Gems of South India Tour: Caves, Palaces, Temples & Backwaters

Duration 18 Nights / 19 Days

Starting From On Request

Destination India

Tour Code AGORA362

This immersive 19-day journey showcases the finest cultural and natural treasures of South India. Start in Mumbai, exploring colonial landmarks and Elephanta Caves before flying to Aurangabad to witness the UNESCO-listed Ajanta and Ellora caves. Continue to Hyderabad for grand forts and Nizam heritage, followed by Karnataka’s historic cities including Bijapur, Badami, and Hampi. Explore ancient temple complexes, royal enclosures, and architectural marvels of the Deccan region. Fly to Kerala and experience Cochin, Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey, combining hill stations, wildlife, and backwater cruising. This tour offers a rich and diverse exploration of South India’s heritage and landscapes.

Day 1: Arrival in Mumbai

Upon arrival at Mumbai International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may step out to explore the nearby surroundings or take a leisurely walk along Marine Drive, enjoying views of the Arabian Sea. Mumbai, known as the “City of Dreams,” offers a vibrant mix of colonial charm and modern lifestyle. In the evening, you may explore local cafés or markets at your own pace. Overnight at hotel in Mumbai.

Day 2: Mumbai City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin the city tour of Mumbai with a visit to the iconic Gateway of India. Proceed with a ferry ride across the harbor to explore the Elephanta Caves, known for their impressive rock-cut sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. Return to the city and continue sightseeing including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Dhobi Ghat, and Marine Drive. Explore bustling local markets such as Colaba Causeway for a glimpse into Mumbai’s vibrant street life. The day offers a perfect blend of heritage, architecture, and city culture. Return to hotel. Overnight at hotel in Mumbai.

Day 3: Mumbai – Aurangabad (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Aurangabad. Upon arrival, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Later, begin a city tour visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the “Mini Taj,” followed by Panchakki and the Aurangabad Caves. These monuments reflect the region’s Mughal and Buddhist heritage. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure or explore local markets famous for handicrafts and textiles. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 4: Ajanta Caves Excursion (100 km one way / 2.5 hrs)

After an early breakfast, drive to the world-famous Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient rock-cut caves are renowned for their exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures dating back over 2,000 years. Spend time exploring the intricately carved caves depicting Jataka tales and spiritual teachings. The serene surroundings enhance the historical experience. Later, drive back to Aurangabad, enjoying scenic countryside views. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.

Day 5: Aurangabad – Hyderabad (Flight via Ellora)

After breakfast, visit the magnificent Ellora Caves, featuring Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain monuments carved into rock. Continue to Grishneshwar Temple and Daulatabad Fort, known for its strategic architecture. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hyderabad. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Evening at leisure to explore nearby markets or enjoy local cuisine. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 6: Hyderabad Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a full-day city tour starting with Golconda Fort, famous for its acoustic system and panoramic views. Continue to Qutub Shahi Tombs and later visit the iconic Charminar. Walk through Laad Bazaar, known for bangles and pearls. Visit Salar Jung Museum and Chowmahalla Palace showcasing royal artifacts. Drive past Hussain Sagar Lake and Birla Mandir. The day reflects Hyderabad’s rich Nizam heritage. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 7: Hyderabad – Gulbarga (230 km / 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Gulbarga through Deccan plateau landscapes. En route, visit Bidar Fort and Bahmani Tombs, reflecting Persian-influenced architecture. Continue your scenic drive across rural Karnataka. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and relax. Evening at leisure to explore the town or enjoy local cuisine. Overnight at hotel in Gulbarga.

Day 8: Gulbarga – Bijapur (170 km / 4 hrs)

After breakfast, visit Gulbarga Fort and Jama Masjid. Later, drive to Bijapur, known for its Islamic architecture. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel. In the afternoon, explore Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rauza, and Bara Kaman. These monuments highlight the grandeur of the Adil Shahi dynasty. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Bijapur.

Day 9: Bijapur – Badami (120 km / 3 hrs)

After breakfast, continue exploring Bijapur including Malik-e-Maidan and Mehtar Mahal. Later, drive to Badami through scenic countryside dotted with villages. On arrival, check-in at your hotel and relax. Evening free to explore local surroundings or enjoy sunset views. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 10: Badami – Aihole – Pattadakal – Badami

After breakfast, begin excursion to Aihole and Pattadakal, known as the cradle of Indian temple architecture. Explore beautifully carved temples reflecting Chalukyan style. Return to Badami and visit cave temples carved into red sandstone cliffs. Explore Agastya Lake and Badami Fort offering panoramic views. The day is rich in history and architecture. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 11: Badami – Hampi (180 km / 5 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Hampi via Gadag and Lakkundi, visiting ancient temples and step wells. Continue through scenic landscapes of Karnataka. Upon arrival in Hampi, check-in at your hotel. Relax and enjoy the unique setting of boulder-strewn landscapes. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 12: Hampi Sightseeing

After breakfast, explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Hampi. Visit Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple with stone chariot, Lotus Mahal, and Royal Enclosure. Discover ancient bazaars, temples, and monuments of Vijayanagara Empire. The surreal landscape adds to the experience. Enjoy sunset views over the ruins. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 13: Hampi – Cochin (via Hubli flight)

After breakfast, drive to Hubli airport (approx. 4–5 hrs) to board your flight to Cochin. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check-in. Relax after the journey and enjoy Kerala’s coastal ambiance. Evening free to explore Fort Kochi area. Overnight at hotel in Cochin.

Day 14: Cochin – Munnar (140 km / 4–5 hrs)

After breakfast, begin the city tour of Cochin visiting Fort Kochi, Chinese fishing nets, and Dutch Palace. Later, drive to Munnar through winding roads, waterfalls, and tea gardens. Enjoy scenic stops en route. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and relax. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 15: Munnar Sightseeing

After breakfast, explore Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Tea Museum. Enjoy panoramic views of rolling tea plantations. Visit local markets and experience hill station charm. The cool climate and scenic beauty make the day refreshing. Overnight at hotel in Munnar.

Day 16: Munnar – Thekkady (110 km / 3–4 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Thekkady via scenic routes. En route, stop at Ramakkalmedu viewpoint. Upon arrival, check-in at hotel. Visit spice plantations and local markets. In the evening, enjoy cultural performances. Overnight at hotel in Thekkady.

Day 17: Thekkady – Kumarakom (140 km / 4 hrs)

After breakfast, enjoy Periyar boat safari spotting wildlife. Visit spice plantations before driving to Kumarakom. Check-in at backwater resort and relax. Enjoy sunset views over Vembanad Lake. Overnight at hotel in Kumarakom.

Day 18: Kumarakom – Alleppey (Houseboat Stay)

After breakfast, transfer to Alleppey to board houseboat. Cruise through backwaters passing villages and coconut groves. Enjoy meals onboard while relaxing on deck. Experience local life along canals. Overnight stay on houseboat.

Day 19: Alleppey – Cochin (60 km / 1.5 hrs) – Departure

After breakfast, disembark and drive to Cochin airport. Enjoy final views of Kerala countryside. Depending on flight timing, optional short city visit possible. Tour concludes with unforgettable memories of South India.

Assistance on arrival and departure
18 nights accommodation including 1 night houseboat
Daily breakfast at hotels
All meals on houseboat (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
Private AC vehicle for entire tour
Domestic flights (Mumbai–Aurangabad–Hyderabad–Cochin as per itinerary)
English-speaking local guides
Monument entrance fees
Ferry ride to Elephanta Caves
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary boat safari
Cultural shows (Kathakali/Kalaripayattu where applicable)
Bottled drinking water
All government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 18 nights accommodations

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

Aurangabad x 2 nights
3* - 7 Apple Hotel Aurangabad / Ginger Aurangabad
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - WelcomHotel Rama International / Lemon Tree Hotel

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 nights
3*/4*/5* - Hotel Heritage Inn

Bijapur x 1 nights
3*/4*/5* - The Fern Residency/ Sun Hotel

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

Hospet/ Hampi x 2 nights
3* - Krishna Palace/ Kishkinda Heritage Resort
4* - Heritage Resort/ Malligi Hotel
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders

Cochin x 1 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Munnar x 2 nights
3* - Fort Munnar/ Abad Copper Castle
4* - Nature Zone Jungle Resort/ Fragrant Nature Munnar
5* - Chandys Windy Woods/ Tea County

Thekkady (Thekkady) x 1 nights
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Kumarakom x 1 nights
3* - Abad Whispering Palm/ Cocobay Resort
4* - Eastend Lake Song/ Goldfield Lake Resort
5* - Coconut Lagoon/ The Zuri

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat (ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats)
4* - Premium Houseboat (Abad Premium Houseboats/ Rainbow Premium Houseboats)
5* - Luxury Houseboat (Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons)