Karnataka Temples, Hills & Goa

Welcome to Bengaluru, the cosmopolitan capital of Karnataka. On arrival, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel. If time allows, explore the city’s highlights such as the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, Bangalore Palace, or the lively streets of Church Street. Bengaluru is known for its pleasant climate, colonial charm, and buzzing café culture—a perfect introduction to South India.

Drive to Mysore (approx. 3.5 hours), once the capital of the Wodeyar dynasty. Visit the stunning Mysore Palace, an Indo-Saracenic marvel adorned with stained glass, wood carvings, and royal artifacts. Explore the colorful Devaraja Market and, if time permits, visit Chamundi Hill for panoramic views and its revered temple. Don’t miss the evening palace illumination.

Head to Kabini (approx. 2 hours), a serene region on the banks of the Kabini River bordering Nagarhole National Park. After check-in at a jungle lodge, enjoy a boat safari or relax by the riverside. Kabini is famed for its rich biodiversity, especially elephants, leopards, and birdlife. It’s an ideal escape into the wilderness.

Wake early for a thrilling jeep safari through Nagarhole’s dense forests. With some luck, you may spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and wild dogs. Return for lunch and unwind at the lodge, or enjoy a nature walk with a naturalist. An evening boat ride or campfire by the river rounds off your jungle experience.

Drive to Coorg (approx. 3.5 hours), also called the Scotland of India. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Coorg is known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and spice farms. On arrival, visit a local plantation or enjoy a walk through lush estates. Coorg offers a peaceful hill retreat and a glimpse into Kodava culture.

Spend the day discovering Coorg’s natural beauty. Visit Abbey Falls, the sacred Omkareshwara Temple, and Raja’s Seat for stunning views. Explore a coffee estate or take a guided spice plantation tour. Optional activities include river rafting, nature walks, or visiting Dubare Elephant Camp. Unwind in the cool climate with mountain views.

Start an early morning drive to Chitradurga (approx. 6 hours). Upon arrival, explore the impressive Chitradurga Fort, a sprawling hilltop fortress with massive stone walls, ancient temples, and secret passages. Rich in history and legends, it offers panoramic views and a fascinating look into Karnataka’s military architecture.

Continue to Hampi (approx. 4 hours), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Explore its surreal boulder-strewn landscape and visit the Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Bazaar, and riverside ghats. Catch the sunset from Hemakuta Hill for breathtaking views of the ruins.

Spend the day exploring Hampi’s wonders. Highlights include the Vittala Temple with its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars, the Lotus Mahal, Queen’s Bath, Elephant Stables, and royal enclosures. Learn about the city’s glorious past and architectural brilliance as you wander through its timeless ruins.

Drive to Badami (approx. 3.5 hours), famous for its spectacular 6th-century cave temples carved into sandstone cliffs. Visit the cave temples dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist deities, explore Agastya Lake, and take in the views from the hilltop. If time allows, explore nearby Pattadakal and Aihole, known for early Chalukya temple architecture.

After breakfast, drive to Hubli Airport (approx. 2.5–3 hours) for your short flight to Goa. Arrive in South Goa and transfer to a beach resort. Unwind on the serene beaches and enjoy the laid-back Goan atmosphere—perfect after your journey through Karnataka’s heartland.

Enjoy a relaxed day at the beach or explore Goa’s natural side. Optional activities include kayaking in the backwaters, visiting a spice plantation, or birdwatching. For culture lovers, visit Old Goa’s churches, a UNESCO site. For complete relaxation – sunbathe on quiet beaches like Palolem or Patnem, explore the colonial villages of South Goa, or try a yoga or wellness session. Optional river cruises or cycling tours are available for the active traveler.

Your unforgettable journey through Karnataka’s cultural heart and Goa’s coastal paradise comes to an end. Transfer to Goa International Airport for your onward or international flight. Take with you timeless memories of palaces, wildlife, ancient ruins, and the gentle rhythm of the Arabian Sea.
Namaste & safe travels!