Serenity & Sovereignty: Forts, Temples, and Backwaters Expedition

Serenity & Sovereignty: Forts, Temples, and Backwaters Expedition

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15 Days From

$3432

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the Serenity & Sovereignty expedition, a captivating journey that seamlessly blends the grandeur of ancient forts, the spiritual allure of temples, and the tranquil charm of backwaters. This meticulously curated itinerary invites you to explore the regal retreats of historic forts, marvel at the intricate architecture of sacred temples, and surrender to the peaceful embrace of Kerala's enchanting backwaters. From the majestic palaces of Hyderabad to the rock-cut wonders of Badami and the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, each day unfolds a tapestry of cultural richness and natural beauty. Join us on this odyssey where serenity meets sovereignty in a symphony of history, spirituality, and blissful landscapes. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Arrive in Hyderabad, transfer to the hotel, and relax before an overnight stay.

  • Explore Hyderabad’s historic sites, including Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Laad Bazaar.

  • Travel to Gulbarga via Bidar, visiting Bidar Fort and Bahmani Tombs.

  • Visit Bijapur’s architectural marvels, including Gol Gumbaz and Ibrahim Rouza, before heading to Badami.

  • Discover Badami, Pattadakkal, and Aihole’s Chalukyan temples, then continue to Hampi for a city tour.

Places You'll See

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Fort Palaces, Temple & Backwater

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive Hyderabad

Location: Hyderabad

On arrival at Hyderabad airport, our representative will meet you for a seamless transfer to the hotel. Check-in and relax. Overnight stay in Hyderabad.

Day 2 : Hyderabad City Tour

Location: Hyderabad

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore the rich heritage of Hyderabad, visiting iconic landmarks like Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Golconda Fort, and the Qutub Shahi Tombs. Stroll through the vibrant Laad Bazaar for shopping. Overnight in Hyderabad.

Day 3 : Hyderabad – Bidar - Gulbarga (260Kms/5Hrs)

Location: Bidar, Gulbarga

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, drive to Gulbarga via Bidar. Explore Bidar's historic fort, Bahmani Tombs, and Bidar Fort. Continue to Gulbarga, check-in, and overnight stay.

Day 4 : Gulbarga - Bijapur (170Kms/3Hrs)

Location: Gulbarga, Vijayapura

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit Gulburga Fort and Jama Masjid. Later, drive to Bijapur. Explore Bijapur's architectural wonders, including Gol Gumbaz, Ibrahim Rouza, and Jod Gumbaz. Overnight in Bijapur.

Day 5 : Bijapur - Badami (120Kms/3Hrs)

Location: Vijayapura, Badami

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning exploration of Bijapur followed by a scenic drive to Badami. Visit the Badami Caves, Badami Fort, and the Open Air Museum. Overnight stay in Badami.

Day 6 : Badami - Pattadakkal - Aihole

Location: Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole

Meals Included: Breakfast

Discover the architectural marvels of Badami, Pattadakkal, and Aihole. Explore Badami's cave temples, then proceed to Pattadakkal and Aihole, known for their Chalukyan architecture. Return to Badami for an overnight stay.

Day 7 : Badami - Gadag - Lakkundi - Hampi (180Kms/4Hrs)

Location: Gadag, Lakkundi, Hampi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive to Hampi, en route explore the temples of Gadag and Lakkundi. Visit Trikuteshwara Temple and marvel at the intricate carvings. Continue to Hampi, check-in, and relax. Overnight stay in Hampi.

Day 8 : Hampi City Tour

Location: Hampi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a comprehensive tour of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, and more. Enjoy the unique landscape and historical charm. Overnight in Hampi.

Day 9 : Hampi – Hubli (170Kms/4Hrs) / Hubli - Cochin (Flight)

Location: New Hubli, Kochi (Cochin)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to Hubli airport for a flight to Cochin. On arrival, experience the vibrant Kathakali Dance. Overnight stay in Cochin.

Day 10 : Cochin - Munnar (140Kms/4Hrs)

Location: Kochi (Cochin), Munnar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Cochin's attractions, including Fort Cochin, St. Frances Church, Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry Palace. Later, drive to Munnar, surrounded by tea estates and hills. Check-in and relax. Overnight in Munnar.

Day 11 : Munnar Exploration

Location: Munnar

Visit Pothamedu for panoramic views, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, and the Indo-Swiss Dairy Farm. Enjoy the serene beauty of Munnar. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Day 12 : Munnar - Thekkady (110Kms/3Hrs)

Location: Ramakkalmedu, Thekkady

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive to Thekkady, with a stop at Ramakkalmedu for scenic views. Visit a spice plantation and explore the vibrant local market. Check-in and unwind. Overnight in Thekkady.

Day 13 : Thekkady - Kumarakom (140Kms/4Hrs)

Location: Thekkady, Kumarakom

Meals Included: Breakfast

Experience a boat safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Later, drive to Kumarakom, known for its backwaters. Check-in at a backwater resort for an overnight stay.

Day 14 : Kumarakom – Alleppey (Houseboat)

Location: Alappuzha

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to the boat jetty for a houseboat journey to Alleppey through enchanting backwaters. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and unique Kerala lifestyle. Overnight on the houseboat.

Day 15 : Alleppey – Cochin (60Kms/1.30Hrs)

Location: Kochi (Cochin)

Disembark from the houseboat after breakfast and drive to Cochin airport for onward departure. Conclude the expedition with wonderful memories.

What's Included

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.

  • 14 Nights' accommodation in 4-Star hotels.

  • Daily breakfast at hotels.

  • Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

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

  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Bottled drinking water in car.

  • Government taxes.

What's Not Included

  • Hubli - Cochin flight fare approx. INR 5,500 per person in economy class.

  • 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 14 nights accommodation
4 Star Hotels
Hyderabad x 2 nights: The Golkonda Hotel/ Lemon Tree Hotel
Gulbarga x 1 night: Kyriad Hotel Gulbarga by OTHPL/ Mastiff Select
Bijapur x 1 night: The Fern Residency/ Kyriad Hotel Vijayapura by OTHPL
Badami x 2 nights: Morpho Banashree Resort/ WADA1
Hampi x 2 nights: Heritage Resort/ Royal Orchid Central Keerti
Cochin x 1 night: Casino Hotel/ Le Maritime
Munnar x 2 nights: Elixir Hills Resort/ Tea County Munnar
Thekkady x 1 night: Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden/ The Elephant Court
Kumarakom x 1 night: Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa/ Rhythm Kumarakom
Alleppey x 1 night: Premium Houseboat (Full Time AC)
...more ...less

Check out our Q&As

  • What currencies are required for this tour?

    INR, USD, EURO, GBP, SGD, JPY, CNY, RMB, CAD,

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    Yes. Please check same on your international ticket

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No. You have to apply for Indian Visa yourself. TOURIST VISA is mandatory for Foreign Nationals to travel India.

  • 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

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

Lynette Cameron  

Bhopal to Aurangabad with Satpura National Park

15-May-2023

We were a group of four Australians who did a 9 day tailored tour from Bhopal to Aurangabad. The whole tour was wonderful in every aspect. Shashi did a great job with every detail. Our driver Imran was excellent and a very careful and safe driver. Hotels, guides, food all excellent. Mind you, the four of us, need to go on a diet after all the delicious buffet meals. Satpura National Park was outstanding for wildlife, guide, food. The Ellora and Ajanta caves spectacular, as was Sanchi, Bhimbetka Rock Shelter. We enjoyed every aspect of our tour and would highly recommend Agora Voyages OPC Pvt Ltd. ...more ...less

Australia

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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.

Serenity & Sovereignty: Forts, Temples, and Backwaters Expedition

15 Days Starting in Hyderabad, Telangana, India and ending in Kochi, Kerala, India

Visiting: Hyderabad, Bidar, Gulbarga, Vijayapura, Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole, Gadag, Lakkundi, Hampi, New Hubli, Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, Ramakkalmedu, Thekkady, Kumarakom, Alappuzha ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Agora Voyages

Tour code:

AGORA361

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

Low, EASY

Age range:

0-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Kosher, Jain, Halal

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $3432 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 01-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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