Package Best For
Uncover the grand legacy of Karnataka with this 10-day heritage tour exploring the ancient temples, royal cities, and archaeological wonders of South India. From the bustling city of Bangalore to the temple town of Hassan, the incredible ruins of Hampi, the Chalukyan rock-cut temples of Badami and Pattadakal, and ending on the golden beaches of Goa, this journey is a visual feast of South India’s rich cultural past. Perfect for travelers who crave stories etched in stone and hidden history beneath the earth, this itinerary takes you deep into India’s glorious Dravidian past.
Tour Highlights
- Bangalore – Karnataka’s capital and a blend of modern and colonial heritage
- Hassan – Gateway to the Hoyasala temples of Belur & Halebidu
- Hampi – Ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Badami – Chalukyan cave temples and red sandstone architecture
- Pattadakal – Architectural confluence of North and South Indian temple styles
- Goa – Leisure by the beach, Portuguese churches and colonial charm
Tour Itinerary
Day-1: Arrival in Bangalore
Welcome to Karnataka! On arrival at Bangalore International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Later, go on a half-day tour of Bangalore, visiting key attractions like Vidhan Soudha, the impressive government building, Cubbon Park, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, and the historic Bangalore Palace, inspired by Windsor Castle. If time allows, explore the local markets on Brigade Road and sample delicious South Indian cuisine. Overnight stay in Bangalore.
Day-2: Bangalore – Hassan (via Shravanabelagola) (Approx. 190 km / 4.5 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Hassan, stopping en route at Shravanabelagola, an important Jain pilgrimage site known for its towering 17-meter statue of Gommateshwara Bahubali, carved out of a single granite rock. After climbing around 600 steps (optional), enjoy breathtaking views and the peaceful ambiance of this sacred hill. Continue to Hassan and check in to your hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Hassan.
Day-3: Hassan – Excursion to Belur & Halebidu
After breakfast, take a full-day excursion to the Hoyasala temple towns of Belur and Halebidu. First, visit Chennakesava Temple in Belur, a masterpiece of intricate stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Later, proceed to Halebidu, home to the Hoysaleswara Temple, known for its elaborate sculptures, ornate pillars, and mythological friezes. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and return to Hassan by evening. Overnight stay in Hassan.
Day-4: Hassan – Hampi (Approx. 330 km / 6-7 hrs)
After an early breakfast, begin your scenic drive to the magical land of Hampi, once the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. Arrive in the late afternoon and check into your heritage-style hotel or guesthouse nestled amidst granite boulders. Spend the evening relaxing or exploring the small town atmosphere. Overnight stay in Hampi.
Day-5: Hampi – Full Day Heritage Tour
Today is dedicated to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, an open-air museum of majestic ruins and temples. Visit the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, followed by the Vittala Temple Complex, famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars. Explore the Royal Enclosure, including Queen’s Bath, Hazara Rama Temple, Lotus Mahal, and the Elephant Stables. Climb Matanga Hill or Hemakuta Hill for sunset views over the Tungabhadra River and boulder-strewn landscapes. Overnight stay in Hampi.
Day-6: Hampi – Leisure or Village Life Experience
Today is free to relax or explore more of Hampi at your own pace. Optional: Take a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River, visit Anegundi village across the river for a taste of rural Karnataka, or rent a bicycle to discover offbeat ruins scattered across the area. You can also visit Daroji Bear Sanctuary (seasonal) for a bit of wildlife exploration. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Hampi.
Day-7: Hampi – Badami (Approx. 140 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, depart for Badami, the ancient capital of the Chalukya dynasty. On arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. Later, visit the iconic Badami Cave Temples, carved into red sandstone cliffs and dedicated to Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Climb the steps to explore the detailed carvings of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and the Jain Tirthankaras. Enjoy a beautiful sunset over Agastya Lake, with views of temples and cliffs. Overnight stay in Badami.
Day-8: Badami – Pattadakal – Aihole – Badami
After breakfast, take a full-day excursion to two of the region’s most architecturally significant sites. Begin with Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its harmonious blend of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles. Visit temples like the Virupaksha, Mallikarjuna, and Papanatha Temples. Continue to Aihole, considered the cradle of Indian temple architecture, with over 100 temples scattered across the landscape. Return to Badami in the evening. Overnight stay in Badami.
Day-9: Badami – Goa (Approx. 250 km / 6 hrs)
After breakfast, begin your journey to Goa, where the heritage trail ends with golden beaches, colonial churches, and Portuguese charm. On arrival, check into your beach resort and relax. Spend the evening by the Arabian Sea watching the sunset or exploring nearby local markets. Overnight stay in Goa.
Day-10: Goa – Departure
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and spend your final hours in Goa at leisure – go for a beach walk, sip fresh coconut water, or shop for souvenirs. Later, transfer to Goa International Airport for your onward flight. Your journey through Karnataka’s heritage and temples ends with the soft sands and coastal breeze of Goa.
Note: Please note – This is a suggested itinerary and can be customized based on your comfort, interests, and travel schedule. We can modify the tour to include more time in Hampi, add beach days in Goa, or upgrade accommodations based on your preference.