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India: History and Heritage of Karnataka

India: History and Heritage of Karnataka

11 Days from $3,390 USD / person
Itinerary Summary
Itinerary Details
Price & Inclusions
Guest Reviews

Ideal For

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Itinerary Summary

Day
Place
Hotel Opts
1 – 3
Bangalore
Highlights: The Bull Temple, Bangalore Palace, Vishwesharaiya Museum
Vivanta Bengaluru, Residency Road
3 – 4
Badami
Highlights: Rock Cave Temple, Aihole and Pattadakal Temples
The Krishna Heritage
4 – 7
Hampi
Highlights: Two-Storied Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Vitthal Temple, Stone Chariot
Heritage Resort Hampi
7 – 9
Chikmagalur
Highlights: Coffee Plantations, Nature Walks, Landscape, Hills
The Gateway Hotel KM Road Chikmagalur
9 – 11
Mysore
Highlights: Maharajahas Palace, Chamundi Hills, Vrindavan gardens, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Royal Orchid Metropole
11 – 11
Bangalore
Highlights: The Bull Temple, Bangalore Palace, Vishwesharaiya Museum
Your Vacation. Your Way.

This itinerary can be customized for you. Get in touch with our experts for your personalized vacation plan.

Itinerary Details

Day 1 – 3

International Arrival

We will welcome you at the airport and take you to your hotel

2 Nights

Bangalore

Bengaluru, India’s answer to Silicon Valley, was ranked third in 2012 amongst the list of world’s top ten cities to visit by Lonely Planet! Formerly a ‘pensioners paradise’, the bustling city sits high above sea-level, and is blessed with pleasant weather all year round. A center for British resistance in the 18th century, Bangalore has remained a permanent home of the Indian Army, retaining the campgrounds scattered all over the city and a distinct Cantonment atmosphere. The multicultural and multilingual city boasts charming gardens, tree-lined avenues and cozy bungalows, apart from several of the largest software and IT parks in india.

Included activities

Highlights of Bangalore

Experience historic landmarks amidst the cosmopolitan chic. Venture to 16th century blackened Dodda Ganeshana Gudi (Bull Temple) dedicated to the sacred bull Nandi. Venture to the imposing Vidhana Soudha, a Neo-Dravidian building that houses the seat of state legislature. Tour Bangalore Palace, still owned and inhabited by the erstwhile royal family of Mysore. Visit Bangalore’s British colonial gardens – Lal Bagh, which includes a Victorian glasshouse replica of London’s original Crystal Palace, and Cubbon Park. Explore Tipu Sultan’s Fort and Palace, and the Government Museum, one of the oldest museums in India and home to many artifacts from the Neolithic period.

Hotel options

Vivanta Bengaluru, Residency Road – Opt 1
Room Standard Room
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Day 3 – 4

You will be transferred from your hotel to Bangalore airport in a private vehicle

Board your flight from Bangalore to Hubli (Flight duration: 1.5 hrs)

Your chauffeur will drive you from Hubli to Badami in a private vehicle (Duration: 3.5 hrs)

1 Night

Badami

Badami: Cradle of architecture Picturesquely situated at the mouth of a ravine between two rocky hills, the exquisite structures and Badami’s rust red sandstone cliffs tell many a tale of yore’85famous for its four ancient rock-cut caves replete with carved pillars and bracket figures, hewn from red sandstone on a hill.

Included activities

Highlights of Badami

Discover ancient architecture in tranquil Badami. A loacl guide will take you around impressive architecture so you can learn more about ancient art and culture at this erstwhile regal capital. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the four famous temples of Badami are considered stellar examples of Indian rock-cut architecture. The famous Bhutanatha group of sandstone shrines are worth a visit. Witness a rugged landscape stretched out before the manmade Agastya Lake at the base of the temple complex. The grand Badami Fort is perched atop a hill, just a short climb from the lake, where you will discover intricate cave temples and religious figures carved into the red sandstone. (Half Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Museum closed on Fridays)

Half Day Tour of Aihole and Pattadakal

Discover an ancient temple complex in the heart of Karnataka! A drive away from Badami lies the historic Aihole village. Home to a majestic temple complex, the serene village is popular with architecture enthusiasts. Explore Aihole’s 125 stone temples constructed by the legendary Chalukyan dynasty in the 5th century. Travel onward to Pattadakal, set on the left bank of the serene Malaprabha River. From intricately carved temples, numerous shrines and a grand complex await you at this UNESCO World Heritage site. (Half Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Travel time to activity: one hour drive; If you have a preference for timing, please tell your travel consultant at the time of booking, otherwise our team will schedule the tour at the best available time)

Hotel options

The Krishna Heritage – Opt 1
Room Executive Room
Meals Breakfast
Style Boutique
Day 4 – 7

Your chauffeur will drive you from Badami to Hampi in a private vehicle (Duration: 5 hrs)

3 Nights

Hampi

Hampi is so mystical with its boulder-strewn landscapes that you might feel like you’ve landed on the moon! This ancient village is split into two by Tungabhadra River, which has become a natural epicenter. Hampi has a soothing quality to it, as its gentle agricultural community tend to lush green paddy fields and global travelers gather. As the former capital of the mighty Vijayanara Kingdom and home to ruins of a once sacred and regal city, the village is home to several major UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Included activities

Highlights of Hampi

Prepared to be bowled over by the mesmeric boulders of Hampi! Navigate through giant rock formations to witness stellar examples of Dravidian architecture. Constructed by the last great Hindu dynasty, some of these architectural marvels date back to the 14th century and are scattered amid the craggy hills and plains. From the historic King’s Balance to the stunning Queen’s Bath, the grand Lotus Mahal (palace) to the colossal Elephant Stables, there is much to discover. Envision the former glory of the musical pillars of Vitthal Temple, standing tall in the heart of an erstwhile bazaar and see the awe-inspiring Stone Chariot. Virupaksha Temple, the principal place of worship, is close at hand. Venture past lush paddy fields and lethargic water buffaloes to see the curious monolith of Ugra Narasimha with its bulging eyes and ample mane. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy)

Hotel options

Heritage Resort Hampi – Opt 1
Room Deluxe Villa
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Style Boutique
Day 7 – 9

Your chauffeur will drive you from Hampi to Chikmagalur in a private vehicle (Duration: 9 hrs)

2 Nights

Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur is a captivating natural canvas nestled in the Baba Budan Hills within the Western Ghats, best known as the life-giving spine of India. This calm and serene town is spread across lush green hills and valleys and is brimming with scenic surprises, from the occasional stream to the snow white blossoms of its sprawling coffee and spice plantations. Chikmagalur is one of the largest coffee producers in India. Enjoy a welcome respite from the stuffy Indian heat in this cool yet deliciously tropical climate.

Included activities

Excursion to Belur and Halebid

Visit Belur and Halebid, famous for their beautifully carved, ancient temples dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries.

Day Trip to Shravanabelagola

An interesting excursion takes you to Shravanabelagola, a Temple City and important Jain pilgrim center lying between Indragiri and Chandragiri hills. ‘Bel’, meaning white and ‘kola’, pond, are an allusion to the beautiful pond in the towns midst. Marvel at Indragiri’s 1000 year old statue of Bhagavan Gomateshwara Bahubali. Standing at 57ft, it is considered the world’s largest monolithic stone statue. Shravanabelagola has over 500 inscriptions and sculptures that highlight history back to the Indus Valley Civilization.

Hotel options

The Gateway Hotel KM Road Chikmagalur – Opt 1
Room Standard Garden View
Meals Breakfast
Style Lodge
Day 9 – 11

Your chauffeur will drive you from Chikmagalur to Mysore in a private vehicle. Enroute you will visit Shravanabelagola (Duration without stops: 4.5 hrs)

2 Nights

Mysore

Mysore provides you with an opportunity to step back in time into a world of regal opulence, and is often described as the City of Palaces. All roads in Mysore lead to the beautiful Mysore Palace built for the Maharajahs of Mysore, the Wodeyar Dynasty, who contributed to much of the city’s cultural development. Before them, Mysore was the stomping ground for rulers Hyder Ali and his son Tippu Sultan. Steeped in Hindu legend, the city’s name comes from a Sanksrit word for a mythical part-human, part-buffalo demon. The city comes alive during September/October when the state Hindu festival of Darasa takes place.

Included activities

Highlights of Mysore

Return to the regal era at Mysore! Visit the Maharajah’s Palace which artistically blends Indo-Saracenic style with foreign elements such as Scottish steel and Victorian-Edwardian era furniture. Every Sunday, visitors gather to to see the palace brightly lit up. Drive up to the Chamundi Hills to be blessed alongside hundreds of jubilant pilgrims at the Chamundeshwari Temple. On your way back, visit Sri Nandi Temple to be blessed by Hindu God Lord Shiva’s faithful gatekeeper Nandi, the decorated bull. (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Mysore Palace is only light up at night on Sundays; Please bring socks as footwear is not permitted inside temples)

Hotel options

Royal Orchid Metropole – Opt 1
Room Royal Room
Meals Breakfast
Style International
Day 11 – 11

Your chauffeur will drive you from Mysore to Bangalore airport in a private vehicle (Duration: 3.5 hrs)

Bangalore

Bengaluru, India’s answer to Silicon Valley, was ranked third in 2012 amongst the list of world’s top ten cities to visit by Lonely Planet! Formerly a ‘pensioners paradise’, the bustling city sits high above sea-level, and is blessed with pleasant weather all year round. A center for British resistance in the 18th century, Bangalore has remained a permanent home of the Indian Army, retaining the campgrounds scattered all over the city and a distinct Cantonment atmosphere. The multicultural and multilingual city boasts charming gardens, tree-lined avenues and cozy bungalows, apart from several of the largest software and IT parks in india.

International Departure

Discover the many treasures of Karnataka on this cultural and historical odyssey through one of India’s most fascinating southern states. Your starting point is Bangalore, India’s Silicon Valley, which sits at the intersection of the old and the new. Visit its British-era gardens, museums, and other important landmarks. Dive deep into the rich architectural heritage of the state at Badami. Marvel at the superb skill and artistry on display at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal. A surreal boulder-strewn landscape welcomes you in Hampi. Visit its grand palaces and temples – they are replete with intriguing stories about the many dynasties that ruled the region. Journey on to Belur and Halebid, neighboring towns that are known for their splendid temple architecture, and later visit Shravanabelagola, home to the 57-foot Gomateshwara statue. You can’t help but feel a peaceful spiritual vibe here. Royalty rules in Mysore; its grand palaces and impressive fortresses will transport you back in time. Explore India, in-depth, on an enchanting journey through this diverse country. Call or contact our travel experts for a tailor-made itinerary curated based on your preferences.

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $3,390 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes
  • Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
  • Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
  • Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
  • Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone
Not Included
  • Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Visa and tourism fees
  • Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
  • International airfare

What Our Guests Say

This trip was my gift to my wife for her birthday. I had traveled to India numerous times for business and wanted her to see this interesting and beautiful land. This was our 7th trip with Enchanting and I knew they would put together a journey that would explore the most important sights in the time which we allowed. We spent 2 weeks in the North of India and 2 weeks in the South. I was hesitant to do some much traveling by car but India has really improved their highways and the car trips where enjoyable. Our drivers were excellent. They knew the lay of the land and how to navigate the hectic Indian traffic. I am a retired international airline pilot and I will tell you that the hotels we stayed in are some of the finest in the world.
Rating 5/5
India Tour
Everett Beasley

USA

This was our 14th trip with Enchanting. Each trip is always very well coordinated with never any worries about transportation, reservations or tickets etc…. The guides are always very knowledgable, helpful and kind. The drivers are always very prompt and courteous. The trip coordinators are in constant contact for any needs or concerns throughout the journey. I always answer the survey after our trips and know that Enchanting takes the answers very seriously. Thanks to the staff at Enchanting for many happy memories!
Rating 5/5
Boat house in the Alleppey backwaters, Kerala
Julie Goodwin

USA

I have been using Enchanting Travels from their very beginning and I will continue to use them in the future. Although I use them mainly for India, they did arrange a very nice trip to Vienna when I went there to attend a wedding. They are reliable, efficient, trustworthy and knowledgeable and just plain excellent.
Rating 5/5
India: History and Heritage of Karnataka
Marianne Oort-Lissy

Netherlands

A level of service that was second to none. We have no hesitation in recommending Enchanting Travels!
Rating 5/5
Visit Meenakshi Temple of Madurai on your South India tours
Jeremy Lewis

UK

I would definitely use Enchanting travel again. By planning your holiday well before you go. It is worth spending time doing this, and listen to the advice you are given You can relax during your holiday.
Rating 5/5
India: History and Heritage of Karnataka
Erica McDonagh

Australia

Kamesh, who was the airport greeter, did an excellent job getting both us and our son from the airport to and into the hotel and situated for the trip. ALSO I don’t know if Prathima or Shivangi were responsible, but one or both of them arranged for us to get tickets to a dance performance Dec 16 at the Yagnaraman centre for performing arts at Sri Krishna Gana Sabha Trust — I was delighted. We wanted to see dance and had been unable to find information on this. Very grateful that we were able to attend. Let me also emphasize how excellent both Prathima and Shivangi were. Prathima with amazing patience and knowledge planned the trip. She was totally responsive — but also resolutely and gently made sure her experience guided our plan. And Shivangi was always there, fixing what needed to be fixed on occasion and always providing a friendly and encouraging voice. I felt we learned a lot about history, about Tamil culture and about Hinduism (that last especially on this and the next part of the trip and from our guides). Auroville is something else again and fascinating in its own different way.
Rating 5/5
India: History and Heritage of Karnataka
Carole Uhlander

USA

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