Diamonds & Dynasties of Southern India

Day 1: Arrive Hyderabad

Upon arrival in Hyderabad, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After settling in, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Later, you may explore nearby local markets or enjoy authentic Hyderabadi cuisine at your leisure. The city’s vibrant blend of tradition and modernity offers a perfect introduction to your journey. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2: Hyderabad Sightseeing

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Hyderabad. Visit the historic Golconda Fort, known for its fascinating acoustic system and impressive architecture. Continue to Charminar, the city’s iconic monument, followed by a walk through Laad Bazaar, famous for bangles and handicrafts. Visit Chowmahalla Palace and Salar Jung Museum, showcasing royal artifacts and global collections. Later, drive past Hussain Sagar Lake and enjoy scenic views. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 3: Hyderabad – Bidar – Gulbarga (260 km / approx. 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Gulbarga via Bidar, enjoying views of rural landscapes and countryside life. En route, visit Bidar Fort, an impressive historical structure with intricate architecture. Continue to Bahmani Tombs and Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, a significant spiritual site. Upon arrival in Gulbarga, check in to your hotel and relax. Later, visit Khwaja Bande Nawaz Dargah and Gulbarga Fort, reflecting the region’s rich history. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 4: Gulbarga – Bijapur (152 km / approx. 3 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Bijapur, a city known for its grand monuments of the Adil Shahi dynasty. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and begin sightseeing. Visit Gol Gumbaz, famous for its whispering gallery and massive dome. Continue to Ibrahim Rauza, an architectural masterpiece with beautiful gardens. Explore Jumma Masjid and admire its grandeur and intricate details. Later, visit Malik-e-Maidan, one of the largest cannons in the world. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 5: Bijapur – Badami (120 km / approx. 2.5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Badami, passing through scenic countryside and small villages. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. Begin your exploration with the famous Badami Cave Temples, carved into sandstone cliffs and showcasing ancient Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist art. Visit Agastya Lake and enjoy the serene surroundings. Continue to Banashankari Temple and explore the historic town’s charm. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 6: Excursion to Aihole & Pattadakal

After breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion to Aihole and Pattadakal. Aihole is known as the cradle of Indian temple architecture, featuring numerous experimental temple designs. Continue to Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing a blend of North and South Indian architectural styles. Explore beautifully carved temples and learn about their historical significance. Return to Badami in the evening and relax. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 7: Badami – Hampi (130 km / approx. 3 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and refresh. Begin sightseeing with Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India. Continue to the famous Vithala Temple, known for its musical pillars and stone chariot. Explore Hampi Bazaar and enjoy panoramic views from Hemakuta Hill at sunset. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 8: Hampi Sightseeing

After breakfast, continue exploring the fascinating ruins of Hampi. Visit the Royal Enclosure, Lotus Mahal, and Elephant Stables, showcasing royal lifestyle and architectural brilliance. Explore Hazara Rama Temple with its intricate carvings depicting the Ramayana. Visit Queen’s Bath and step back into the grandeur of the Vijayanagara era. Spend time soaking in the surreal landscape of boulders and ruins. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 9: Hampi – Goa (300 km / approx. 6 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Goa, enjoying a scenic journey through changing landscapes. Upon arrival, check in to your beach resort and relax. Spend the evening at leisure, walking along the beach or enjoying the sunset. Goa’s laid-back vibe offers a refreshing contrast to the historical journey so far. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 10: Goa Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Goa. Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, both UNESCO-listed churches reflecting Portuguese heritage. Continue to Fort Aguada for panoramic sea views. Explore the charming Fontainhas Latin Quarter with colorful houses and narrow streets. Later, visit a spice plantation to learn about local spices and enjoy a traditional Goan experience. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 11: Goa Leisure Day

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure. Relax on the beach, indulge in water sports like parasailing or jet skiing, or simply unwind at your resort. You may also explore local markets or opt for a sunset cruise. This day is designed for relaxation and personal exploration. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 12: Goa – Mumbai (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. Begin a short orientation tour including Gateway of India and Marine Drive. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city in the evening. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 13: Mumbai Sightseeing

After breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour of Mumbai. Take a ferry ride to Elephanta Caves and explore ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Return to the city and visit Prince of Wales Museum and Hanging Gardens. Explore Crawford Market and experience the vibrant local culture. End your day with a scenic drive along Marine Drive. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 14: Departure Mumbai

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of Southern India’s rich heritage, architecture, and cultural diversity.

• Assistance on arrival and departure
• 13 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at all hotels
• Private air-conditioned vehicle for entire tour
• English-speaking local guides in each city
• All sightseeing and excursions as per itinerary
• Monument entrance fees included
• Bottled drinking water during travel
• All tolls, parking, and driver allowances
• All applicable government taxes

Hotels used or similar

Hyderabad x 2 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel

Gulbarga x 1 night
3* - Atharva Hotel/ Hotel Heritage Inn
3* / 5* - Citrus Hotel 

Bijapur x 1 night
3* - Sun Hotel/ Hotel Mayura Adilshahi
4* - Sun Hotel/ Hotel Mayura Adilshahi
5* - Sun Hotel/ Hotel Mayura Adilshahi

Badami x 2 nights
3* - Rajsangam Hotel/ The Heritage Resort
4* / 5* - Badami Court/ Krishna Heritage

Hospet/Hampi x 2 nights
3* - Krishna Palace/ Kishkinda Heritage Resort
4* - Heritage Resort / Royal Orchid Central Keerti
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders

Goa x 3 nights 
3* - Varca Le Palm/ Lambana Resort
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel Candolim/ The Chances Resort & Casino
5* - Zuri Varca Goa White Sand Resort & Casino/ Alila Diwa Goa

Mumbai x 2 nights
3* - Hotel Suba Palace/ BW Hotel Sahil
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - Trident Hotel/ ITC Grand Central

• Domestic and international airfare
• Lunches and dinners
• Camera/video charges at monuments
• Personal expenses (laundry, tips, drinks, etc.)
• Travel insurance
• Optional tours and activities
• Early check-in and late check-out
• Any increase in taxes or fuel charges
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions