 1399 until independence, except the 38 years rule of Tipu Sultan, a Muslim Invader in the 18th century.
This city is renowned for its sandalwood,silk and ivory work. It is a very clean city, well maintained roads with tree-lined streets. This city is surrounded by beautiful palaces, wonderful parks with clean roads, museums, colorful markets, commercial streets and art galleries. Many heritage buildings was transformed for public sectors.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Mysuru - 3 Star Hotel
Day 19: Visit Devaraja Market, Somnathpur Temple, Chamundi Hills, Mysore Palace
Stop At: Chennakesava Temple, Somanathapura, Somanathapura, Mysuru, Somnathpur India
A little village that houses the 13th century Keshava Temple, a finest representation of Hoysala architecture. The temple has three star-shaped shrines and the basements of this temple was beautifully carved with floral designs and series of animal patterns while the images of gods and goddesses occupy the above wall. The interior hall has decorative columns with varied motif that adds beauty to the temple. The three shrines are dedicated to three forms of Lord Krishna playing flute.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Chamundi Hills, Mysuru (Mysore) India
Temple with Quadrangular Structure...
A 1062 m hill that houses the 12th century Dravidian style temple dedicated to goddess Chamundeshwari - the principal deity of the Wodeyars. On the way there is a bull temple where we can see the 5 m monolithic granite bull, Nandi the vehicle for Lord Shiva. We can catch an excellent panoramic view of the Mysore city from the top of the summit.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Mysore Palace, Office Of The Deputy Director, Mysuru Palace Board, Mysuru (Mysore) 570001 India
The magnificent Mysore Palace is also known as "Amba Vilas Palace", a treasure house of exquisite carvings and beautiful paintings built by the Wodeyar dynasty. This palace was built based on Indo-Saracenic architecture with large domes, arches and pillars and it was designed by Italian architect Henry Irwin in 1897.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Mysuru - 3 Star Hotel
Day 20: Drive and visit Hoysaleshwara temple at Halebid, Chennakesava temple at Belur
Stop At: Hoysaleshwara Temple, Halebeedu, Karnataka 573121, India
The isolated capital city of Hoysala dynasty founded in the early 11th century. The only finest example of Hoysala architecture at Halebid is Hoysaleshwara Temple.
The intricate carvings depicting the hindu deities, sages, animals and the friezes of the life of hoysala rules are some of the highlights of the temple.
There is a jain temple at the back of the hoysaleswara temple which remains always very cool because of its granite columns and the sculptures of many tirtankaras.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Chennakesava Temple, Belur 573115 India
This city is the capital city of Hoysala Dynasty before it was moved to Halebid. The Chennakesava temple dedicated to Lord Krishna was built in 1117A.D. by vishnuvardhana to commemorate the victory of Hoysalas over the Chola Kingdom.
This temple was declared as the one of the crowns of hoysala architecture. A main tower was erected by the Vijayanagara kings in the 16th century.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Hassan - 3 Star Hotel
Day 21: Drive to Chitradurga Fort and then to Hospet
Stop At: Chitradurga Fort, State Highway 48, Chitradurga India
A 17th century grand fort is located at the base of the chained hills. The Fort of seven rounds built by Nayaks is renowned for its defense that includes 19 gateway sand 35 secret entrances. There are several small temples here as well as number of ceremonial gateways erected in the 18th century. This fort was occupied by the Muslim Invader Tipu Sultan in the 18th century and then finally by the British.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Hospet - 3 Star Hotel
Day 22: Full day visit of UNESCO World Heritage Monumental Tour in Hampi
Stop At: Virupaksha Temple, Rambo, Hampi India
Virupaksha or Pampapati Temple has been, for centuries, considered the most religious of the temples at Hampi. It is situated on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra river. The temple complex lies within a long rectangular enclosure divided into two large courts. The lofty eastern tower gives access to the outer court, while a smaller, inner tower in the east leads to the inner court containing the main sanctum with its subsidiary shrines. The 52 m high tower in the east is the main entrance to the temple. The sanctum has an outer hall with ornate pillars and the panels of Vijayanagara paintings. The themes of the paintings are the legends of the great kingdom of Vijayanagara. Facing the Virupaksha temple is the once impressive Hampi Bazaar (about 10.6 m it lies wide and 732 m long) with double storeyed colonnaded structure flanking its sides. Though it lies in ruins today, it once served as one of the important bazaars in the city.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Kadalekalu Ganesha, Bazaar Street, Hampi India
A monolith, ironically called Kadalekalu or gram seed Ganesha is a huge seated figure carved out of a massive boulder, is around 4.5 m high and enshrined in a large temple with an open-pillared hall in front. The tall, slender and graceful pillars are of the cubical ornate structure and the hall is of classical style for its architectural proportions. A panoramic view of Hampi can be obtained from the temple.
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Statue of Ugra Narsimha, Temple Complex, Hampi India
A huge monolith, 6.7 m high, stands within a walled enclosure. It is a four-armed seated figure of Narasimha, but all the arms are broken now. A large seven-hooded serpent curls above it head. Originally there was a figure of Lakshmi seated on Narasimha left thigh. The deity is seated between two ornate pilasters. Note especially the remnant of Lakshmi arm was originally placed around Narasimha waist. Only the shapely hand remains intact. The ravages of time had left the statue badly mutilated but conservation efforts helped it become one of the most striking monuments in Vijayanagar today.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Hazara Rama Temple, Near Zenana Enclosure And Lotus Mahal, Hampi India
This small but highly ornate temple is no longer in use and the sanctum is empty but originally it was dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Rama. The name Hazara-Rama denotes Thousand Ramas carved on the temple walls. This palace temple is close to the Royal enclosure. The outer walls are richly carved in bold bas-relief and depict scenes from the Ramayana. At the centre of the inner hall, there are four exquisitely carved and polished pillars of the black stone. The ornate central ceiling has the usual alternating square courses with a finely carved lotus motif in the middle. This temple is a veritable picture gallery. Its walls and pillars capture the immortal legends of the Ramayana in stone.
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Stepped Tank, Hampi India
The tank is totally different from other structures of Hampi as the Stepped Tank is constructed using finely finished blocks of black schist stones.
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Mahanavami(dasara) Dibba, Hampi, The Great Platform, Karnataka 583239, India
This massive east facing platform rises to a height of 12 m and is built in three diminishing tiers. The first tier and the one above measures 40 and 24 square m respectively and is built of well dressed massive granite blocks. The Mahanavami Dibba was the hub of religious ceremonies like Durga Puja, Navarathiri, Diwali that were celebrated by the Vijayanagar Kings.
Duration: 15 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Hosapete - 3 Star Hotel
Day 23: Full day visit of UNESCO World Heritage Monumental Tour in Hampi
Stop At: Vijaya Vittala Temple, Near Kalyan Mantapa, Hampi 583239 India
Vitthala temple depicts the art and architecture of the Vijayanagara Empire. The corridors have three massive gateways that are adorned with lofty towers in the north, east and south. This temple stands in a large rectangular enclosure. All along the enclosure walls on the interior side are pillared colonnades. The main temple was dedicated to Vishnu as Vitthala.
Duration: 1 minute
Stop At: Lotus Mahal, Nera Hazara Ram Temple, Hampi India
Lotus Mahal is a two-storeyed structure that is a blend of Indian and Islamic secular architectural styles. It is built on a moulded stone. Arches supported by twenty-four square pillars carry the super-structure. Originally, there appears to have been a large amount of lime-plaster and stucco ornamentation along the exterior. The interior of the building is severely plain and the ceiling consists of vaults and domes systematically arranged. The central bay has a plain flat-coffered ceiling decorated with a lotus bud at the centre. The upper storey has a number of balconies with windows having foilated arches. This super-structure consists of nine pyramidal sikharas (domes) of varying sizes, the central one being the the tallest. In their original state these were fully decorated, painted and is covered with polished lime plaster work. In earlier times, the king may have spent time with scholars well-versed in literature, music and art.
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Elephant Stables, Hampi India
This long, lofty and dignified building has eleven large chambers with beautiful arched entrances. The ceilings of the chambers have lotus motifs. The domes over the roof are of different types - circular, ribbed ones and octagonal and are systematically arranged on either side of the central chamber.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Queen's Bath, Royal Enclosure, Hampi India
Queen''s Bath is a large, square structure with a plain exterior and an ornate interior. It has a bath, 15 m square and 1.8 m deep, surrounded by decorated corridors and projecting balconies. Some remnants of elaborate stucco work and variegated designs are visible on the ceilings of each bay. It is located near the Royal Enclosure. It was used by the women of noble families and occasionally by the King himself.
Duration: 15 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Two more night stay in Hospet - 3 Star Hotel
Day 24: Drive and visit Aihole Durga Temple, Pattadakal monuments
Stop At: Aihole, Bagalkot district India
The dusty town situated on the banks of the Malaprabha river houses the largest and finest monuments around 22 in number at Aihole.
The temples are dated from 6th to 11th centuries by the Badami Chalukyas. Out of these, the most outstanding is the Durga Temple because of its semi-circular sanctum with spacious columns.
Aihole is the cradle of the Hindu architecture. The outer architecture of this temple is same as the today's Indian Parliament.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Group of Monuments in Pattadakal, Pattadakal India
The sacred temple complex consists of series of temples built during the 8th century by the chalukyas was declared as the World Heritage Site by the UNESCO for its artistic achievements. The temples are based on both Northern Nagara style and Southern Dravidian style architecture. All the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Virupaksha Temple is the only functioning temple among all the temples and in front there is a Nandi pavilion with a beautifully carved bull. It's a wonderful experience to see all the temples in the same place. The temples are listed below.
Jambulinga Temple
Kada Siddeshwara Temple
Galaganatha Temple
Sangameshwara Temple
Virupaksha Temple
Mallikarjuna Temple
Papanatha Temple
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Badami - 3 Star Hotel
Day 25: Visit Badami Cave Temple, Agastya Lake, Bhoothanatha Temple
Stop At: Badami Cave Temples, Badami India
This historic town was the ancient capital of the powerful Chalukya dynasty, who ruled the Deccan between 6th and 7th centuries AD.This rock-cut structural monument is situated between two red sandstone cliffs and a dam to the east that forms a large reservoir called Agastyatheertha.
There are four rock-cut cave temples, the first one is dedicated for Lord Shiva, the second and third for Lord Vishnu, the last one is for Jain worship.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Agastya Lake, Near Bhuthanatha Temple, Badami India
The Agastya Lake (Tirtha) is a huge lake located beneath the cave temples. Constructed in 5th century, the lake is considered holy due to the healing powers of its water. A bath in it is believed to destroy all sins according to Hindu mythology.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Bhootnath Temple (Eastern Complex), Badami, Karnataka 587201, India
Bhoothanatha Temple is a magnificent structure situated on the banks of Agasthya Lake. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Boothanatha Temple is most striking structure of Badami and prime promotional element of Badami Tourism. The temple is surrounded by water on three sides. The temple was constructed in early 8th century by Chalukya's. Constructed in Dravidian style, the temple is emerged into the Agastya Lake and becomes inaccessible during peak monsoons when the water level in the lake reach the full capacity.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Badami - 3 Star Hotel
Day 26: Drive to Goa. Relax and enjoy the Goa Beach Tour in beach resort.
Stop At: Old Goa, Goa Velha India
Relax and enjoy the Goa Beach Tour
Duration: 10 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Goa - 3 Star Hotel
Day 27: Relax and enjoy the Goa Beach Tour in beach resort
Stop At: Old Goa, Goa Velha India
Relax and enjoy the Goa Beach Tour
Duration: 10 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Goa - 3 Star Hotel
Day 28: Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Francis of Assisi Church
Stop At: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa Road, Goa Velha 403402 India
Oldest Church in Goa & in India...
In the 16th century,Christianity was introduced by the Portuguese. There are many breathtaking churches are found at Old Goa. Basilica of Bom Jesus is the legendary church, which preserves the sacred remains of St.Francis Xavier and this church has been declared a World Heritage Monument.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: St. Francis of Assisi Church, Colvale, Goa 403513, India
The Convent and Church of St.Francis of Assisi is situated in Old Goa. This Church was found in the year 1517 during the Portuguese rule. The chapel was transformed into a Church in 1661.
The structure is built of laterite blocks and is lime-plastered. Adjacent to the church, there is an archaeological museum that houses the pre-historic items from the tribal past and also the reminders of the Goa.
The Church has been designed by the Tuscan order and in baroque with Corinthian features. Interior of this church was beautifully carved with gilded main altar depicts the crucified Jesus, St.Francis and Our Lady with her baby Jesus.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Two more nights stay in Goa - 3 Star Hotel
Day 29: Fly from Goa to Aurangabad and visit Ellora Caves
Stop At: Ellora Caves, Ellora Cave Rd Ahead of Hiranya Reosrts, Aurangabad 431005 India
Ellora Caves are ancient historical caves locally known as 'Verul Leni'. They were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. The Ellora Caves are an impressive complex of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain Cave temples. The caves have a slightly less dramatic setting than those at Ajanta, but more exquisite sculptures. The cave complex comprises of 34 caves that were hewn out of solid rocks of the Charanandri hills. The Ellora complex includes 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu and 5 Jain Caves. The coexistence of structures from three different religions serves as a splendid visual representation of the prevalent religious tolerance of India.
Duration: 5 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Aurangabad - 3 Star Hotel
Day 30: Visit Ajanta Caves
Stop At: Ajanta Caves Road, Ajanta 431001 India
Ajanta Caves are one of the oldest UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India and also one of the top historical places in Maharashtra. The Caves were carved between 2nd Century BC and 6th Century AD. Construction of the caves was carried out in two phases; the first group of caves was built around 2nd Century BC, while the second group was built between 4th & 6th centuries. Ajanta Caves are excavated in horseshoe shaped bend of rock surface nearly 76 m in height overlooking the Waghur River. These caves were rediscovered by an Army Officer in Madras Regiment of British Army in 1819 during one of his hunting expeditions. The complex consists of 29 rock-cut cave monuments built in two distinct periods, out of which one part of the complex was developed during the Satavahana period and the other was done during Vakataka period.
Duration: 5 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Aurangabad - 3 Star Hotel
Day 31: Fly from Aurangabad to Mumbai
Stop At: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099, India
Arrive Mumbai Airport and get transferred to the hotel!
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in Mumbai - 3 Star Hotel
Day 32: Visit Siddhivinayak Temple, Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and Dhobi Ghat
Stop At: Siddhivinayak Temple, Almeda compound, Pratikhsha Nagar, Koliwada, Sion, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400022, India
Siddhivinayak Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh and the temple was originally built by Laxman Vithu and Deubai Patil on November 1801 AD. The old temple had an ancient architectural style, consisting of a hall, a sanctum sanctorum, some free open space, the temple's administrative office to the right and a water tank in the front. It is one of the most beloved temples among Mumbai people.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, 159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Lion Gate, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023, India
Prince of Wales Museum, is one of the premier art and history museums situated on the southern tip of Mumbai. It was built to honor and commemorate the visit of King George V to India.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Gateway of India, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai 400001 India
Gateway of India is a national heritage monument located at the waterfront facing Arabian Sea. Built in Indo-Saracenic style, the foundation stone was laid on 1911 and the construction of the monument was completed in 1924.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, DN Road Mumbai CST Area, Mumbai India
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, formerly known as Victoria Terminus, is the most important train station & heritage building situated in Dadabhai Naoroji Road. Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on July 2004, Victoria Terminus is Mumbai's historical landmark of Mumbai City. Designed by Frederick William Stevens, a British architect, Victoria Terminus is a wonderful example of the Indo-Victorian Gothic architectural style. The construction of this iconic landmark was commenced in 1787 CE to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria and work went on till 1887 CE, when it was finally opened for public use.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Dhobi Ghat, Dr. E. Moses Rd. near Mahalakshmi Station, Mumbai India
Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai's 140 year-old, open-air laundromat, and that approximately half a million pieces of clothing are sent there from hotels, hospitals, and homes daily.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: One more night stay in Mumbai - 3 Star Hotel
Day 33: Visit Elephanta Caves and Bandra-Worli Sea Link
Stop At: Elephanta Caves, Mumbai India
Elephanta Caves, a network of sculpted caves located on Elephanta Island or Gharapuri in Mumbai Harbour. The Caves, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Mumbai's oldest historic sites. It is believed that the Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas were behind the creation of the caves and sculptures. The island was ruled by the Chalukyas and later by the Gujarat sultanate. It was later handed over by the Gujarat Sultan to Portuguese in 1534 AD.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mumbai 400030 India
Bandra-Worli Sea Link, officially called Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, is a cable bridge linking Bandra in the Western Suburbs of Mumbai with Worli in South Mumbai. It is now the longest sea bridge surpassing the previous record of Rameswaram-Pamban sea link!
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Two more nights stay in Mumbai - 3 Star Hotel
Day 34: Departure from Mumbai
Stop At: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400099, India
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Mumbai) International Airport for your flight back home
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.
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Ooty, India
