Empires of the Deccan

India, 11 Nights

This is an ideal tour for those that have been to India before.  It provides an in depth insight into Indian life, away from the normal tourist path.

Day 1 - Hyderabad
Arrive Hyderabad and check into the Taj Falaknuma Palace for two nights.

Day 2 - Hyderabad
Enjoy a tour of Hyderabad including Golcanda Fort and Qutab Shahi tombs.

Day 3 - Hyderabad/Gulbarga
This morning drive to Gulbarga via Bidar (290kms/6 hours) with its splendid fort ruins to explore. Overnight at Aditya International hotel.

Day 4 - Gulbarga/Bijapur
After a morning tour of Gulbarga, drive to Bijapur (160kms/4 hours). Tour Gol Gumbaz, the third largest dome in the world.  Overnight at Hotel Shashinag.

Day 5 - Bijapur/Badami
Explore the Aihole Temple complex en route to Badami (160kms/4 hours). This afternoon visit rock cave temples before arriving at Hotel Badami Court.

Day 6 - Badami/Hospet
En route to Hospet (140kms/3 hours) visit the splendid Patadakkal complex. Malliggi Tourist Home is your hotel for two nights.

Day 7 - Hospet
Explore Hampi today including a visit to the sacred and royal centres of Vijayanagara Kings and view both Virupaksh and Vittalla temples.

Day 8 - Hospet/Chikmagalur
Today travel to Chikmagalur (280km/6 hours) and check-in to the Gateway Hotel Chikmagalur for a two night stay.

Day 9 - Chikmagalur
A full day to explore Chikmagalur. The town is situated in the south-western part of Karnataka and has views of the Baba Budan mountains, streams and forests.

Day 10  - Chikmagalur/Mysore
Travel to Mysore (250km/4 hours) Explore the Maharaja's Palace and the Brindavan gardens prior to arrival at the Windflower Spa and Resort for a two night stay.

Day 11 - Mysore
Windflower Spa and Resort is located in 10 acres of gardens at the foot of Chamundi Hill. The Emerge Spa offers a range of treatments including Ayuverda, yoga and meditation.

Day 12 - Mysore
Depart Mysore for your onward journey.