Overview
Discover the highlights of South India in complete and utter luxury. As our VIP guest, expect lavish suites in the finest hotels, top-notch service and unique activities that have been carefully curated by our local experts. From India’s famous Silicon Valley in Bangalore to the ruins of a magnificent kingdom, and verdant plantations frequented by mischievous elephant hordes to the golden sands of India’s premier beach destination – Goa, on this private luxury South India tour, there is much to uncover.
- Discover the highlights of South India in complete and utter luxury. As our VIP guest, expect lavish suites in the finest hotels, top-notch service and unique activities that have been carefully curated by our local experts.
- From India’s famous Silicon Valley in Bangalore to the ruins of a magnificent kingdom, and verdant plantations frequented by mischievous elephant hordes to the golden sands of India’s premier beach destination – Goa, on this private luxury South India tour, there is much to uncover.
Itinerary
On your arrival at the Bangalore Airport/Railway Station, get ready to be greeted by our representatives as they will be assisting you with your transfer to your hotel. We’ll check-in at the hotel and you can rest after a long journey here. We’ll get to know this beautiful city that’s famously dubbed “The Garden City.”
Overnight stay at Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru
- Enjoy your breakfast in the morning and relax until the time to hop on your ride for the day arrives. We’ll get to know this beautiful city that’s famously dubbed “The Garden City” through a half-day local city tour of Bangalore.
- We start with the legendary Nandi temple, the Dodda Basavana Gudi, also known as the Bull Temple located within the Bugle Rock Park. This ancient temple is said to be the largest Nandi Temple in the world with an image of the sacred vihana bull of Krishna just outside the building. Legend has it that the land was fertile and rich in groundnuts and peanuts harvests. But this bull used to cause damage that gradually became too much, the locals decided to build a temple to appease it. And it worked! Now a festival was held after this legend, known as the groundnut fair or Kadelakai Parase, to offer their harvests to Nandi.
- Then we head to the Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, a cave temple built by the Gautama Maharshi that’s over hundreds of years old as it was constructed in the Vedic period. The popular temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was renovated in the 16th century by Kempe Gowda and is recognized as one of the oldest temples in Bangalore. There are mysterious stone discs in the forecourt that was precisely designed and constructed to allow sunshine enters during certain time of the year. One can find rare idols of not just Shiva, but also Agnimurthi who had two heads, seven hands and three legs, and four monolithic pillars.
- We will see more ancient temples at Omkar Hills where fervent prayers are made at the Twelve Shiva Lingas: Sri Dwadasha Jyotirlinga. Sri Dwadasha Jyotirlinga was built in 2002 by Brahmaleena Sadguru Sri Shivapuri Mahaswamiji meant to provide an opportunity to devotees of Jyotirlinga Darshan. There are 10 Jyotirlingas, with the Omkareshwara Jyotirlinga being the largest idol standing at 1.8m/6ft tall that symbolizes its priority in the temple.
- Aside from this, there are also Sri Matsya Narayana Temple, Sri Naga devata Temple, Sri Vana Durga Temple, Sri Ganapathi Temple, and where the world’s biggest clock was made. The Sri Matsya Narayana Temple is known to be the sole temple dedicated to Sri Matsya Narayana Swamy, the first Avatar of Lord Vishnu. The Sri Naga Devata Temple is visited by devotees seeking for wealth, knowledge, salvation, and health, attained by praying and presenting offerings to the Naga Devatha, or snake god. Sri Vana Durga Temple, an open temple where one worships the goddess through lighting the camphor and praying. And the Sri Ganapathi Temple is where you can pray to lord Ganesha.
- Don’t miss out Bangalore’s own Big Ben, the Bangalore Ben, that’s a wonder as it is known as the world’s largest clock. It is 24ft in diameter and sits atop the Omkar Hills, the highest point in Bangalore. The clock itself weighs about 500kg and the clock hands alone weigh about 40kg.
- From the hill, we transfer to ISKCON Temple located at the Rajaji Nagar. Built atop the Hare Krishna Hill, the ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple is also one of the world’s largest ISKCON temple. It is more than just a temple and serves as also a cultural complex where several shrines and temples are also built. The Neo-classical architecture style combined with the precision of modern technologies is to be marveled.
- We head back to the hotel in the evening for an overnight stay in Bangalore.
- Overnight stay at Taj Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru
- Enjoy your breakfast today before we check out of your hotel and leave Bangalore. We’re heading to “The City of Palaces” Mysore by land and it’ll be a 3.5-hour ride, 150km far. We’ll be making several stops and visit a number of attractions to keep the long ride exciting and meaningful.
- Our first stop is the Srirangapatna, the capital of Tipu Sultan. This is actually an area that earned its name from the Ranganthaswamy temple built in 984, a place with religious and historical importance. It was the former capital of Mysore during the reign of the legendary King Tipu Sultan. Once we’re here, we’re obviously going to visit the famous temple itself, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, where the manifestation of Lord Vishnu, Ranganatha, is worshipped. This temple is one of the five main pilgrimage destinations in Sri Vaishnavism. It’s a truly ancient site as survey of the inscriptions found in the temple revealed that it was consecrated in 984 during the Western Ganga dynasty. The idol that you can find in this temple is believed to be the largest statue of Vishnu in Adidesha or reclining pose in Karnataka.
- Next, we’ll head to the Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace that is best known for its Indo-Islamic architecture. This place used to serve as the summer palace of the Mysorean ruler, Tipu Sultan. It is a two-story palace made of wood, mortar, stone and plaster, surrounded with a gorgeous garden. The interior is decorated with flower patterns on the walls. One can’t help but imagine what it would be like to be Tipu Sultan who’d spend his leisure time here.
- From the palace, we head out to Srirangapatna Fort which is a historically important structure that dates back to the time Kingdom of Mysore prevails. About 23km away from Mysore, it’s an easily accessible fort built in Indo-Islamic style in 1454 by Kempe Gowda. It has three round of fort walls and two layers of moats and to protect the fort, crocodiles and snakes were raised around the area as natural enemy repellents, creating one of the toughest forts to penetrate.
- We continue on our journey and follow to Tipu Sultan’s final resting place at Gumbaz. Also known as Gol Gumbad, is a Muslim mausoleum of Tipu Sultan that features the tomb and garden that wraps around it. Tipu was buried here in 1799, surrounded by a garden of cypress and a myriad of flowering trees and plants he got from French Mauritius, Ottoman Turkey, Persia, and more. The original carved doors have been removed to be displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum while the current ebony doors with ivory decorations were donated by Lord Dalhousie.
- Then we’ll head back to the hotel after the tour, chek in and overnight stay in Mysore.
- Overnight stay at Royal Orchid Brindavan Gardens
- Enjoy your breakfast today before we set off for a full-day sightseeing to see the grandeur past life of Mysore, the capital of Karnataka known for its rich culture and old architecture. Nerd minds and history buffs alike will love exploring this city that is filled with stories of times bygone as old buildings stand as silent witnesses to those times, not to mention the unapparelled views and shrines that exudes reverence.
- Starts with the Mysore Zoo, a 157-acre zoo that houses a wide range of wildlife and animals. As you head to the place, you’ll notice Chamundi Hills next to it that compliments the view of one of the oldest zoos in the country. It is the only zoo in India that has a gorilla, aside from orang utans and chimpanzees, and is a popular destination in Mysore for it. Families love spending quality, educational time here with the kids, introducing them to animals like giraffes, zebras, African elephants, bears, white deer, tapirs, otters, and more.
- From the zoo, we head next to the Mysore Palace, also known as the Maharaja’s Palace, a historical site that used to be the residence of the Wadiyars. It’s one of the most visited monuments in Mysore, featuring some incredible architectural feats and where some incredible artifacts from times bygone are kept safe. The palace is surrounded by greenery and is made of mostly fine grey granite stones and pink marble domes. There’s a 145-foot gilded gold tower that overlooks this structure, a five-story beloved home of the Wadiyars.
- We won’t stray far and head to Chamundi Hills known for its height and where the Chamundeshwari Temple was built. At almost the elevation of 3,500ft, one can enjoy the most incredible sight of Mysore city from above and naturally, cooler breeze and refreshing air. About 13kms away from the city, the Chamundeshwari Temple is a famous Shakti Peetha, known as the Krouncha Pitha where Sati’s hair fell. One can worship Shakti in the form of Chamundeshwari, which is her fierce form. It was originally said to have been built in the 12th century and the tower was added later in the 17th century.
- While we’re on the hills, let’s not miss visiting the famous Big Bull, a giant image of the Nandi or the vahana bull of Krishna. This remains as one of the oldest and most iconic landmarks in Mysore as it’s a 350-year-old Nandi statue. The Nandi of Mysore is about 16ft tall and 24ft long, an image commissioned by Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar in mid 1600s.
- Moving on, the Gothic architecture of St. Philomena’s Church is one to behold. The construction of this Catholic church mimics that of the famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York. It was built in 1936 and is now one of the tallest churches in Asia at 175ft with some of the most gorgeous Neo-gothic architecture.
- Then head to the Jaganmohan Palace, a royal mansion that is equipped with an auditorium and arts museum that showcases the artifacts and works of the past. Jaganmohan Palace was built in 1861 by Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar as a retreat for the royal family. Since it was converted into a museum, it has the largest collections of artifacts in South India.
- After the garden, spend your evening looking around at the local market and shopping districts. Take a dip in looking around what Mysore has to offer, from silk saris, sandalwood artifacts & handicrafts, incense sticks, coffee, wooden toys, and Ganjifa paintings, which is a kind of traditional Mysore paintings. Then we’ll head back to the hotel after the tour for an overnight stay in Mysore.
- Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel today in Mysore before we check-out. We’re going on a ride to Ooty, a scenic 4-hour ride away. Upon arrival in Ooty, we’re going to check-in at the hotel for you to rest. Prepare yourself for a half-day sightseeing later.
- We’re going to start with the Botanical Gardens in Ooty. This lush garden has rare trees such as the cork tree, the paper bark tree, and the monkey puzzle trees that monkeys can’t climb. There’s even a 20-million-year-old fossilized tree!
- Then to the beautiful Rose Garden where you can find over 20,000 varieties of roses from all around the world, including the unusual black and green roses. Admire the view from the garden to your heart’s content. And by evening, we’re going to visit the Ooty Lake and invite you to go horse riding and boating here (at extra cost). Or shop for snacks and local handicrafts to bring home.
- We’ll return to the hotel for your overnight stay in Ooty.
- Overnight stay at Sterling Ooty Fern Hill
- Post breakfast proceed your full day Ooty sightseeing covering Avalanche Lake, Emerald Lake,
- Avalanche Lake - At a distance of 26 kilometres from Ooty, it is one of the most beautiful lake's in Ooty. The lake is surrounded by a rolling landscape with blooming flowers like magnolias, orchids and rhododendrons. Apart from enjoying the picturesque views and the tranquillity in the vicinity, the place also has ample opportunities for fun and enjoyment for adventure freaks. After the Avalanche Check Point, it is mandatory to ride in government forest vehicles (INR 150 per person) to reach the lake.
- Emerald Lake - The lake is a part of the Silent Valley National Park in the Nilgiris District. Witness the sunset and sunrise in the Emerald Lake which is a must see. Tourists usually flock here for the picturesque scenic beauty of the lake, and the green Nilgiri slopes and tea plantations surrounding it. Shop for the best quality Nilgiri Tea.
- Ketti Valley View - a popular vantage point situated on Ooty - Coonoor Road in Nilgiris. The view of Ketti from the viewpoint is majestic and often compared to views of Switzerland. There is also a telescope room to get a closer view of the valley and surroundings. his valley also houses a popular brand of the needle making industry, known as Pony Needles.
- Return back to hotel. Evening free for own activity. Overnight stay at Ooty.
- Post breakfast check out from the hotel and proceed to Coorg (240Kms/6Hrs). On arrival check in to your hotel and relax. Proceed for half day Coorg sightseeing.
- Visit Abbey Falls - one of the most popular waterfalls of South India. The water cascade coming down from the cliff from a height of 70 feet provides a spectacular scene to behold. The walk to the falls from the main entrance has around 200 steps downwards through aromatic coffee, cardamom, pepper and other spice plantations whcih is yet another unique experience. Enjoy photography and nature.
- Next proceed to Raja's seat elevated at an altitude of 1500m famous for its picturesque sceneries of misty hills of Western Ghats. The spot offers a breathtaking view s of Sunset.
- Visit the Omkareshwara Temple - an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated in the town of Madikeri. The speciality of the temple is that its construction reflects a mix of Gothic and Islamic styles.
- Return to hotel in evening. Overnight stay at Coorg hotel.
- Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel before we leave for a half day sightseeing tour. Coorg is famous for their coffee plantations and the generally tranquil atmosphere as it’s a remote location with beautiful waterfalls. It’s earned them the title of the Scotland of India. It’s also formally known as the hill area in Karnataka, Kodagu.
- We’ll visit first the world’s second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet, Bylakuppe. This Tibetan settlement is about 80km from Mysore. The settlement began forming in 1960 before one settlement after another continued forming and making it one of the largest Tibetan settlements. It is now a small own with all the basic facilities such as a post office, schools, and lodges. You’ll love explore the gorgeous Tibetan architecture and artwork inside the Golden Temple, also known as the Namdroling Monastery, that was established in 1963. It’s known for the red doors with golden knockers, and intricate, ornate decorations on the temple tower and outer walls. The Golden Temple houses several 40-feet high golden statues of Guru Padmasambhava, Buddha Sakyamuni and Amityaus. There’s also a rich collection of paintings that depict Tibetan Buddhist mythology.
- Then we visit the Cauvery Nisaragadhama which is about 29km from Madikeri and 7km from Bylakuppe. It is an island that was formed by the River Cauvery with fertile soil, rich in sandalwood trees and bamboo groves. Visitors come here to enjoy outdoor activities and being back in nature. There’s a hanging rope bridge, deer park, rabbit park, peacock park, and orchidarium. You can try boating across the river, or try the elephant ride at extra cost.
- After we explore the island, we will head back to our hotel for overnight stay.
- Overnight stay at Amanvana Spa Resort - Coorg
Early morning post breakfast, checkout and proceed to Hampi- the World Heritage Center, is the most beautiful and evocative of all the ruins of Karnataka. Capital of Vijayanagar kingdom is full of delightful surprises. On arrival check into your hotel. Overnight stay at Hampi
Overnight stay at Heritage Resort Hampi
Spend the day at leisure today or explore Hampi by your own
Overnight stay at Heritage Resort Hampi
- Morning after breakfast set for an excursion to visit Vittala Temple. Vittala Temple is an ancient monument located on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River in Hampi. This temple is famous for its Stone Chariot and Musical Pillars. The temple is well-known for its exceptional architecture and unmatched craftsmanship. This predominant monument of Hampi is a major attraction of Hampi and is a must-see for visitors. After this visit to Pattabhirama Temple which represents the creative temple-building ventures of the Vijayanagara rulers. After this visit to Krishna temple which is one of the important places to visit Hampi and among the Group of Monuments which is currently listed as a part of the World Heritage Monuments by UNESCO. After this visit to Kadalekalu Ganesha temple which has the largest statue of Lord Ganesha (4.6 m/15 feet) and then finsh your day by visiting to Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex which is cluster of ancient temples situated on the Hemakuta hill in Hampi adjacent to Virupaksha temple.
- Return back to hotel and overnight stay.
- Overnight stay at Heritage Resort Hampi
Enjoy your breakfast today before we check-out. We’re going to prepare your ride for Bangalore Airport/Railway Station for your scheduled departure. The ride will take over 6 to 7 hours here. We bid you farewell as you go onwards for your journey.
Upon arrival in Goa, our representative will meet you and help you transfer to your hotel. Check-in into the hotel and spend rest of the day at leisure. Go around exploring the local area at your own pace, or visit the nearest beach to behold the sunset.
Overnight stay at The LaLiT Golf & Spa Resort Goa
- After breakfast, we start with the ancient Fort Aguada which was built in 1612. This fortress serves as a defensive structure against invaders from the seas, equipped with a lighthouse and was constructed near the Sinquerim Beach. The fort was constructed by the Portuguese to defend against Dutch attacks and is complete with a freshwater spring which was how the fort got the name “Aguada,” which means watery in Portuguese. The lighthouse was built later, in 1864, and is now the oldest of its kind in Asia. Then we’ll hit Sinquerim Beach. Walk down the fort and enjoy the picturesque view from Sinquerim beach, best known as the most scenic shores among tourists on top of being located near the ancient Aguada Fort.
- Then to Shree Mangesh Temple, also called Shri Manguesh Temple, located within Mangeshi Village of Goa. This gorgeous 400-year-old temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who’s worshipped in the form of Lord Mahueshi. Legends says that Lord Shiva who lost everything to Parvati over a game of dice came to Goa and disguised himself as a Tiger. He coincidentally scared Parvati who then asked to be rescued and Lord Shiva transformed back to his original form and followed her back. The name Manguesh came from Parvati who spoke “Mam Grisha” when asking for help. Goa is known for its serious of churches and convents of Old Goa. You don’t want to miss the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus, a church from the 1600s and the most popular church of Old Goa. It is within the UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains as an iconic landmark in Goa. Bom Jesus means “Good/Baby Jesus” As you enter the Jesuit church, you’ll see what remains some well-preserved remains of baroque architecture brought in by the Portuguese, earning it a place in the Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World. We’ll also visit Church of Our Lady, which is a Gothic-style church first built in 1541 on a hill that overlooks Panjim. The imposing design is credited to a famed architect of his time, Antoni Gaudi. Initially built as a chapel, it became a Paris in 1600 before a major construction took place in 1609 and turned it into the church we know today. In 18th century, the iconic symmetrical zigzag stairs were added and finally, Goa’s second largest bell tower in 1871. Then we move to where Goa’s largest bell is located, the Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina, a cathedral built to celebrate the Portuguese victory over a Muslim army in 1510 before capturing Old Goa on the day of the feast of Saint Catherine. The construction finished in 1619 since it began in 1562 and houses some of the most historically valuable artworks, paintings, sculptures, and the Chapel of the Cross of Miracles it was said a vision of Christ appeared on the year the construction finished. But if being in the crowd has been draining your energy, you’ll appreciate the quiet surrounding Dona Paul Beach has to offer. Named after a woman of charity in Portuguese India, Dona Paula Amaral Antónia de Souto Maior, the villagers of Dona Paula renamed their village with hers to honor her memory after her contribution to improve the village’s quality of life. Today, people love to visit the beach which is only visited during peak seasons and is considerably sparse of people otherwise. Enjoy the gorgeous view of Mormugao Harbour, a major trading port of India since 1963, as vessels make their way in and out after exporting iron ores that reach 27.33 million tons a year. Miramar Beach of Goa is another stunning place you don’t want to miss. It used to be called the Gasper Dias Beach and is a hotspot for hangout or take part in watersport activities. Restaurants and bars can also be seen lining up near the beach with a great nightlife aspect as people join the beach party where famous Goan drinks and foods are served.
- If you have been dying to shop in Goa, then you’ll love Panjim Market, the haven of shopping lovers for local products, souvenirs, snacks, and anything you want in Goa. Take home something of Goa from here and maybe along with gifts to share with your loved ones back home. Spice up your trip with Mandovi River Cruise at an extra cost. For around one hour, you’ll be taken on a ride on luxurious cruise through the Mandovi River and with the sunset as your backdrop. There is live DJ music, traditional dance performances in the Carnival Village before boarding.
- Overnight at Goa.
After breakfast, relax and explore what your hotel has to offer.
Check-out from the hotel and get transferred to the airport to board your flight back home.