DISCOVER KARNATAKA

Duration: 10 Nights/11 Days

Places: Bangalore → Mysore → Hassan → Hospet → Hampi → Badami → Goa

Day 1/2: Bangalore

Bangalore has been put on the international map by the immensely successful software industry. Bangalore is proud of its strongest traditions, the clamor of commerce, the serenity of vast green park lands, temples, quiet back lanes, bustling bazaars and dazzling shopping arcades all woven together in a mystic bond. The city offers plenty for sight-seeing like the ISKCON temple (Krishna temple), Lalbagh Gardens (Botanical Park), Vidhana Soudha (State Legislature and Secretariat Building), Bull Temple, Government Museum (acclaimed as one of the oldest museum in India), etc.

Day 3/4: Mysore

Former capital of the princely state, Mysore is Karnataka’s second largest city. It is the city of royal Palaces, sandalwood and silk. The city offers many fascinating markets, the Maharaja’s Palace and the Jaganmohan Palace (with an excellent painting section) and good museums. It might be a nice option to spend a morning or afternoon climbing up Chamundi Hill. Famous rock cuttings and temples along the way make this climb even worth more the effort. Mysore also boasts of one the oldest and most popular zoos in India.

Day 5: Hassan (Belur, Halebid & Shravanabelgola)

Hassan is located in the heart of Malnad and is a suitable base for those who want to visit the archaeological and religious sites of Belur, Halebid and Shravanabelgola, all situated in close vicinity. The Hoysala rule between 11th to 13th centuries has left a profound impact on the architectural and cultural legacy of the region and it was during this time that most of the legendary and renowned temples of Belur and Halebid were constructed. Its proximity to Sravanabelagola, a Jain pilgrimage centre, Hassan has been deeply influenced by Jainism and Jain philosophy and mythology can readily be seen in the sculptures, paintings and literary works of the region.

Day 6/7: Hospet & Hampi

Hospet, a small town in Northern Karnataka, was once the seat of the powerful Vijayanagar Empire (1336 – 1646). Its importance lies in its close proximity to Hampi, formerly the  epitome of architectural wonders and a World Heritage Site. Hospet is the ideal base for tourists visiting Hampi and other nearby places. This glorious empire was ravaged by the Moghul invaders and the city was crushed and the entire kingdom was turned to ruins. The city today acts as repository of the prestigious remnants of the great Vijaynagar empire.

Day 8/9: Badami

Badami is known for its cave temples – all carved out of sandstone hills. The Badami Cave temple comprises of four caves: the third cave is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is the largest and the most picturesque. The caves represent different religious sects. In front of the cave temple, there is a reservoir dotted with temples on its bank. Among them, two are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one to Lord Shiva and the fourth is a Jain Temple. Badami Cave temples have some spectacular carving displaying the Hindu gods, Narashima and Hari Hara. The temples also have paintings on the ceiling and interesting bracket figures on the piers.

Day 10/11: Goa

Goa, also known as ‘the pearl of the east’, is popular for its palm-fringed beaches, Gothic churches, age-old ruins, coconut groves, ferry rides and bubbly folk music. With its 131-km-long coastline, Goa is the best beach holiday destination in India. Sun, sand and sea being the major attractions, Goa is a heaven for the ones who want relaxation. Goa is one of India’s special tourism destinations because of its fabulous weather, delightful people, good food, hill-top forts, little white-washed churches, soaring Portuguese-era cathedrals and a unique cultural legacy-small wonder.

On the last day, transfer to the airport and proceed to onward destination.

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