Arts & Treasures Of Karnataka, Goa & Mumbai

After breakfast, depart Bangalore and through a 4 hours drive head to Mysore - the former capital of the state and one of the most historic and culturally diverse cities in Southern India. In the afternoon, visit Chamundi Hill Temple, perched atop a hill offering panoramic city views; explore the majestic Mysore Palace, significant for its Indo-Saracenic architecture; and take a leisurely walk through the vibrant Mysore Flower Market, famous for its sensory burst of colors and scents. Overnight in luxury hotel at Mysore.

After your breakfast get ready for a morning excursion to the Hoysala temple at Somnathpur, a great example of Karnataka’s temple architecture from the 13th century CE, exhibiting intricate carvings set amidst lush lawns and beautiful gardens. Later in the day, return back to Mysore with free time to explore the city in the afternoon. Overnight stay in luxury hotel at Mysore.

Depart Mysore bound for Hassan, with several en-route stops. First, visit Shravanabelagola, a significant Jain pilgrimage center and home to a massive 17-meter monolithic statue of Gomateshwara, believed to be the majestic sculpture in the world. Then proceed to the Hoysala masterpieces of Belur and Halebid, both 12th-century temples celebrated for their intricate soapstone carvings and unique star-shaped platforms. Overnight stay in Hassan.

Karnataka is a large state and some long drives are inevitable — today’s journey to Hospet takes around 7 hours, passing through charming small towns and rural Karnataka landscapes. Due to limited accommodation in Hampi, most travelers stay in Hospet or the nearby village of Anegundi. Overnight stay in Hospet.

The must-visit archaeological site of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best experienced over at least two days. Once the significant capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi currently stands as a surreal town with remnants of ancient temples, stepwells, elephant stables, bazaars, and even palaces scattered across a boulder-strewn landscape. You can explore these areas by auto-rickshaw, bicycle, or on foot. A sunrise view from Matanga Hill or Hemakuta Hill is highly recommended for its magical ambiance. The dry climate of this region has preserved many of its stone structures remarkably well. Two night stay at the best hotel in Hospet or Anegundi.

Drive north towards Badami, with stops to explore the early Chalukya capitals known for their contributions to temple architecture. Badami itself, flourishing between the 4th and 8th centuries CE, is renowned for its rock-cut cave temples carved into sandstone cliffs, featuring intricate sculptures and shrines. Overnight stay in Badami.

Spend a full day exploring this historically rich area — Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal are ideal for on-foot exploration and collectively form the cradle of Chalukyan temple architecture, offering a mix of Dravidian and Nagara styles. These sites are now recognized as part of India’s early architectural marvels. Overnight stay in Badami.

After your breakfast, Head to Goa, India's smallest state, popular for its golden beaches, colonial architecture, and laid-back lifestyle. The Portuguese influence is evident in Old Goa’s churches and city planning. After your arrival, unwind by the pool or take rest at your luxury beachside resort. Overnight stay in Goa luxury beachside resort.

The time you spend in Goa can be customized depending on your interests. In addition to beach leisure, explore Old Goa, a UNESCO site home to 17th-century Baroque churches, visit a spice plantation, or experience local culture in Panaji and the revered Mangueshi Temple. This region blends coastal beauty with rich history, perfect for heritage and wellness travel in 2025. Two more nights in the best hotel in Goa.

After your breakfast get ready to enjoy a full-day excursion to the Ellora Caves, the most significant group of 34 rock-cut shrines carved into a cliff face, representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, dating back from the 5th to 13th centuries CE. These are globally recognized for their scale and craftsmanship. Overnight in Aurangabad.

After your breakfast, explore the spectacular Ajanta Caves, a horseshoe-shaped cluster of 30 Buddhist rock-cut monasteries and prayer halls, adorned with ancient frescoes and carvings. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1819, these caves offer an immersive glimpse into India’s artistic and spiritual past. Later, fly to Mumbai, where you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

On day 16 morning, after having your leisurely breakfast, visit the Elephanta Caves, another magnificent rock-cut cave complex on an island in Mumbai Harbour, featuring grand sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of Mumbai’s colonial buildings, ornate temples, and historic city gardens, offering a snapshot of the city’s vibrant blend of cultures. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

On day 17, you will have free time in Mumbai. You can indulge in a quick shopping or relax before you get transferred to the airport for your onward journey with a heart full of enchanting memories.