Imperial Karnataka Journey

Upcoming Date : Available on request

Overview

Step into a landscape where great empires rose, artistic traditions flourished, and some of India’s most remarkable architectural achievements continue to stand the test of time. This immersive journey through Karnataka traces the legacy of powerful dynasties and visionary craftsmen, from the exquisite Hoysala masterpieces of Belur and Halebidu to the pioneering temple complexes of Aihole and Pattadakal, where the Early Chalukyas laid the foundations of Indian temple architecture.

The narrative continues in Hampi, the extraordinary capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, where monumental temples, royal precincts, and a surreal boulder-strewn landscape bear witness to one of the greatest imperial cities of medieval India. Complementing these remarkable heritage experiences is a stay amidst the coffee-clad hills of Chikmagaluru, the birthplace of Indian coffee, where misty plantations, quiet estate trails, and an enduring planter culture offer a refreshing counterpoint to the grandeur of the region’s historic monuments.

Designed for the discerning traveller, this journey is not merely a tour of celebrated landmarks, but an exploration of Karnataka’s intellectual, artistic, and cultural evolution, revealed through its temples, landscapes, living traditions, and enduring legacy. A deeply rewarding experience for those who seek depth, authenticity, and a meaningful connection with the places they visit.

Included

  • 14N Hotel accommodation with breakfast
  • Arrival and departure airport transfers, along with all sightseeing and intercity transfers as outlined in the itinerary
  • Transportation in a comfortable private vehicle with an experienced driver. All fuel charges, driver allowance, toll taxes, parking fees, and applicable state permits.
  • All sightseeing visits and transfers as detailed in the itinerary

Excluded

  • ❌Flight / Train tickets ( can be arranged on request)
  • ❌End-to-End Travel Assistance ( can be arranged on request )
  • ❌Entry Tickets to Monuments and Heritage Sites
  • ❌Meals not mentioned
  • ❌Personal expenses (shopping, laundry, tips, etc.)
  • ❌Travel insurance
  • ❌Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions is not included.

Itinerary

Overnight Stay: Bengaluru

After breakfast, explore Bengaluru’s blend of royal, colonial, and cultural heritage.

Things to do:

  • Lalbagh Botanical Garden
  • Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
  • Bangalore Palace
  • Cubbon Park
  • Vidhana Soudha (Photo Stop)

Photography Focus

  • Heritage architecture
  • Tree-lined boulevards
  • Palace interiors and exteriors
  • Colonial and contemporary cityscapes

Evening

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Church Street and MG Road before dinner at one of Bengaluru’s celebrated heritage restaurants.

Overnight Stay: Bengaluru

After breakfast, drive to Mysuru, the cultural capital of Karnataka.

Distance: Approx. 145 km | 3–4 hrs

Things to do:

  • Mysore Palace
  • Devaraja Market
  • St. Philomena’s Cathedral

Evening

Explore the city’s vibrant markets and heritage precincts at a relaxed pace.

Overnight Stay: Mysuru

  • After breakfast, drive 84 km (2h) from Mysuru to Shravanabelagola,  climb approximately 600 steps to visit the iconic Bahubali statue and one of India’s most important Jain pilgrimage sites. Continue 50 km (1hr) onward to Hassan for an overnight stay

En Route Visit

  • Vindhyagiri Hill

Explore:

  • The magnificent Gomateshwara Bahubali Statue
  • Ancient Jain monuments
  • Panoramic countryside views

Evening

Continue to Hassan and relax at your hotel.

Overnight Stay: Hassan

Morning

After breakfast, proceed to Belur (1hr) to explore the iconic Chennakesava Temple, a masterpiece of Hoysala craftsmanship celebrated for its remarkable sculptures, detailed carvings, and architectural grandeur.

Spend several hours appreciating the extraordinary Hoysala craftsmanship and intricate temple carvings.

Photography Focus

  • Intricate carvings
  • Temple courtyards
  • Sculpted pillars
  • Golden-hour architecture

Evening

Drive to Chikmagaluru (1hr) and check into a coffee estate resort.

Enjoy a relaxed evening amidst the coffee plantations.

Overnight Stay: Chikmagaluru

  • Morning Visit:
    After breakfast, visit Halebidu Temple Complex and explore the magnificent Hoysaleswara Temple, renowned for its intricate stone carvings, sculpted Nandi shrines, and remarkable examples of Hoysala craftsmanship.

 

  • Afternoon:
    Drive to Chikmagaluru and check in to a coffee estate resort, where the rest of the day can be spent relaxing amidst the scenic coffee plantations and rolling hills.

Overnight Stay: Chikmagaluru

A relaxed day dedicated to experiencing the coffee culture that made Chikmagaluru famous.

Experiences

  • Guided plantation walk with a naturalist
  • Learn about Arabica and Robusta cultivation
  • Coffee harvesting and processing insights (season permitting)
  • Estate photography
  • Traditional planter’s bungalow experience
  • Curated coffee tasting session

Evening

Sunset amidst rolling coffee estates.

Photography Focus

  • Plantation landscapes
  • Coffee berries and leaves
  • Estate workers
  • Misty countryside scenes

Overnight Stay: Chikmagaluru

Morning Excursion

  • After breakfast, proceed to Baba Budangiri, a scenic mountain range known for its spiritual significance, rolling grasslands, and spectacular views of the Western Ghats. Continue to Manikyadhara Falls and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and panoramic mountain viewpoints that make this region one of Karnataka’s most picturesque destinations.

(OPTIONAL) Continue drive to Mullayanagiri (1,930 m), Karnataka’s highest peak, and climb approximately 250–300 steps to enjoy spectacular Western Ghats panoramas.

Evening

  • Return to your resort and spend the evening at leisure amidst the tranquil coffee plantations, soaking in the serene beauty of Chikmagaluru’s countryside.

Overnight Stay: Chikmagaluru

Morning

  • After breakfast, depart from Chikmagaluru and enjoy a scenic drive through the heart of Karnataka, passing through picturesque countryside, traditional villages, and ever-changing landscapes en route to Hampi.
  • Distance: Approx. 315 km | 6–7 hrs

Evening

  • Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and unwind. Later, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Tungabhadra River or explore the charming lanes of Hampi Village, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage destination.

Overnight Stay: Hampi

Morning

  • After breakfast, visit Virupaksha Temple, the oldest functioning temple in Hampi and one of the most revered monuments of the Vijayanagara Empire, renowned for its towering gopuram, intricate carvings, and sacred atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • Continue exploring the historic Hampi Bazaar and the fascinating riverside ruins, where ancient mandapas, stone pavilions, and remnants of a once-thriving imperial city offer a glimpse into Hampi’s glorious past.

Sunset

  • Conclude the day at Hemakuta Hill, a spectacular vantage point to witness the sun setting over the boulder-strewn landscape, temples, and ruins of Hampi.

Overnight Stay: Hampi

Morning

  • After breakfast, visit Vittala Temple, the architectural jewel of Hampi, renowned for its magnificent stone craftsmanship and iconic Stone Chariot, one of the most celebrated symbols of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Afternoon

Continue to the Royal Enclosure to explore Lotus Mahal, an elegant Indo-Islamic structure known for its graceful arches, followed by the impressive Elephant Stables, once used to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara kings.

Evening

  • Spend a leisurely evening along the banks of the Tungabhadra River, capturing the tranquil riverside landscapes, ancient ruins, and the warm hues of sunset that lend Hampi its timeless charm.

Overnight Stay: Hampi

Morning

  • After breakfast, depart from Hampi and drive to Badami, enjoying a scenic journey through the rugged landscapes and historic heartland of northern Karnataka.
  • Distance: Approx. 140 km | 3 hrs

Evening

  • Upon arrival, visit Agastya Lake and admire the breathtaking sandstone cliffs, ancient temples, and cave shrines that surround its tranquil waters. As the day draws to a close, witness a spectacular sunset casting golden hues across Badami’s dramatic red-rock landscape.

Overnight Stay: Badami

Morning

  • After breakfast, explore the remarkable Badami Cave Temples, renowned for their exquisite rock-cut architecture and intricate carvings dating back to the Chalukyan era. Continue to the picturesque Bhutanatha Temple and Agastya Lake, where ancient temples and dramatic sandstone cliffs create a truly captivating setting.

Afternoon

  • Return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at leisure, taking in the serene surroundings or simply unwinding amidst the timeless charm of Badami.

Overnight Stay: Badami 

Morning

  • After breakfast, set out to explore the remarkable temple complexes of Aihole Temple Complex and Pattadakal Group of Monuments. Often regarded as the cradle of Indian temple architecture, Aihole showcases the early evolution of temple design, while Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its magnificent blend of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles and beautifully preserved monuments dating back to the Chalukyan era.

Evening

  • Return to Badami and enjoy the evening at leisure, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this historic town.

Overnight Stay: Badami

Morning

  • After breakfast, revisit Aihole for a dedicated photography session, taking advantage of the soft morning light to capture the intricate temple architecture, sculptural details, and timeless beauty of this historic site. Known as the cradle of Indian temple architecture, Aihole offers endless opportunities for architectural and cultural photography.

Departure

  • Later, begin your drive towards Hubballi Airport for your onward journey, bringing to a close an unforgettable exploration of Karnataka’s rich heritage, landscapes, and architectural treasures.
  • Distance: Approx. 148 km | 3 hrs 25mins

⁠Special Tips

  • Make the most of December’s golden light – Clear skies and pleasant weather make early mornings and late afternoons ideal for photography across temples, heritage sites, and coffee plantations.
  • Carry comfortable walking shoes – Several sites, particularly Shravanabelagola, Hampi, Badami, and Pattadakal, involve moderate walking on uneven stone pathways and historic terrain.
  • Pack warm layers for the mornings and evenings – Chikmagaluru’s coffee estates can be crisp and misty in December, especially during sunrise and after sunset.
  • Embrace a slower pace of travel – This journey has been thoughtfully designed to allow time for observation, photography, and a deeper appreciation of Karnataka’s architectural and cultural heritage.
  • Keep your camera within easy reach – From mist-covered coffee plantations and intricate temple carvings to the dramatic landscapes of Hampi and Badami, memorable photographic moments await throughout the journey.
  • Stay hydrated and protected from the sun – While December temperatures are comfortable, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are recommended for extended explorations.
  • Plan your visits around monument timings – Most archaeological and heritage sites are generally open from sunrise to sunset; early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light and fewer crowds for photography.Timings (usually 8AM – 5PM) .

Cancellation Policy

1.1 Booking Confirmation 

Your booking will be confirmed only upon receipt of full payment or 50% advance of the total trip cost, followed by a written confirmation from our side. Once confirmed, the booking will be subject to this policy.

1.2 Advance Payment / Deposit

A non-refundable advance payment (as specified in the quotation/confirmation) is required to confirm and secure your booking. This advance amount is non-refundable in case of cancellation by you, irrespective of the time of cancellation. The deposit helps us block seats, make supplier commitments, and plan the tour.

1.3 Cancellation & Rescheduling

-If a rescheduling date request comes within 30 days from the trip date, the booking amount can neither be adjusted to your next date nor refunded.

-If a rescheduling date request comes prior to 30 days, it can be done without any cancellation charges in the case of domestic trips.

1.4 Customer Cancellation Charges

Time Before Departure Cancellation Charges
More than 45 days 10% of total booking amount
30–45 days 25% of total booking amount
15–29 days 50% of total booking amount
7–14 days 75% of total booking amount
Less than 7 days / No-show 100% of total booking amount

– All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email or the booking portal.

 Non-Refundable Items (under any circumstances): 

  – Visa processing fees

  – Travel insurance premiums

  – Airline, train, bus, or ferry cancellation penalties

  – Government taxes, surcharges, or permit fees

  – Special requests or add-on services

  – Safari permits

 In the case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain activities may be canceled and in such cases, the operator will try his best to provide an alternate feasible activity. However, no refund will be provided for the same.

– Refunds, when applicable, will be processed within 7–14 business days to the original mode of payment after deducting the applicable charges.

For more details, please click the link below-

Cancellation Policy

Available on request

(incl. GST)

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