Deccan India, with Goa & Mumbai

Day 1 - Hyderabad

You are met by a representative in the arrival area of the airport after you clear all immigration and customs formalities. Depart for your hotel where you will check in for your stay. Hyderabad, a city steeped in history of Opulence and finery, Hyderabad is now one of the many bustling cities of India. Brimming with people and flourishing commerce, it is known to be one of those cities steeped in culture. From the ancient evocative city centre around the iconic Charminar which to the swanky IT hubs and zones, there is a sense of tangible modernity and quaint in the city waiting to be explored. Start sightseeing around 12 noon by visiting the Char Minar, flanked on all sides by the main bazaar area of Hyderabad this iconic structure commemorates the founding of Hyderabad city. An excellent blend of the Indo-Islamic architecture, Charminar is one of the places that will come to mind when one thinks of Hyderabad. Climb up to the first floor to get sweeping view of the chaotic bazaar. This is also where you can get a taste of authentic Iranian tea and biscuits. Stop at the Mecca Masjid, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the entire country where it is claimed some of the bricks used in its constructions are from Mecca. End the tour with a visit to the Chowmahalla Palace which was built over 200 years ago and has been meticulously restored. It is renowned for its unique style and elegance - a synthesis of many architectural styles and influences.

Meals Included -  None

Day 2 - Hyderabad

The impressive Golconda Fort was founded as early as the 12th century by the Kakatiyas but became a fortified citadel in the 16th century under the rule of the Qutab Shahis. A visit to the fort reveals the architectural beauty in many of the pavilions, gates, entrances and domes. Within the fort there was an ingenious ‘water cooling’ system where laminated clay pipes and huge Persian wheels carried water up about 61 metres to the palace chambers. Golconda is best known for its diamonds and it was from here that the famous Koh-I-Noor and Hope diamonds were taken. When the fort fell to Aurangzeb in 1678 he tore it apart looking for diamonds and gold in the foundations.  The Qutub Shahi tombs, close to the fort, display a fine collection of decorated 17th century tombs. Each tomb of black granite or greenstone with plaster decoration is built on a square or octagonal base with a large onion dome and arches. Within the complex is a ‘hammam’ where the body of the kings were washed before burial.  Spend the evening walking around the main bazaar to get some candid photos and have an up-close encounter with the locals.

Meals Included - Breakfast

Day 3 - Hyderabad - Hampi

After an early breakfast, you will be assisted & transferred to Hyderabad Airport for a  flight to Vidyanagar (2T623 08:30 / 09:40) Arrive Vidyanagar airport, come to the departure gate where you will be met with a representative who will assist you & introduce you to your driver who will transfer you to your hotel in Hampi for check-in.  Hampi was the thriving capital city of the Vijayanagara Empire until the second half of the 16th century, when it was laid siege to and ultimately overrun by the Sultan of Bijapur. The stories of its prosperity, wealth and military prowess have been recorded by travellers of the yore in their accounts. Today what sets Hampi apart from the historical sites across India is the magnitude of its ruins that dot this surreal landscape giving it an eerie and mystical timelessness.  This evening you will hike up the Matanga hill to get a splendid view of the sun setting over the boulder and ruin strewn land of Hampi.

Meals Included – Breakfast

Day 4 - Hampi

Today is dedicated to discovering the historical city of Hampi part on foot and part by car, which was ruled for nearly 200 years by the Vijayanagara Empire. The 1600 monuments at Hampi spread over an area of 16 sq. kilometres have been given the World Heritage site status by UNESCO.  The monuments in Hampi are divided into the temple complex and the Royal Complex. The temple complex houses the Virupaksha temple, Hemakuta hill and extends all the way up to the Krishna Temple and the erstwhile market area.  The royal complex encompasses Queen’s bath, Laxmi Narayan temple, Underground Shiva Temple, the palace remains, the Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Mahanavami Dibba, and the step well.  In the evening visit the Vitthala Temple Complex which is the major attraction in Hampi. This Temple complex houses a replica of the Stone Chariot in Konark albeit smaller. The hall of musical pillars is enchanting though entry is prohibited.  In the course of this tour get to know how the lifestyle of the Vijayanagara kings and how Hampi is also associated with the Ramayana – an ancient Indian epic. 

Meals Included -  Breakfast 

Day 5 - Hampi

Enjoy a day of leisure in Hampi

Meals Included - Breakfast

Day 6 - Hampi - Badami

After breakfast, check out and proceed to Badami, en-route visit Aihole and Pattadakal. Aihole is famous as the Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture has over 125temples all intricately carved and rich in detail, famous ones include the Lad Khan Temple, the Drug (fort) temple and the Ravalphadi Cave temple. Pattadakal- A World Heritage centre has 10 major temples representing early Chalukyan architecture.  After sightseeing continue your drive to Badami, the evening is at leisure.

Meals Included - Breakfast

Day 7 - Badami

After breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing of Hampi by visting Badami cave temples - Witness the Brahmanical style carvings in the caves of Badami on your Karnataka trip. No doubt, the intricate carvings and the depictions in the  temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and to the Jain Tirthankaras widely acclaimed for their beauty. Visit the Bhoothanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, its charm is enhanced by its position against the Agatya Lake. 

Hike to the top of the cliff for a breathtaking vision of the rustic, yet robust Badami Fort built in the 18th century by Tipu Sultan. Meanwhile, bring out your inner spiritualist while you roam about the endless stunning temples within its premises. Also, satisfy the history hacker in you with the magnificent Shivalaya complexes dating back to the 5th century.  The evening is free to explore a local market.

Meals Included – Breakfast 

Day 8 - Badami - Goa

Today you will be drive to Goa - a long journey of around 8 hours as the Karnataka scenery glides past.  Upon arrival proceed to check in at your hotel.  Evening is free to explore at your leisure.

Meals Included – Breakfast

Day 9 - Goa

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Goa

Meals Included - Breakfast

Day 10 - Goa

Enjoy another  full day at leisure in Goa, perhaps explore a local market or just relax on the beach.

Meals Included - Breakfast

Day 11 - Goa - Mumbai

After breakfast, you will be assisted & transferred to Goa Airport for a flight to Mumbai (6E6097 13:10 – 14:445). On arrival at Mumbai airport, you will be met with a representative who will assist you & introduce you to your driver who will transfer you to your hotel for check-in.  Evening is free to explore at leisure, perhaps take a stroll to Nariman Point?

Meals Included - Breakfast

Day 12 - Mumbai

This morning visit the Elephanta caves accessible by boarding a ferry at the Gateway of India. The Gateway of India is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bombay. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George and Queen Mary to India in 1911. You will be then drive along Marine Drive, Mumbai’s seafront boulevard  In the afternoon visit Prince of Wales museum, Mani Bhawan and drive past the Gateway of India, Victoria Terminus, The Taj Mahal Hotel, Crawford Market, Marine Drive, and the cities largest slum, Dharavi. 

Meals Included – Breakfast

Day 13 - Mumbai

Today your tour concludes in Mumbai with an assisted transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals Included - Breakfast