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South India Heritage Forts, Palaces and Backwater Cruise Tour

Package price On Request

Product Code : AGORA361

Experience the grandeur of South India with our Heritage Forts, Palaces, and Backwater Cruise Tour. Delve into the rich heritage as you explore majestic forts, historic palaces, and ancient temples. Enjoy a leisurely backwater cruise in Alleppey, taking in the serene beauty of palm-fringed canals and quaint villages. This 15-day journey through Hyderabad, Bijapur, Badami, Hampi, Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey offers a diverse blend of cultural exploration and natural wonders. Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes and architectural marvels that define South India's unique charm.

 

Day 1: Arrival in Hyderabad

Upon your arrival at Cochin airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, you have the rest of the day at your leisure to relax and unwind.

 

Day 2: Hyderabad City Tour

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day city tour of Hyderabad. Begin with a visit to the iconic Golconda Fort, a marvel of architectural and engineering excellence. Explore the historic Qutub Shahi Tombs, a testament to the city's royal heritage.

Continue to the famous Charminar, an Islamic monument and mosque, and take a stroll through the bustling markets of the Old City. You'll visit the Salar Jung Museum, home to an impressive collection of art, antiques, and artifacts, and explore the majestic Chowmahalla Palace, a former residence of the Nizams.

Later in the day, visit the serene Birla Mandir, a stunning temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, and enjoy a scenic drive past the picturesque Hussain Sagar Lake. After a day of exploration, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

 

Day 3: Hyderabad - Gulbarga

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, check-out and commence your journey to Gulbarga. Along the way, you will visit the historical Bidar Fort and the Bahmani Tombs, both showcasing impressive architecture and a rich historical legacy. Upon your arrival in Gulbarga, check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

 

Day 4: Gulbarga - Bijapur (170 km)

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast, followed by a visit to the Gulbarga Fort, a historical site that houses ancient mosques and tombs. Explore the Jama Masjid, Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, and the Tomb of Sufi mystic Khwaja Bande Nawaz.

After your exploration, it's time to hit the road and drive to Bijapur. Upon reaching Bijapur, check in at your hotel and unwind, preparing for more adventures.

 

Day 5: Bijapur - Badami (120 km)

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel and prepare for a day filled with exploration. Begin your day with a visit to the Bijapur Fort, an architectural gem that houses several ancient mosques and tombs. Discover the Jama Masjid, Gol Gumbaz, Asar Mahal, Bara Kaman, Malik-e-Maidan, Mehtar Mahal, and Ibrahims Rouza.

Once you've explored the historical treasures of Bijapur, it's time to drive to Badami. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax for the night.

 

Day 6: Badami

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore the ancient temple towns of Aihole and Pattadakal, each offering a treasure trove of Chalukya dynasty monuments and temples.

Your journey continues as you visit the famous Badami Cave temples, a complex of rock-cut cave temples showcasing stunning sculptures. Explore the Badami Fort, an ancient fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and enjoy some peaceful moments by the serene Agastya Lake.

As the day unfolds, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the rich history and remarkable heritage of Badami. Return to your hotel for a well-deserved overnight stay.

 

Day 7: Badami - Hampi (180 km)

After a wholesome breakfast, it's time to depart for Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its spectacular temple complexes and historical monuments from the Vijayanagara Empire. On the way, make a brief stop in Gadag and Lakkundi to explore the fascinating blend of ancient Hindu and Jain temples and medieval architecture.

Upon your arrival in Hampi, check in at the hotel and settle in for the night.

 

Day 8: Hampi

Savor a delicious breakfast before embarking on a full day of exploration in the captivating ruins of Hampi. Begin your journey by visiting the Hazara Rama Temple, known for its intricate sculptures.

Continue your exploration with visits to the Kings Balance, Mahanavami Dibba, Royal enclosures, Statue of Ugra Narasimha Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Vithala Temple Complex, Lotus Mahal, and ASI Museum. Hampi's rich history and archaeological wonders await your discovery.

As the day comes to a close, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

 

Day 9: Hampi - Cochin (Flight)

After a nourishing breakfast, you'll be transferred to the Hubli airport to catch a flight to Cochin. Upon your arrival in Cochin, check in at your hotel and prepare to explore the vibrant city.

 

Day 10: Cochin - Munnar (140 km)

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful seaside area of Fort Cochin, known for its colonial architecture and the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. Explore St. Francis Church, the Jewish Synagogue, and the Mattancherry Dutch Palace. Later, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station famous for its lush tea plantations.

Upon reaching Munnar, check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

 

Day 11: Munnar

Delight in a day of Munnar's most spectacular sights and experiences. Venture to the tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations in Pothamedu and immerse yourself in the lush greenery.

Visit the Mattupetty Dam and Reservoir, a vital water storage facility and hydroelectric project. Then, take a journey to the Rajamala hill station within Eravikulam National Park to witness the Nilgiri tahr, a rare mountain goat. Continue your day with a visit to Mattupedi Dairy Farm, Echo Point, and the mesmerizing Tea Museum, where you'll learn about the tea-making process and indulge in a tea tasting session.

Wrap up your day with a serene evening at the hotel.

 

Day 12: Munnar - Thekkady (110 km)

After a delicious breakfast, set off for Thekkady, a charming town located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Along the way, you'll pass through Ramakkalmedu, a breezy location featuring a wind farm that generates electricity.

During the drive, you'll have the opportunity to witness the unique Frog Rock, Turtle Rock, and the Kuravan & Kurathi twin-statue, all of which make for unique photo opportunities. In the evening, you'll be treated to a captivating Martial Arts & Kathakali Dance performance, a traditional art form of Kerala that tells stories through dance and music. The performance is sure to leave a lasting impression.

As the day comes to an end, return to your hotel in Thekkady for a restful night.

 

Day 13: Thekkady - Kumarakom (140 km)

Kickstart your day with a thrilling boat safari on Periyar Lake, located within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Keep an eye out for various wildlife species, including elephants, bison, deer, and a plethora of birdlife. It's a wildlife enthusiast's dream come true.

Following the boat safari, embark on a guided tour of a spice plantation, where you'll gain insights into the cultivation and processing of aromatic spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. Immerse yourself in the fragrant aromas of the spice garden before returning to your hotel for the night.

 

Day 14: Kumarakom - Alleppey

After a wholesome breakfast, make your way to the Alleppey boat jetty, where you'll board a traditional houseboat for a leisurely cruise through the backwaters of Kerala. As you drift along, enjoy the serene surroundings, characterized by palm-fringed narrow canals, paddy fields, and quaint villages. Feast on a delicious Kerala-style lunch served on the houseboat and soak in the enchanting views.

Witness the unique phenomenon of farming below sea level, an exclusive aspect of this region. Immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals and appreciate the beauty of this remarkable landscape. Spend the night on the houseboat, where you can relish a tranquil experience and savor the sunset from the sun-deck.

 

Day 15: Alleppey - Cochin (60 km)

Start your day with a pleasant breakfast on the houseboat before disembarking and heading to Cochin for your onward journey. If time permits, explore the city and visit popular attractions such as Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, and the Jewish Synagogue. Depart for your next destination with fond memories of your memorable Kerala journey.

This comprehensive 15-day tour encompasses the rich heritage of Hyderabad, the historical treasures of Bijapur and Badami, the stunning architecture of Hampi, the tranquil tea plantations of Munnar, the abundant wildlife of Thekkady, and the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Each destination offers a unique experience, providing a well-rounded exploration of South India's diverse culture and natural beauty.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 14 Nights' accommodation in selected price category 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.

 

Hotels used or similar for 14 night accommodation

Hyderabad x 2 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha 
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel

Gulbarga  x 1 nights
3*/4*/5* - Hotel Heritage Inn

Bijapur  x 1 nights
3*/4*/5* - Sun Hotel/ Hotel Mayura Adilshahi

Badami x 2 nights
3* - Krishna Heritage/ The Heritage Resort
4*/5* - Badami Court/ Krishna Heritage

Hospet/ Hampi x 2 nights
3* - Krishna Palace/ Kishkinda Heritage Resort
4* - Heritage Resort/ Malligi Hotel
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders

Cochin x 1 nights
3* - The Dune Hotel/ Abad Plaza
4* - Casino Hotel/ The Avenue Regent
5* - Xandari Harbour/ Le Meridien

Munnar x 2 nights
3* - Fort Munnar/ Abad Copper Castle
4* - Nature Zone Jungle Resort/ Fragrant Nature Munnar
5* - Chandys Windy Woods/ Tea County

Thekkady (Thekkady) x 1 nights
3* - Abad Green Forest/ Hotel Treetop
4* - The Elephant Court/ Cardamom County
5* - Spice village/ Cardamom County

Kumarakom x 1 nights
3* - Abad Whispering Palm/ Cocobay Resort
4* - Eastend Lake Song/ Goldfield Lake Resort
5* - Coconut Lagoon/ The Zuri

Alleppey x 1 night
3* - Deluxe Houseboat (ATDC Houseboat/ Dream Boats)
4* - Premium Houseboat (Abad Premium Houseboats/ Rainbow Premium Houseboats)
5* - Luxury Houseboat (Xandari Riverscapes/ Lakes & Lagoons)

- 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.