13 Days Mumbai and Karnataka Tour

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Tour Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey through the heart of India with our detailed tour plan. Your adventure begins in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, where you’ll be greeted with warmth and transferred to your hotel. Dive into the vibrant pulse of the city as you explore its iconic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Elephanta Caves, the Prince of Wales Museum, and the historic Mani Bhawan. Discover the intricate blend of cultures as you stroll past the famous Dhobi Ghat and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the local market.

Next, you’ll soar to Bangalore, where modernity meets tradition. Uncover the city’s secrets, visiting the Tipu Sultan’s Palace and the Bull Temple. Wander through the lush Lalbagh Botanical Gardens and witness the grandeur of Vidhana Soudha, the state legislature. A drive through the lush countryside takes you to Mysore, where ancient treasures await. Visit the exquisite Sri Ranganathaswami temple at Srirangapatnam and delve into the intricacies of the Somnathpur temples’ unique Hoysala architecture. Explore the cultural treasures of Mysore, from its opulent palace to the serene Chamundi hills.

Continue your journey to Chikmagalur, where 12th-century Hoysala temples at Belur and Halebid unveil their incredible stone carvings. Step into history in Hospet, near the UNESCO-listed ruins of Vijayanagara, and marvel at the Vijayanagar ruins at Hampi, a treasure trove of historical wonders. Your exploration then takes you to Bijapur, where the Gol Gumbaz and Ibrahim Roza stand as testament to the region’s architectural splendor. The ancient temple cities of Aihole and Pattadakal showcase a rich blend of North and South Indian architectural styles, offering a glimpse into ancient dynasties.

As your journey nears its end, unwind in the tropical paradise of Goa. Explore the striking churches of Old Goa and find serenity on its sun-kissed beaches. Your grand adventure concludes with a flight back to Mumbai, where you’ll carry cherished memories of India’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural tapestry that has woven your journey into an unforgettable tapestry of experiences.

Duration:  13 Days / 12 Nights

Places:  Mumbai > Bangalore > Srirangapatnam > Mysore > Chikmagalur > Hospet > Bijapur > Badami > Goa > Mumbai

Destinations Covered

Mumbai: The vibrant and bustling city of Mumbai welcomes you with its energetic atmosphere and captivating diversity. From the ancient Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, to the historic Prince of Wales Museum and the Gandhi memorial at Mani Bhawan, Mumbai offers a blend of cultural and historical experiences. The city’s iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and the Dhobi Ghat showcase its contrasting facets, while the local market offers a glimpse into the daily life of its residents.

Bangalore: Known as the “Garden City” and the “Silicon Valley of India,” Bangalore is a modern metropolis with a rich historical background. Visit the elegant Tipu Sultan’s Palace and the sacred Bull Temple, both reflecting the city’s heritage. The lush Lalbagh Botanical Gardens provide a serene escape, while the grand Vidhana Soudha building stands as a testament to its administrative importance.

Mysore: Steeped in history and regal charm, Mysore presents a perfect blend of architectural wonders and cultural heritage. Explore the intricate Sri Ranganathaswami temple in Srirangapatnam and the stunning Hoysala-style temples at Somnathpur, showcasing exceptional stone carvings. The opulent Mysore Palace, nestled against the backdrop of Chamundi Hills, is a captivating sight.

Chikmagalur: Chikmagalur offers a unique opportunity to witness the intricate Hoysala architecture at the Belur and Halebid temples. Admire the elaborate stone carvings that tell stories of ancient legends and deities.

Hospet and Hampi: Hospet serves as a gateway to the UNESCO-listed ruins of Vijayanagara, where the ancient city of Hampi stands as a mesmerizing archaeological treasure trove. The surreal landscape of boulders, intricate temples, and captivating ruins offers a glimpse into the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Bijapur: Bijapur boasts architectural marvels like the Gol Gumbaz, the largest dome in the world, and the stunning Ibrahim Roza tomb. Jama Masjid, Gagan Mahal, and Bijapur Castle offer further insights into the city’s historical significance.

Badami: The town of Badami holds the key to the glorious past of the Chalukya dynasty. The Aihole and Pattadakal temples, with their intricate designs and rich sculptures, provide a glimpse into the artistic and architectural prowess of the era.

Goa: The sun-soaked beaches and rich cultural heritage of Goa offer a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Admire the awe-inspiring churches of Old Goa, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral. Relax on the sandy shores and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal paradise.

This comprehensive tour takes you on a remarkable journey through India’s historical, cultural, and architectural treasures, offering a diverse range of experiences that will leave you enriched and enchanted.

Detailed Tour Plan

Day 01: Mumbai 

Arrive Mumbai – Meeting & assistance on arrival at Airport.

mumbai chhatrapati shivaji international airport

Transfer to hotel. Stay overnight at hotel

Day 02: Mumbai 

Breakfast at hotel is followed with the sightseeing tour of Mumbai.

Elephanta Caves

Visit Elephanta Caves (closed on Monday) – The Elephanta Caves are characterized by rock temples carved out of two hills that emerge from the centre of the island. It is said that the Portuguese named this island after the stone elephant they found here. At Elephanta you can see the cave shrine to Lord Shiva, which belongs to the sixth century, and a massive three-headed sculpture representing Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer.

Prince of Wales Museum

Afternoon visit Prince of Wales Museum (Closed on Monday), Mani Bhawan, Choppati and Dhobi Ghat( washermen point). Prince of Wales museum has a priceless collection of art, sculpture, china and other antics carefully preserved. This Mid-Victorian Gothic style building with beautiful gardens surrounding it was built in 1904. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Mumbai –Bangalore (Flight)

After breakfast check out of the hotel. In time transfer to airport to connect flight to Bangalore.

Bangalores-botanical-gardens

On arrival at Bangalore, transfer to your hotel. Afternoon proceed for Bangalore city sightseeing –  Beautiful gardens to serene lake to magnificent palaces, the city offers a wide variety to its visitors.

Palace-of-Tipu-Sultan

Visit Tipu Sultan’s Palace – Tipu Sultan Palace was initially built by Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore. The fort was later extended by Tipu Sultan, the Emperor of Mysore. Situated near the City Market, the fort dates back to the year 1537.

bull temple bangalore

Also visit Bull Temple, Lalbagh – Hyder Ali, the Emperor of Mysore laid the foundation of the Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens in the 18th century. The gardens were later completed by his son, Tipu Sultan. Vidhana Soudha is the seat of the state legislature of Karnataka and is one of the most impressive buildings in Bangalore. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 04:  Bangalore – Srirangapatnam – Mysore (Surface Drive)

After Early breakfast, drive to Mysore en-route visit Srirangapatnam, the city established by King Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan.

Sri-Ranganathaswami-Temple-1

Visit Sri Ranganathaswami temple. Srirangam is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu . It is also considered the first, foremost and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). This temple is also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, Periyakoil, Bhoologa Vaikundam, Bhogamandabam. This temple lies on an islet formed by the twin rivers Cauvery and Coleroon. After visit continue drive to Mysore. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Mysore

After breakfast at hotel drive for excursion to Somnathpur.

Somnathpur temples

Somnathpur’s temples adhere to the typical Hoysala style of architecture, where the temple is designed as a mini cosmos with scenes carved on the walls including Gods, Goddesses, dancing girls, musicians, gurus and all kinds of animals including elephants, lions, cows and monkeys. Its unique design and perfect symmetry are ignored amidst the farms and agricultural lands of surrounding villages.

Afternoon visit Mysore city – Mysore Palace and Chamundi hills and the local market. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 06: Mysore – Chikmagalur (Surface Drive)

After Breakfast drive to Chikmagalur en-route visit 12th Century Hoysala Temple at Belur and Halebid (museum closed on Fridays).

Hoysala Temple at Belur

The small towns of Belur and Halebid in Karnataka are home to some of the most unique temples in South India.

Hoysala Temple at Belur

These temples are known for their unique detailed carvings and sculptures. The Hoysala temple artists were extremely skilled craftsmen, and the Hoysala temples are famous for their incredibly detailed decorations and their unique soapstone sculptures.

temples-at-Halebid

Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 07 : Chikmagalur – Hospet (Surface Drive)             

Post Breakfast check out of the hotel and drive to Hospet. Arrive at Hospet and check-in at hotel.

Hospet

Hospet is 12 km from the World Heritage site consisting of the ruins of the medieval city of Vijayanagara, former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire.  Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 08: Hospet – Hampi – Hospet (Surface Drive)

Breakfast at hotel. Check out of the hotel and drive to Hospet.

HampiFull day excursion to Vijayanagar ruins at Hampi. Hampi is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra river. Hampi is also the World Heritage Site.

On arrival check in and stay overnight at hotel.

Day 09: Hospet – Bijapur (Surface Drive)

After breakfast drive to Bijapur.

Gol Gumbaz Bijapur

Afternoon visit Gol Gumbaz-  The most important attraction in Bijapur. Gol Gumbaz is an architectural wonder and the largest dome in the world. The dome dominates miles of area by its sheer size and it is difficult to suppress the urge to see the dome once you are there. Ibrahim Roza – The tomb of the illustrious Adil Shahi Sultan Ibrahim II (1580-1627). The tomb is built to perfection and is an example of unstinting technical care and skilled artistry without any equals.

Jami Masjid Bijapur

Jama Masjid – Built in 1686, during the rule of Adil Shah I, the Jami Masjid of Bijapur is a stately structure that is sober and massive.

Gagan Mahal Bijapur

Gagan Mahal -was built by Adil Shah I (1561) as a part of the palace-cum-audience hall. Saat Manzil or the seven-storey tower near the Gagan Mahal is now mostly in ruins.

Bijapur Castle

Bijapur Castle – The 16th-century Bijaipur Castle was built by Rao Shakti Singh, the younger brother of Maharana Pratap Singh in the 16th century.  Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Bijapur – Badami (Surface Drive) 

Post breakfast drive to Badami. Check in at your hotel.

Ceiling carvings of Durga temple, Aihole

Afternoon visit to Aihole and Pattadakal – The ancient temple cities of state Karnataka. Both towns were the capitals of the Chalukya Empire.

Pattadakal

Pattadakal showcases some of the rare specimen of temple art forms of ancient India depicting a marvelous blend of North and South Indian architectural. Virupaksha temple is considered the masterpiece. The group of monuments in Pattadakal were nominated in 1987 by UNESCO for its world cultural heritage list. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Badami– Goa (Surface Drive) 

Post breakfast drive to Goa. Check in to hotel. Day at leisure.

Goa Beach

Stay overnight at hotel

Day 12: Goa

Breakfast at hotel is followed with the sightseeing tour of Goa.

Visit the famous Churches of Old Goa and Temples followed with the free time to relax at the beaches.

basilica of bom jesus goa

The sight seeing tour starts with the visit to Basilica of Bom Jesus – The sacred relics of the patron saint of Goa St. Francis Xavier are kept here. The basilica is one the world heritage monuments and of the seven heritage monuments in Goa.

se cathedral goa

Visit to Se Cathedral – This is the largest cathedral in Asia. The Se cathedral has five bells out of which one is the famous Golden Bell which is one the largest in the world.

fort aguada goa

Visit to Fort Aguada – The fort was one of the most important places in Goa and the most crucial of all forts in Goa. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 13 : Goa – Mumbai (Flight) 

Breakfast at hotel, morning at leisure in hotel.

Afternoon check out of the hotel and in time transfer to airport to connect flight to Mumbai. On arrival Mumbai transfer to International Airport to connect onward flight.

End of Tour

FAQs about the Tour

q: What are the major attractions in Mumbai?
a: Mumbai offers attractions like the Elephanta Caves, Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway of India, and Dhobi Ghat.

q: What can I explore in Bangalore?
a: In Bangalore, you can visit Tipu Sultan’s Palace, Bull Temple, Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, and Vidhana Soudha.

q: What historical sites are there in Mysore?
a: Mysore is known for its Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, and intricate Hoysala temples in Somnathpur.

q: What are the highlights of Chikmagalur?
a: Chikmagalur boasts the stunning Belur and Halebid temples with intricate Hoysala architecture.

q: What makes Hampi special?
a: Hampi is famous for its UNESCO-listed Vijayanagara ruins, showcasing mesmerizing temples and captivating ruins.

q: What attractions can I see in Bijapur?
a: Bijapur features attractions like Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Roza tomb, Jama Masjid, and Bijapur Castle.

q: What awaits in Badami?
a: Badami offers a chance to explore Aihole and Pattadakal temples, showcasing Chalukya dynasty’s architectural prowess.

q: What can I enjoy in Goa?
a: Goa offers beautiful beaches, historic churches like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, and a vibrant cultural scene.

q: How does the tour balance relaxation and exploration?
a: The tour combines visits to historical sites with leisure time on beaches, providing a balanced experience.

q: What is the overall theme of this tour?
a: This tour takes you through India’s historical, cultural, and architectural gems, offering a diverse and enriching journey.

Get a Quote: Call/Whatsapp: +91 9810954649 or Fill Contact Form

Let us know if you like a Tour. We will be happy to customize any tour to your requirements. You can specify changes you need using the form given below.  We will send you a quote by email. For booking related queries you can call Mr.Praveen Kumar at +91 9810954649.

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