The Shore & Cities of Karnataka tour offers an immersive journey through the rich cultural, historical, and natural landscapes of South India. Begin in Mangalore, exploring ancient temples, stunning frescoes, and historic watchtowers, before traveling to Hassan to admire the intricate Hoysala architecture at Belur and Halebidu. Continue to Mysore to experience royal heritage at Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple, and Brindavan Gardens. Explore the modern and historic highlights of Bangalore, including Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore Palace, and Vidhana Soudha. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Hampi with its grand temples, palaces, and bazaars. Conclude with the serene beaches and spiritual sites of Gokarna, enjoying the perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal relaxation.
Shore & Cities of Karnataka
Package price On Request
Product Code : AGORA409
Day 1: Arrive Mangalore
Upon arrival at Mangalore airport, you'll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in and freshening up. Begin your city tour with Mangaladevi Temple, an important pilgrimage site showcasing intricate Dravidian architecture dedicated to the goddess Mangaladevi. Next, explore Kadri Manjunath Temple, an ancient shrine with a serene ambiance and detailed Dravidian-style carvings housing the idol of Lord Manjunatha. Visit St. Aloysius Chapel, renowned for its magnificent frescoes painted by Italian artist Antonio Moscheni, depicting biblical scenes in vivid detail. Conclude your day at Sultan Battery, an 18th-century watchtower built by Tippu Sultan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and reflecting historic military architecture.
Day 2: Mangalore - Hassan (180kms)
After breakfast, drive to Hassan and check in at your hotel before embarking on your sightseeing. Explore the Belur temple complex, beginning with Chennakesava Temple, celebrated for its exquisite Hoysala architecture and detailed carvings depicting mythological stories. Continue to the Halebidu temple complex, including Hoysaleswara Temple, famous for its intricate sculptures and bas-reliefs that highlight the grandeur of 12th-century Hoysala artistry. Discover the Jain bastis in the area, known for their simplicity, fine craftsmanship, and reflections of Jain religious philosophy. Spend the evening soaking in the historic and spiritual aura of these magnificent sites.
Day 3: Hassan - Mysore (140kms)
Post breakfast, drive to Mysore with a stop at Shravanabelagola. Climb Vindhyagiri Hill to witness the colossal monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, a major Jain pilgrimage site offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival in Mysore, check in at your hotel and begin your city tour with the opulent Mysore Palace, featuring Indo-Saracenic architecture and rich interiors of royal heritage. Visit Chamundi Hill to explore Chamundeshwari Temple, an ancient shrine offering breathtaking views of Mysore city. Head to St. Philomena's Cathedral, a neo-gothic masterpiece with stunning stained glass windows, and conclude the day at Brindavan Gardens, enjoying the illuminated musical fountain and lush landscapes.
Day 4: Mysore - Bangalore (150kms)
Drive to Bangalore and check in at your hotel before exploring the city. Begin with Lalbagh Botanical Garden, a sprawling garden showcasing diverse plant species, a historic glasshouse, and tranquil water features. Visit Bangalore Palace, an imposing Tudor-style building reflecting the Wodeyar dynasty's royal history. Explore Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, known for its wooden architecture and historical artifacts. Stroll through Cubbon Park, a peaceful urban oasis with walking paths, flower beds, and colonial-era statues. Admire Vidhana Soudha, the impressive state legislature building, and if time permits, explore Commercial Street or Brigade Road for local shopping and dining experiences.
Day 5: Bangalore - Hampi (330kms)
After breakfast, drive to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient ruins and historical significance. En route, stop at Chitradurga Fort, a massive stone fortification with elaborate walls, gates, and watchtowers offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Arrive in Hampi and check in at your hotel, allowing time to relax and prepare for the next day's exploration of the Vijayanagara Empire's historic sites.
Day 6: Hampi
Begin your day at Virupaksha Temple, an ancient pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its grand architecture and vibrant rituals. Visit Vittala Temple, famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars that produce melodious sounds when tapped. Discover Lotus Mahal, an elegant palace with lotus-shaped arches reflecting Vijayanagara architectural excellence. Explore Hazara Rama Temple, noted for its carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Walk through the Royal Enclosure, including the King’s Audience Hall and Mahanavami Dibba, and conclude at Hampi Bazaar, a historic marketplace with ruins reflecting the ancient commercial life.
Day 7: Hampi - Gokarna (310kms)
After breakfast, drive to the coastal town of Gokarna. En route, stop at Lakkundi to admire ancient temples such as Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Jain temples with exquisite Chalukyan stone carvings. Continue to Gadag, home to historically significant temples including Trikuteshwara and Siddhesvara, showcasing intricate carvings. Arrive in Gokarna and check in at your hotel to relax and enjoy the serene coastal atmosphere.
Day 8: Gokarna
Start your day visiting Mahabaleshwar Temple, an ancient Shiva shrine exuding spirituality and calm. Explore Om Beach, noted for its distinctive Om-shaped shoreline and natural beauty, followed by Half Moon Beach and Paradise Beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and scenic enjoyment. Participate in water activities such as snorkeling or relax on the pristine sands, soaking in the tranquil coastal environment.
Day 9: Gokarna
Spend a leisurely day in Gokarna with opportunities to relax on the beaches, explore local markets, or join yoga and meditation sessions. Opt for a boat ride along the coastline to discover hidden coves, scenic spots, and enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea, experiencing the peaceful charm of this coastal town.
Day 10: Gokarna - Mangalore (230kms)
After breakfast, drive back to Mangalore. En route, visit Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, an important pilgrimage site known for its religious significance and the prasadam served to devotees. Continue to Mangalore, check in at your hotel if required, and proceed to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your enriching journey through Karnataka’s cultural landmarks, historic cities, and scenic coastal beauty.
- Assistance on arrival at airport.
- 9 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 9 nights accommodation
Mangalore x 1 night
3* - Resort River Roost Resorts/ Treebo Trend Pappilon Palace
4* - The Ocean Pearl/ Goldfinch Mangalore
5* - The Gateway Hotel Old Port Rd Mangalore
Hassan x 1 night
3* - Candy Southern Star/ Pavanputra Resort & Spa
4* & 5* - Hosyala Village Resort/ The Ashok
Mysore x 1 night
3* - Southern Star/Sandesh The Prince
4* - Fortune Park JP Palace/ Grand Mercure
5* - Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden/The Windflower Resort & Spa
Bangalore x 1 nights
3* - Ramada/ The Rialto
4* - Fortune Select JP Cosmos/ Lemon Tree Premier Ulsoor Lake
5* - ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection/ ITC Windsor a Luxury Collection
Hampi x 2 nights
3* - Krishna Palace/ Kishkinda Heritage Resort
4* - Heritage Resort / Royal Orchid Central Keerti
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders
Gokarna x 3 nights
3* - Red Earth Gokarna/Arthigamya Resort & Spa
4* - Kudle Beach View Resort & Spa/ Namaste Yoga Farm
5* - SwaSwara/ Kahani Paradise
- 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.