Heritage Karnataka & Hampi Tour

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.