Must See Monuments, Temples & Beach Tour of India
This extensive journey takes you through Mumbai, Aurangabad, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Hampi and Goa, covering India’s most celebrated heritage circuits, including UNESCO treasures like Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Hampi and Pattadakkal, along with spiritual landmarks, architectural brilliance, and natural beauty such as Chilika Lake and Goa’s beaches, while also offering a deep cultural immersion through diverse regions, cuisines, and traditions, all combined with guided sightseeing, scenic drives, and leisure time for a well-balanced and enriching travel experience, perfectly suited for those looking to explore India’s heritage in a comprehensive and comfortable way.
Day 1: Arrive Mumbai
Upon arrival at Mumbai airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and assisted with a private transfer to your hotel. After check-in, take time to relax and recover from your journey. Mumbai, known as the financial capital of India, offers a fascinating mix of colonial charm and modern skyline. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short walk around the nearby area or enjoy the hotel facilities. No scheduled activities are planned today to ensure comfort and acclimatization. Overnight at hotel in Mumbai.
Day 2: Mumbai Sightseeing
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before starting a full-day city tour of Mumbai. Visit the iconic Gateway of India overlooking the Arabian Sea, followed by a ferry ride to the famous Elephanta Caves, known for their ancient rock-cut sculptures. Later, drive past Marine Drive, also called the Queen’s Necklace, and visit Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry. Continue to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a UNESCO site, and explore Crawford Market and Colaba Causeway. Experience the vibrant culture and colonial heritage of the city. Overnight at hotel in Mumbai.
Day 3: Mumbai – Aurangabad (Flight)
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Aurangabad (approx. 1-hour flight). Upon arrival, you will be assisted with transfer to your hotel for check-in. Begin your exploration with a visit to Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the Mini Taj Mahal. Continue to explore Aurangabad Caves and Panchakki, showcasing Mughal-era engineering. The city reflects a blend of history and culture. Evening at leisure to relax. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 4: Excursion to Ajanta Caves (200 km / 5–6 hrs round trip)
Start the day with breakfast before driving to Ajanta Caves for a full-day excursion. These UNESCO-listed caves date back to the 2nd century BCE and feature remarkable Buddhist murals and sculptures. Explore the intricately carved caves depicting stories from the life of Buddha and ancient Indian traditions. The scenic location amidst hills enhances the overall experience. After sightseeing, drive back to Aurangabad in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Aurangabad.
Day 5: Aurangabad – Hyderabad (Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hyderabad. Upon arrival, you will be assisted with transfer to your hotel and check-in. Later, begin an orientation tour of the city by visiting Charminar and Mecca Masjid, both iconic landmarks of Hyderabad. Walk through the bustling local bazaars known for pearls and traditional items. Enjoy the cultural vibe of the city. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.
Day 6: Hyderabad Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin a full-day city tour of Hyderabad. Visit Golconda Fort, famous for its acoustic system and historical significance. Continue to Qutub Shahi Tombs, showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture. Visit Chowmahalla Palace, once the seat of the Nizams. Explore Salar Jung Museum, housing one of the largest private art collections in India. End the day with a visit to Hussain Sagar Lake and Birla Mandir. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.
Day 7: Hyderabad – Warangal Excursion (300 km / 6–7 hrs round trip)
After breakfast, drive to Warangal, an important historical destination. Visit the Warangal Fort, known for its massive stone gateways and ruins. Continue to the Thousand Pillar Temple, a fine example of Kakatiya architecture. Visit the UNESCO-listed Ramappa Temple, famous for its intricate carvings and floating brick technology. After sightseeing, drive back to Hyderabad in the evening. Overnight at hotel.
Day 8: Hyderabad – Bhubaneswar (Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bhubaneswar. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check-in. Begin sightseeing with visits to Lingaraj Temple (outside view), Mukteshwar Temple, and Rajarani Temple. Later, visit Dhauli Stupa, an important Buddhist peace pagoda linked to Emperor Ashoka. The city is known for its temple architecture and spiritual heritage. Overnight at hotel in Bhubaneswar.
Day 9: Bhubaneswar – Puri (60 km / 1.5 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Puri. En route, visit the UNESCO-listed Konark Sun Temple, famous for its chariot-shaped structure and intricate carvings. Continue to Pipili village, known for appliqué handicrafts, and Raghurajpur, a heritage crafts village. Upon arrival in Puri, check into your hotel. Visit Jagannath Temple (non-Hindus can view from outside) and enjoy time at Puri beach. Overnight at hotel in Puri.
Day 10: Excursion to Chilika Lake (55 km one way / 2 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Enjoy a scenic boat ride and spot migratory birds and dolphins (seasonal). The lake offers a serene natural experience and insight into local fishing communities. Spend time enjoying the peaceful surroundings before returning to Puri in the evening. Overnight at hotel in Puri.
Day 11: Bhubaneswar – Bangalore (Flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bangalore. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check-in. Begin a city tour visiting Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park, known for lush greenery. Drive past Vidhana Soudha and explore local surroundings. Bangalore blends modern lifestyle with historical charm. Overnight at hotel.
Day 12: Bangalore – Mysore (150 km / 3 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Mysore. En route, visit Srirangapatna, known for its historical temples and Tipu Sultan’s legacy. Upon arrival, check in at hotel. Visit Mysore Palace, a magnificent royal residence, and Chamundi Hills for panoramic views. Explore local markets famous for sandalwood and silk. Overnight at hotel in Mysore.
Day 13: Mysore – Shravanabelagola – Hassan (140 km / 3–4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Shravanabelagola to visit the massive Gomateshwara statue. Continue your drive to Hassan. Upon arrival, check in at hotel. The town is known for its proximity to Hoysala temples. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Hassan.
Day 14: Hassan – Hampi (330 km / 6–7 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Hampi. En route, visit Belur and Halebidu temples, known for intricate carvings and Hoysala architecture. Continue your journey through scenic countryside. Upon arrival in Hampi, check into your hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.
Day 15: Hampi Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin a full-day exploration of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple with the famous Stone Chariot, and Hampi Bazaar. Explore Royal Enclosure, Lotus Mahal, and Elephant Stables. Discover the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire through its ruins. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.
Day 16: Hampi – Badami via Lakkundi & Gadag (150 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Badami. En route, visit Lakkundi and Gadag, known for ancient temples and stepwells. Continue the scenic drive through Karnataka countryside. Upon arrival in Badami, check into your hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.
Day 17: Badami – Aihole – Pattadakkal – Badami
After breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion. Visit Badami cave temples, carved into sandstone cliffs. Continue to Aihole, known as the cradle of Indian temple architecture. Visit Pattadakkal, a UNESCO site featuring Chalukyan temples. Return to Badami in the evening. Overnight at hotel.
Day 18: Badami – Goa (250 km / 5–6 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Goa. Enjoy a scenic journey through Western Ghats. Upon arrival, check into your beach resort. Relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Goa.
Day 19: Goa Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin a full-day tour of Goa. Visit Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Fort Aguada. Explore Panjim markets and enjoy views of the Arabian Sea. Learn about Portuguese influence in Goa’s culture and architecture. Overnight at hotel.
Day 20: Goa Leisure Day
After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure. Relax on beaches like Baga or Calangute, or opt for water sports and optional activities. You may also explore local markets or enjoy a river cruise. Overnight at hotel in Goa.
Day 21: Goa Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of India’s monuments, temples, and beaches.
- Meet & greet assistance on arrival and departure
- 20 Nights accommodation in selected category hotels
- Daily buffet breakfast at hotels
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for entire tour
- All airport transfers and intercity travel
- English-speaking local guides in each city
- Monument entrance fees as per itinerary
- All applicable parking, tolls, and driver allowances
- Bottled mineral water (2 bottles per person per day)
- Domestic flight assistance (ticketing support if required)
- Boat ride at Chilika Lake
- Ferry ride to Elephanta Caves
- All currently applicable government taxes (GST)
Hotels used or similar for 20 nights accommodation
Mumbai x 2 night
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* - Keys Hotel The Aures/ Aurangabad Gymkhana Club
4* - Ambassador Ajanta / VITS Hotel
5* - WelcomHotel Rama International / Lemon Tree Hotel
Hyderabad x 3 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel
Bhubaneswar x 1 nights
3* - Kalinga Ashok/ The HHI
4* - Fortune Park Sishmo/ Mayfair Convention
5* - Mayfair Lagoon/ Trident Hotel
Puri x 2 nights
3* - Toshali Sands/ Blue Lily Beach Resort
4* - The Hans Coco Palms/ The Chariot Resort & spa
5* - Mayfair Waves
Bangalore x 1 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
Mysore x 1 nights
3* - Southern Star/Sandesh The Prince
4* - Fortune Park JP Palace/ Grand Mercure
5* - Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden/The Windflower Resort & Spa
Hassan x 1 night
3* - Candy Southern Star/ Pavanputra Resort & Spa
4* & 5* - Hosyala Village Resort/ The Ashok
Hampi x 2 nights
3* - Malligi Hotel/ Krishna Palace
4* - Heritage Resort / Royal Orchid Central Keerti
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders
Badami x 2 night
3* - Rajsangam Hotel/ The Heritage Resort
4* & 5* - Badami Court/ Krishna Heritage
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
- Domestic flight fares (Mumbai–Aurangabad–Hyderabad–Bhubaneswar–Bangalore)
- International flights
- Visa charges and travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners (unless specified)
- Camera/video charges at monuments
- Personal expenses (laundry, minibar, tips, porterage, etc.)
- Early check-in and late check-out charges
- Any optional sightseeing or activities not mentioned
- Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions