Incredible Tour of South India

Day 1: Arrival in Bangalore

Upon arrival at Bangalore Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After the journey, take time to relax and settle in comfortably. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to enjoy the calm start of your holiday or take a short walk around the nearby surroundings if time permits. Bangalore offers a pleasant introduction to South India with its cooler climate, tree-lined avenues, and relaxed atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 2: Bangalore City Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your sightseeing tour of Bangalore, a city known for its gardens, heritage, and spiritual landmarks. Start with Lalbagh Botanical Garden, where landscaped pathways, rare plants, and a historic glasshouse create a refreshing environment. Continue to Cubbon Park, a large green space in the heart of the city, ideal for a peaceful walk. Visit Bangalore Palace, a grand royal residence inspired by European architectural style, and admire its elegant interiors and regal setting. Later, visit the Bull Temple, home to a massive monolithic statue of Nandi, the sacred bull, and conclude the day at the ISKCON Temple, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful devotional architecture. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Bangalore.

Day 3: Bangalore to Vellore (Approx. 220 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Vellore, covering approximately 220 km in about 4 to 5 hours. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and begin sightseeing with the famous Golden Temple, a striking spiritual landmark admired for its gold-covered structure and peaceful surroundings. Continue to Vellore Fort, a large 16th-century fortress surrounded by a moat and known for its strong stone walls and historical importance. Inside the fort complex, visit Jalakandeswarar Temple, where exquisite carvings and traditional architecture reflect the region’s temple heritage. Spend the evening at leisure and enjoy a relaxed dinner at the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Vellore.

Day 4: Vellore to Chennai via Kanchipuram (Approx. 145 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, depart for Chennai and travel through Kanchipuram, one of South India’s most important temple towns. Visit Ekambareswarar Temple, known for its towering gateway tower and religious significance, followed by Kailasanathar Temple, an ancient stone temple admired for its architectural purity. Continue to Varadharaja Perumal Temple, another important shrine known for its sacred atmosphere and artistic detail. Later, drive to Chennai and begin a city tour. Visit Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India, followed by Kapaleeshwarar Temple, one of the city’s most visited Hindu temples with a vibrant and lively setting. End the day with a visit to the Government Museum, which showcases South India’s art, sculpture, and archaeology. Overnight at hotel in Chennai.

Day 5: Chennai to Pondicherry via Mahabalipuram (Approx. 160 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Pondicherry, stopping en route at Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient coastal monuments. Visit the Shore Temple, an impressive stone structure facing the Bay of Bengal, and Arjuna’s Penance, a vast open-air rock carving filled with mythological scenes and artistic detail. Continue your drive to Pondicherry and check in at your hotel. Later, explore the French Quarter, known for its colonial buildings, calm streets, and charming cafés. Visit Auroville and its peaceful surroundings, and proceed to Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual center that attracts visitors from around the world. End the day with a relaxing walk along Promenade Beach and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Overnight at hotel in Pondicherry.

Day 6: Pondicherry to Thanjavur via Chidambaram, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, and Darasuram (Approx. 180 km / 5–6 hrs drive)

After breakfast, leave Pondicherry and drive to Thanjavur with important heritage visits along the way. Stop first at Chidambaram to visit Nataraja Temple, one of the most revered Shiva temples in South India. Continue to Gangaikonda Cholapuram, a UNESCO-listed temple town that reflects the height of Chola power and artistic achievement. Then visit Darasuram to see the Airavatesvara Temple, a masterpiece known for its detailed stone work and refined architecture. After the sightseeing stops, continue to Thanjavur and check into your hotel. The evening is free to relax after a full day of cultural exploration. Overnight at hotel in Thanjavur.

Day 7: Thanjavur to Chettinad via Trichy (Approx. 140 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, begin the day with Thanjavur sightseeing. Visit Brihadeeswara Temple, one of India’s greatest temple structures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admired for its scale and architectural brilliance. Continue to the Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery, where royal history, sculptures, and paintings reveal the legacy of the region. Visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library, home to rare manuscripts and valuable literary collections. Later, drive to Chettinad, stopping in Trichy to visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, and Rock Fort Temple, known for its hilltop setting and panoramic city views. Continue to Chettinad and check in at your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Chettinad.

Day 8: Chettinad to Madurai (Approx. 90 km / 2 hrs drive)

After breakfast, explore Chettinad’s grand heritage mansions, which display beautiful woodwork, spacious courtyards, and a unique blend of local and colonial influences. Learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Chettiar community before driving to Madurai, covering approximately 90 km in about 2 hours. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and begin sightseeing with Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of India’s most famous temple complexes, known for its colorful towers, detailed sculptures, and sacred atmosphere. Continue to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an elegant Indo-Saracenic structure with grand pillars and historical significance. If time permits, visit Gandhi Memorial Museum, which presents an important chapter of India’s freedom movement. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Madurai.

Day 9: Madurai to Hyderabad by Flight

After breakfast, transfer to Madurai Airport for your flight to Hyderabad. On arrival, you will be assisted with your transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for leisure, giving you time to rest after the journey and prepare for the next phase of sightseeing. Hyderabad offers a fascinating contrast of royal heritage, old-city charm, and modern city life. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 10: Hyderabad City Tour

After breakfast, begin a full-day tour of Hyderabad, a city known for its Deccan heritage and royal legacy. Visit Golconda Fort, a powerful fortress with impressive gates, acoustic design, and sweeping views. Continue to the Qutb Shahi Tombs, a tranquil complex of royal mausoleums surrounded by gardens. Explore Charminar, the city’s iconic monument, and then visit Chowmahalla Palace, a beautifully preserved royal residence with elegant halls and courtyards. Later, explore the Salar Jung Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of art, sculpture, and manuscripts. Visit the Paigah Tombs if time permits, admired for their fine marble work and distinctive design. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 11: Hyderabad to Gulbarga via Bidar (Approx. 260 km / 5–6 hrs drive)

After breakfast, leave Hyderabad and drive to Gulbarga, with a stop at Bidar en route. In Bidar, visit Bidar Fort, a grand fortress that reflects Persian-influenced architecture and historic military importance. Continue to the Bahmani Tombs, where elegant domes and symmetrical layouts reflect the Deccan Sultanate period. Visit Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, a respected Sikh pilgrimage site known for its peaceful atmosphere. Continue your drive to Gulbarga and check in at the hotel. Later, visit Gulbarga Fort, a major historic landmark with strong defensive walls and commanding views. Overnight at hotel in Gulbarga.

Day 12: Gulbarga to Bijapur (Approx. 170 km / 4 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Bijapur, covering approximately 170 km in about 4 hours. Begin sightseeing with Gol Gumbaz, one of India’s most famous monuments, known for its massive dome and whispering gallery. Continue to Ibrahim Rauza, a graceful mausoleum complex with elegant symmetry and refined detailing. Visit Malik-e-Maidan, one of the largest cannons in the world, and Bara Kaman, an unfinished but striking architectural site. Later, visit Jama Masjid and enjoy a walk through the local markets before checking in at the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Bijapur.

Day 13: Bijapur to Badami (Approx. 120 km / 3 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Badami, a historic town known for its sandstone caves and ancient rock-cut temples. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and begin sightseeing with the Badami Cave Temples, which feature sculptures and carvings dedicated to Hindu and Jain traditions. Visit the Bhutanatha Temple group, set beside a peaceful lake, and then explore Badami Fort for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The town’s calm atmosphere and ancient heritage make it a memorable stop on the itinerary. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 14: Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole and Return to Badami

After breakfast, set out for a full-day exploration of the heritage triangle of Badami, Pattadakal, and Aihole. Visit Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Chalukyan temples and architectural balance. Explore Virupaksha Temple and other monuments that reveal the blending of northern and southern temple styles. Continue to Aihole, often called the cradle of South Indian temple architecture, and visit the Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple, and other ancient structures. Later, explore the Mahakuta temples before returning to Badami. This day offers one of the richest architectural experiences of the tour. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 15: Badami to Hampi (Approx. 180 km / 4–5 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Hampi, covering approximately 180 km in about 4 to 5 hours. On arrival, check in at your hotel and begin exploring the surroundings. Visit Anagundi Village, known for its heritage setting and traditional lifestyle, and enjoy a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River if available. Later, explore Hampi Bazaar, where local crafts, souvenirs, and the historic setting create a unique atmosphere. The day gives you a calm introduction to the extraordinary ruins of Hampi. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 16: Hampi Exploration

After breakfast, spend the day discovering the magnificent ruins of Hampi, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Visit Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India, followed by the iconic stone chariot at Vijaya Vittala Temple. Continue to the Royal Enclosure, Queen’s Bath, Lotus Mahal, and Hazara Rama Temple, all of which reflect the power and artistic vision of the Vijayanagara rulers. The blend of history, architecture, and open landscapes makes Hampi one of the most remarkable destinations in South India. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 17: Hampi to Hassan via Belur and Halebidu (Approx. 330 km / 7–8 hrs drive)

After breakfast, depart for Hassan, covering approximately 330 km in about 7 to 8 hours with heritage stops at Belur and Halebidu. Visit Chennakesava Temple in Belur, renowned for its detailed Hoysala craftsmanship, then continue to Halebidu to explore Hoysaleswara Temple, famous for its intricate carvings and sculpture work. These temples represent the best of Hoysala architecture and provide a fitting contrast to the grand scale of Hampi. Arrive in Hassan and check into your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Hassan.

Day 18: Hassan to Mysore (Approx. 140 km / 3–4 hrs drive)

After breakfast, drive to Mysore, covering approximately 140 km in about 3 to 4 hours. Begin sightseeing with Mysore Palace, a splendid Indo-Saracenic landmark that stands as one of India’s finest royal residences. Continue to Jaganmohan Palace, now an art gallery displaying important works of South Indian art. Visit Devaraja Market for flowers, spices, and local produce, and then stop at St. Philomena’s Church, a beautiful neo-Gothic church with tall spires and stained-glass windows. Mysore combines royal heritage with a relaxed atmosphere, making it a memorable destination. Overnight at hotel in Mysore.

Day 19: Mysore to Bangalore (Approx. 140 km / 3–4 hrs drive)

After breakfast, depart from Mysore and drive back to Bangalore, covering approximately 140 km in about 3 to 4 hours. En route, stop at the Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangapatna, a historically important temple set in a former royal stronghold. Upon reaching Bangalore, visit the ISKCON Temple for a peaceful spiritual conclusion to your South India journey. Later, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Your tour ends with unforgettable memories of temples, palaces, forts, cave monuments, heritage towns, and the rich cultural diversity of South India.

• Assistance on arrival at airport and hotel check-in support
• 18 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private AC vehicle for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program
• English-speaking local guides on sightseeing days as per the itinerary
• Monument entrance fees and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in the vehicle throughout the tour
• All applicable government taxes, toll taxes, parking charges, and driver allowance
• Fuel charges and interstate permits where required
• Basic first aid kit available with the driver

Hotels used or similar for 18 nights accommodation

Bangalore x 2 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection

Vellore x 1 night
3* - Hotel Khanna Fiesta/ POPPYS Anukula Residency
4* & 5* - Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotels/ Fortune Park

Chennai x 1 night
3* - Raj Park/ MGM East Woods
4* - The  Raintree/ Accord Metropolitan
5* - ITC Grand Chola/ The Leela Palace

Pondicherry x 1 night
3* - Shenbaga Hotel/ Annamalai International
4* - Le Pondy/ The Windflower Resort & Spa
5* - Palais De Mahe/ La Villa

Thanjore x 1 night
3star - Grand Gardenia/ Oriental Towers 
4star - Sangam Hotels/ Ideal River View Resort
5star - Svatma

Chettinad x 1 night 
3* & 4*- Chidambara Vilas/ Chettinadu Mansion
5* - Visalam Cgh Earth

Madurai x 1 night
3* - Astoria by Sparsa/ Madurai’s Residency
4* - GRT Regency/ Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
5* - Heritage Madurai/ The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai

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*/4*/5* -  - The Fern Residency/ Sun Hotel

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

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

Hassan x 1 night
3* - Candy Southern Star/ Pavanputra Resort & Spa
4* & 5* - Hosyala Village Resort/ The Ashok

Mysore x 1 night
3* - Southern Star/Sandesh The Prince
4* - Fortune Park JP Palace/ Grand Mercure
5* - Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden/The Windflower Resort & Spa
Note: There are no 4* or 5* hotels in Vellore, Gulbarga, Bijapur & Badami.

• Madurai to Hyderabad flight fare
• Camera or video charges at monuments, if any
• Meals other than those mentioned in the inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages, telephone, internet, and minibar
• Travel insurance or medical expenses
• Optional activities, additional sightseeing, or upgrades not mentioned in the itinerary
• Early check-in or late check-out at hotels unless specified
• Any increase in taxes, fuel charges, or airfare
• Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions