Sculpted Wonders of the South

Sculpted Wonders of the South

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11 Days From

$1864

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Tour Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey through the "Sculpted Wonders of the South" tour, a meticulously curated exploration of Southern India's architectural treasures. Delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Bangalore, Mysore, Hampi, and Goa as each city unfolds its unique blend of historical opulence and artistic brilliance. Wander through ornate palaces, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and marvel at ancient temples carved with precision. From the regality of Mysore Palace to the mystical ruins of Hampi and the coastal allure of Goa, this expedition promises a kaleidoscope of architectural marvels that will leave an indelible mark on your senses. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Arrive in Bangalore and relax or explore the surroundings.

  • Visit Bangalore’s landmarks like Lalbagh Gardens, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, then head to Mysore.

  • Explore Mysore’s Palace, Jaganmohan Palace, Chamundi Hill, and travel to Hassan.

  • Visit Belur and Halebeedu temples, then journey to Hospet/Hampi to explore UNESCO sites.

  • Discover Hampi’s ruins, including Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Lotus Mahal.

Places You'll See

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Architecture of South India

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive Bangalore

Location: Bengaluru

Accommodation: Hotel

Begin your architectural sojourn in the bustling city of Bangalore. As you step off the plane, the city welcomes you with its dynamic energy. Our representative will meet you at the airport and guide you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore the vibrant surroundings.

Day 2 : Bangalore - Mysore (145kms/3hrs approx.)

Location: Mysuru

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a delightful breakfast, delve into Bangalore's architectural tapestry. Visit the enchanting Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, the historic Bull Temple, and the evocative Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace. The spiritual resonance of the ISKCON Temple and the regal charm of Bangalore Palace will captivate your senses. In the afternoon, set forth on a picturesque drive to Mysore, where your hotel awaits.

Day 3 : Mysore - Hassan (120kms/2.5hrs approx.)

Location: Hassan

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Mysore, a city of cultural opulence, unfolds its architectural marvels. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Mysore Palace, explore the artistic treasures of Jaganmohan Palace, and wander through City Palace. A pilgrimage to Chamundi Hill adds a spiritual touch to the day. Later, venture towards Hassan, where tranquility beckons at your hotel.

Day 4 : Hassan - Hospet/ Hampi (330kms/7hrs approx.)

Hampi, India

Location: Hampi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Awake to the historical richness of Belur Chennakeshava Temple and the intricate Halebeedu Hoysaleswara Temple. The journey then leads to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hospet/Hampi. Witness the architectural wonders of Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Lotus Mahal, and the panoramic Anjeyanadri Hill.

Day 5 : Hospet/ Hampi

Hampi, India

Location: Hampi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day unfolds amidst the ancient ruins of Hampi, where each stone narrates a tale. Traverse the majestic Virupaksha Temple, admire the artistic brilliance of Vittala Temple, and discover the serenity of Hazara Rama Temple. Wander through the unique architecture of Lotus Mahal and absorb the breathtaking views from Anjeyanadri Hill.

Day 6 : Hospet/ Hampi - Badami (195kms/4hrs approx.)

Location: Badami

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to Badami via the historic towns of Gadag and Lakkundi. Explore the spiritual ambiance of Trikuteshwara Temple and Veeranarayana Temple in Gadag. Lakkundi invites you to delve into the Kasi Vishwanatha Temple, Brahma Jinalaya, and an intriguing Museum. As the day concludes, check into your hotel in Badami.

Day 7 : Badami - Aihole - Pattadakal (70kms/round)

Location: Badami

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Badami reveals its artistic prowess with visits to the awe-inspiring Badami Cave Temples, the sacred Bhutanatha Temples, and the revered Banashankari Temple. The journey continues to the architectural splendors of Pattadakkal Group of Monuments and Aihole Group of Monuments.

Day 8 : Badami - Goa (235kms/5hrs approx.)

Goa, India

Location: Goa

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transition from the historical grandeur of Badami to the coastal allure of Goa. Check into your hotel and savor a leisurely day exploring the pristine beaches or immersing yourself in the local culture.

Day 9 : Goa

Goa, India

Location: Goa

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a journey through Goa's architectural treasures. Visit the revered Basilica of Bom Jesus, the grand Se Cathedral, the charm of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, the historic Fort Aguada, and the serene Anjuna Beach.

Day 10 : Goa

Goa, India

Location: Goa

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

A day of leisure in Goa, offering the opportunity to explore bustling local markets, indulge in water sports, or simply unwind on the sun-kissed beaches.

Day 11 : Goa – Departure

Goa, India

Location: Goa

As the architectural odyssey concludes, relish a final breakfast before being seamlessly transferred to the airport for your onward journey. The "Architecture of South India" journey is a symphony of historical narratives and awe-inspiring structures, leaving an indelible imprint on your memories.

What's Included

  • 10 Nights accommodation in 4* hotels.

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.

  • Daily Breakfast at hotels

  • Private air conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.

  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

  • Monuments entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Bottled drinking water in car.

  • Government taxes.

What's Not Included

  • Any flight tickets.

  • Camera charges at monuments if any.

  • Meals other than mentioned in the inclusions.

  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.

  • Gratuities and optional activities.

  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Accommodation

Hotels used or similar for 10 nights accommodation
4 Star Hotels
Bangalore x 1 night: Lemon Tree Premier/ Gokulam Grand Hotel & Spa
Mysore x 1 night: Fortune Park JP Palace/ Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden
Hassan x 1 night: Hosyala Village Resort/ Rosetta By Ferns – Sakleshpur
Hampi x 2 nights: Heritage Resort/ Royal Orchid Central Keerti
Badami x 2 nights: Morpho Banashree Resort/ WADA1
Goa x 3 nights: Lemon Tree Hotel Candolim/ The Chances Resort & Casino
...more ...less

Check out our Q&As

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    Yes

  • What currencies are required for this tour?

    USD, EURO, GBP, JPY, CNY, RMB, SGD, CAD, AUD are accepted at most of the tourist shops. These currencies can easily be changed into local currency INR from money changer at the airport, in cities, and at hotels.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    We conduct our business fairly, with honesty, integrity and transparency. We deliver what we promise, and only promise what we can deliver.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Less than 10 person group only driver will be your companion. We use local government licenced tour guide in each cities for sightseeing tour.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    We do not operate tour on sharing

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    We are completely flexible in changing the travel dates, until we dont have to bourne any penalty levied by hotels/airline.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    5 Yeas

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Yes, you will support NGO and schooling for kids in villages.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We operate private tour/activity only for your group. Hence if you missed to join and tour departed, we can coordinate and you can join the tour from the nearest point.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Iitnerary and confirmation vouchers

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Face masks provided for travelers. Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff. Gear/equipment sanitized between use. Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized. Regular temperature checks for staff. Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

rikkita patel (Google Reviewer)  

Had the most Fantastic time,...

07-Feb-2024

Had the most Fantastic time, everything was organised amazingly down to a tee. Booked an 11 day tour (Hubbali, Hampi, Badami, Aihole, SolaPur aurangabad) I contacted Sashi at Agora and he basically took care of everything. I presented him with my dates and a rough plan of what I wanted to do, Sashi then put together an itinerary. The cost was really reasonable for 2 people. And during the booking stage I had to make several changes due to some changes in dates, Sashi accommodated and amended everything accordingly with no issues. Payment was done via a bank transfer which was simple. On the first day, our driver Raju bhai came to pick us up and was with us throughout the trip. He was absolutely exceptional. A calm, reliable and completely trust worthy driver who went above an beyond many times. There was always water in the car and he was incredibly knowledgeable, making some of the long drives really interesting. All the guides we had were really knowledgeable, explained everything really well. More so they were local guides who spoke good English and had a lot of insight into a lot of the archaeological sites we visited. All the hotels we stayed in were beautiful, clean and safe. Overall I would recommend Agora to anyone. The service was exceptional and as a result we had the most amazing trip. Often India is described as an unsafe place to travel m, particularly for two women, but we felt incredibly safe. Will definitely use Agora again in the future. ...more ...less

Edijs Sad (Google Reviewer)  

A very well organized tour...

24-Feb-2025

A very well organized tour of the Maharashtra and Kerala region with very good drivers and guides at each sight seeing site.

DOMENICA MENOLASCINA (Google Reviewer)  

The stay and tour in...

07-Mar-2024

The stay and tour in Mumbai have been exceptional. Although the hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, had been booked by us Agora Voyages offered the services requested, domestic flight from Delhi to Mumbai, car with driver and the local English speaking guides who took us to see the beautiful landmarks this city has to offer. What we highly appreciated was the details in planning out the sightseeing even though we had suggested what we would have liked to see. Agora Voyages is professional in offering the best of what the clients ask for. ...more ...less

Shobha D  

Our Hampi Holiday

10-Feb-2023

Our five-day, six-night holiday arranged by Agora Voyages Private Ltd., began on 26th January when we, four friends, landed at Hubballi. The agency had arranged a minibus to pick us up from the airport to our first halt at Badami. Our driver, Raghu, turned out to be not only skilful at driving but also very informative and bent on giving us a great time. On the way, we came across sunflower fields. Seeing us revelling at the wondrous sight of hundreds of sunflowers swaying in the cool breeze, Raghu stopped the bus so we could click pictures. Badami Court, where we spent two comfortable nights, turned out to be a decent hotel with tasty food and a courteous staff. The next morning, we left for Aihole, the capital of the Chalukyan kings and the cradle of Hindu rock architecture. Thanks to Agora, we were provided with helpful and enthusiastic guides, who doubled up as excellent photographers and gave us interesting and informative titbits. Kotresh, our guide in Aihole, Pattadakal and Badami, told us how Aihole got its name. The legend goes that after avenging the death of his father, Parasuram came down to the Malaprabha River to wash his blood-stained hands and battle axe. The river turned a bloody red. A woman seeing this, screamed, ‘Ayyo Hole!’ (meaning ‘Oh, no, blood!’ in Kannada). Since then the place came to be known as Ayyhole (Aihole). Kotresh also told us how the various temples got their names. For example, the Durga temple did not get its name from the goddess but because of its proximity to durg, meaning ‘fort’--- temples were part of fortification those days. Another 5th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was called the Lad Khan temple as Shree Lad Khan, a general of Adil Shahi had camped there during his military campaigns in the region. Until the Archeological department took possession of the area, local people lived in the temples. Kotresh showed us the holes, women used to pound masalas and grind rice, etc. We even saw children’s board games etched on to the stony floor. After feasting our eyes on the marvellous rock-cut shrines at Aihole, we drove to Pattadakal, meaning ‘coronation stone’. The exquisite temples here were built for commemoration and coronation. Later, Kotresh took us to a restaurant to relish the delicious local cuisine. Our stomachs full, we headed for Badami, to the spectacular rock cut cave temples located in a ravine, at the foot of two sandstone hills surrounding Lake Agastya. The place abounds in langurs and though Kotresh warned us to take care of our belongings, one little monkey succeeded in snatching a water bottle. The following day at Gadag, we were joined by Mr. Nagaraj, who was our guide for the remainder of our trip. Witty and articulate, he surprised us with his knowledge of Russian and French. He took us around the medieval Hindu and Jain temples and told us how the Veeranarayana temple, Trikuteshwara temple and the Jumma Masjid have a common Trust for administration and organization purposes. Jain temples and step wells were the highlights of Lakkundi. The annual Hampi Festival was on when we reached Hampi, so to avoid the large crowds, Nagaraj suggested that we leave around six in the morning for sightseeing. A wise decision, as we got to see the glorious sunrise from Matanga Hill, the place where Rama met Hanuman and Sugriva, the monkey king of Kishkinda. A UNESCO World heritage site like Pattadakal and Badami, Hampi is virtually an open air museum, with over 500 monuments of the Vijayanagara era. The Virupaksha temple with its musical pillars, now out of bounds for visitors, competed with temples like the Vittala temple in magnificence. The following morning we took a ride in a coracle. Our boat-man took us through rock caves and treated us to the sight of a swift which had brought food for its mate as she sat patiently guarding their nest on a rock. In the afternoon we visited the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary. Spread over an area of over 82 kilometres, it is the first sloth bear sanctuary in Asia. Seated inside a cage we watched two adult bears come down a rocky cliff, stopping to lick the large boulders on which the forest officials had smeared honey. En route, as we passed by the Tungabhadra canal, Jiggar, the naturalist from our resort pointed out at otters scampering playfully on the rocky bank and at an Indian eagle owl, which on seeing us, spread out its feathers and flew away, but not before letting us see how huge it was. Before we realized it, our holiday had come to an end, and we were at Hubballi airport, to catch the flight back to Mumbai. Thanks to Agora, we had one of the most memorable glimpses of a bygone era. ...more ...less

USA
Sanjib Saha (Google Reviewer)  

Wonderful customer service, great itineraries...

03-Mar-2024

Wonderful customer service, great itineraries and customization, competitive prices - couldn't ask for better. Shashi Gupta and his team has provided excellent service throughout the booking process, as well as checking in during the trip. Highly recommended. ...more ...less

Nesta Luxton  

Eastern Himalaya Tour (Darjeeling, Pelling, Gangtok & Kalimpong)

25-Dec-2021

This tour was absolutely outstanding: amazing views of Himalayan snow capped mountains, fascinating insights into culture and monasteries of Sikkim and great food. But especially good was our wonderful local guide Bipendra whose cheerfulness , many talents and knowledge made our tour fun. To make your trip even more special, I recommend staying in the luxurious 4 star Elgin hotels for a taste of Raj heritage. Also be aware that Sikkim requires extra passport photos and photocopy of passport. ...more ...less

Auburn, Australia
Ana Diaz Macias (Google Reviewer)  

We were not able to...

10-Feb-2022

We were not able to make it due to COVID travel restrictions but Shashi did everything in his power to work around our schedule. Modified dates, hotels, flights to make our dream holiday possible. This is a 5 star tour agency, the flexibility, price, transparency, communication and professionalism was one of the best I’ve experienced. We look forward to visiting soon and will be using agora voyages. ...more ...less

Ann Bartram (Google Reviewer)  

Amazing day with the wonderful...

10-Jan-2025

Amazing day with the wonderful Shreesh enriching our experience in so many ways.

Rasik Master (Google Reviewer)  

Service was excellent & awesome....

04-Dec-2022

Service was excellent & awesome. Very reliable, efficient & professional. Exceptional service from Meenakshi & Shashi. Ensured our trip was trouble-free. Most highly recommended. Will use again

Ellison Bentley (Google Reviewer)  

Shashi helped us so much...

31-Dec-2023

Shashi helped us so much to plan a tours for a wide variety of family members-excellent service! We did 3 trips with him and they were all great. Mandu was the best-an amazing castle- a great guide who pointed out all advances they had like filtered water and saunas. We also went to Ujjain and Maheshwar which were also great. Cannot recommend enough! ...more ...less

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Agora Voyages allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 30 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Agora Voyages allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform agora voyages, 30 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Agora Voyages requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 15 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of agora voyages charges.

    Up to 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

  • Standard Operating Protocol issued by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, GOI

    Face masks provided for travelers.Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff.Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized.Regular temperature checks for staff.Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons.Gear/equipment sanitized between use.

Sculpted Wonders of the South

11 Days Starting in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India and ending in Goa, India

Visiting: Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hassan, Hampi, Badami, Goa

Tour operator:

Agora Voyages

Tour code:

AGORA30

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

0-99

Special diets catered:

JainVegetarians, Halal

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $1864 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 08-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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