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Deccan Tour

  • Bangalore – Mysore – Somnathpur – Hassan – Belur – Halebid – Hospet – Hampi – Badami – Aihole – Pattadakal – Hubli – Bangalore
  • 0 booked
  • Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
  • Language: English / Hindi
  • Tour type: Theme Experiences
  • Transport: Road Transfers & Flight (Hubli to Bangalore)
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: 11 Breakfasts, 0 Lunches, 0 Dinners
  • Group size: 1 to 39 people

Hightlight tour

Cultura sur
Rich Cultural Activities
Comida sur
Cuisine
Cultura sur
Rich Cultural Activities
Comida sur768
Cuisine

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Welcome to Bangalore

Your incredible journey commences with your arrival at Bangalore’s International Airport. After completing customs, immigration formalities, and collecting your luggage, our dedicated representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon, visit the exquisite Lal Bagh, a vast 240-acre garden adorned with a profusion of flowers and an exceptional collection of tropical and subtropical plants. Take a leisurely drive through Bangalore’s important and renowned landmarks. The evening is yours to savor. Enjoy a delightful overnight stay at the hotel.

2

Day 2: Bangalore to Mysore - A Royal Sojourn

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Mysore, covering approximately 140 kilometers in around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Mysore Palace, a sight of unparalleled grandeur. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the palace beautifully illuminated on Sundays and special occasions. The interior of the palace is equally captivating, featuring expansive halls known as Mantaps, exquisite paintings, and remarkable architectural splendour. This palace is an exquisite blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture, representing a harmonious fusion of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Later, visit the vibrant Flower Market before retiring for the night at your hotel.

3

Day 3: Mysore to Somnathpur and Back

Following a satisfying breakfast, drive to the enchanting village of Somnathpur, situated about 40 kilometers away, which takes approximately an hour to reach. Here, you’ll visit the splendid Kesava temple, renowned as one of the most exquisite Hoysala temples in Karnataka, just like the famous temples at Belur and Halebid. After the visit, return to your hotel in Mysore, where you’ll check in and enjoy a restful overnight stay.

4

Day 4: Mysore to Hassan - Jain Pilgrimage

In the morning, after breakfast, check out and proceed to Hassan, which is approximately 115 kilometers away and takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes. En route, you’ll visit the renowned Jain pilgrimage center, Shravanabelagola. This small and peaceful town, nestled around the Chandragiri and Vindhyagiri hills in the Hassan district of Karnataka, is a significant Jain pilgrimage site. The town is most famous for its colossal 57-foot tall statue of Bahubali Gomateshwara. After your visit, continue to your hotel for check-in and a relaxing evening. You’ll spend the night at the hotel.

5

Day 5: Hassan to Belur and Halebid

After a satisfying breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Belur and Halebid, which are situated around 40 kilometers away, taking approximately 1 hour to reach. Halebid, previously known as Dwarasamudra, is often referred to as the “Gem of Indian Architecture.” It was once the capital of the Hoysala Empire after Belur. Halebid is celebrated for the remnants of the glorious Hoysala period and boasts some of the finest Hoysala temples. Explore the Shiva Temples, Hoysaleshwara Temple, and Nandi Mandapa. In Belur, known for its magnificent Hoysala Temple Complex, it took 103 years to complete. The temple’s facade is adorned with intricate sculptures and friezes, leaving no portion blank. Explore the Veeranarayana temple, which houses shrines dedicated to Kappe Chenniga, Andal, Saumya Nayaki, and other deities. After your enriching day, enjoy a comfortable night at the hotel.

6

Day 6: Hassan to Hospet - The Splendors of Hampi

Following breakfast, proceed to Hospet, located around 300 kilometers away, with an approximate travel time of 5 hours and 30 minutes. Hospet, a World Heritage Center, is home to the most beautiful and evocative ruins in Karnataka. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagar Kingdom, filled with delightful surprises. You’ll discover the Kings Balance, where kings were weighed against grain, gold, or money, which was then distributed to the poor. Other fascinating attractions include the Queen’s Bath, with its arched corridors and projecting balconies, the exquisite Lotus Mahal, the Vittala Temple with its musical pillars, and the Stone Chariot. The Virupaksha Temple, still used for worship, Ugra Narasimha, a towering 6.7-meter monolith, the Pushkarini Tank, and the Mahanavami Dibba are all equally captivating. Upon your arrival in Hospet, check in to your hotel, and in the evening, set out for a captivating tour of Hampi, one of the most beautiful and evocative ruin sites in Karnataka. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel in Hospet.

7

Day 7: Exploring the Mystical Ruins of Hampi

After a satisfying breakfast, you’ll enjoy a full day dedicated to exploring the wonders of Hampi, covering an approximate distance of 300 kilometers. In the evening, return to Hospet and unwind with a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.

8

Day 8: Hospet to Badami - A Historical Journey

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast and check out of your hotel. Your journey continues with a drive to Badami, which is approximately 140 kilometers away and takes about 3 hours. Badami is located at the mouth of a ravine between two rocky hills, offering picturesque surroundings. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the renowned Cave Temples before retiring for the night.

9

Day 9: Unveiling Architectural Marvels in Aihole and Pattadakal

Start your day with a delightful breakfast and set out to explore the treasures of Aihole and Pattadakal. Aihole holds the esteemed title of being the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture,” boasting over 125 temples, each intricately carved and brimming with intricate details. Among the notable ones, don’t miss the Lad Khan Temple, Drug (fort) Temple, Raval Phadi Cave Temple, Konti Temple Complex, and Jain Meguti Temple. After an enriching day of exploration, return to your comfortable abode in Badami for a restful overnight stay.

10

Day 10: A Deeper Dive into the Charms of Badami

Following a delicious breakfast, the day is yours to revisit the enchanting sites of Badami as your heart desires. Enjoy another night of relaxation and comfort at your hotel in Badami.

11

Day 11: From Badami to Bangalore via Hubli

It’s time to bid adieu to the captivating landscapes as you embark on a journey from Badami. A sumptuous breakfast will energize you for the trip. You’ll make your way to the Hubli airport, covering approximately 145 kilometers in a leisurely 3-hour drive. At Hubli, you’ll board a flight to return to Bangalore. Upon your arrival at the Bangalore Airport, our team will ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy your final night’s stay at the hotel in Bangalore.

12

Day 12: Farewell to India from Bangalore

Your journey through the wonders of India concludes today. Start your day with a nourishing breakfast at the hotel. In a timely fashion, we will arrange your transfer from the hotel to the airport, ensuring you reach your onward international destination with cherished memories of your incredible adventure.

This 12-day Deccan Tour offers an immersive journey through the historical heartlands of Karnataka. From the bustling garden city of Bangalore to the ancient ruins of the Vijayanagar and Hoysala empires, this itinerary is a captivating blend of royal heritage, architectural brilliance, and spiritual depth.

  • Explore spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the evocative ruins of Hampi, the monumental cave temples of Badami, and the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture” in Aihole and Pattadakal.
  • Experience the sheer grandeur of the magnificent Mysore Palace, witness the colossal statue of Bahubali in the Jain pilgrimage town of Shravanabelagola, and marvel at the intricate, star-shaped temples of Belur, Halebid, and Somnathpur.
  • Enjoy a thoughtfully paced itinerary that combines scenic road trips across the Deccan Plateau with a convenient domestic flight, daily breakfasts, and comfortable overnight stays in historic destinations.


 

Price includes

  • A guided tour of important places
  • A two-person English-speaking Travel Director and Driver team with you for the duration of your journey 
  • Beautifully illustrated souvenir map
  • Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
  • Entrance tickets to monuments and museums mentioned on the itinerary
  • Sightseeing and activities as described in your itinerary 
  • All accommodations – First class or best available hotels in the area based on the hotel price category booked
  • Breakfast daily and some evening meals as described in your trip itinerary.
  • Meals, unless expressly states
  • Observation and participation in allowed activities
  • Professionally guided tour
  • Arrival and Departure Airport transfers
  • Transport to and from hotel listed on itinerary
  • Bottled water

 


 

Price does not include

  • All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes
  • Departure Taxes
  • Visa processing arrangements
  • Extra pre and / or post hotel nights for before and after your trip. These can be booked through Lotus of India and or your Travel Agent and be added during the booking process.
  • Handling fees
  • Excess baggage charge
  • Increases in airfares or Government imposed taxes
  • International Air, unless expressly paid for
  • Medical Travel  insurance and emergency insurance
  • Visas and Travel Insurance.
  • Other International and domestic flights not mentioned on the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Porterage for a maximum of two bags per person.
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities.
  • Services not specifically stated in the itinerary.
  • Tips to guide and driver.
  • Optional Experiences. Optional Experiences are additional add-on experiences unique to the destination that are booked and paid for (credit card or cash) when you are on your tour. As Optional Experiences are pre-bookable, this allows you the flexibility to pick and choose what you feel like when you’re on your trip.
  • Any taxi fares or personal spending money including for non-included items, meals.

 


 

Level of Physical fitness required for the Lotus of India tour?

  • A moderate amount of walking is involved at both attractions.
  •  Check recommended level for travelers with back problems or any other issues.
  • Check the dress codes for proper vestments for religious sites or county customs.
  •    Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and hiking or tennis shoes.

 


 

Guidelines for Different Religious Sites

Typical Dress Code for Churches and Cathedrals

  • Churches, particularly in Europe, often require covered shoulders and knees. Bringing a scarf or shawl can be handy if you need to cover up quickly.

Dress Codes in Mosques

  • Mosques typically require women to cover their hair with a scarf or hijab and both men and women to wear long pants or skirts. Some mosques provide appropriate attire at the entrance.
  • Typical Dress Code for Temples and Shrines.
  • In Hindu and Buddhist temples, it is respectful to wear long sleeves and long skirts or pants. Removing shoes is often mandatory, and wearing socks might be required in some places.

Tips for Respectful Attire

  • Removing Hats or Headwear
  • While head coverings may be required in some religious sites, hats and caps are generally considered disrespectful and should be removed before entering.

Layering for Comfort and Respect

  • Bringing a lightweight layer, like a cardigan or shawl, allows you to adapt your outfit as needed. This is especially useful when transitioning from a hot climate outside to a cool interior within religious buildings.

Understanding Local Customs

  • Researching or asking about local customs before visiting can prevent unintentional disrespect. Each religious site may have unique expectations regarding dress code.

 


 

Additional Information

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking and payment
  • Tours can be customized, by request with a multi-lingual guides option: (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German and Portuguese).
  • Daily Tours departures times will be announced by your guide a day prior to the tour date.
  • The tour starts times ranges based on the activity booked.
  • Waiver will need to be signed attesting to good health conditions

 

Cancellation and Refunds Policies

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours after booking payment.
  • In the event of cancellation, Traveler should notify Lotus of India in writing at – least 60 days prior to travel.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made after paid booking before the experience’s start date / time will be subject to modification fees.
  • If the experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers ( 2 ). If it’s canceled because the minimum wasn’t met, you’ll be offered options and recalculated prices.
  • A cancellation fee will be charged by Lotus of India for all cancelled bookings, as per the following cancellation terms.

Land Portions Refund Datelines:  ( Hotels, Tours services, Sightseeing tours )

Number of days prior to Departure Cost of Cancellation (Minimum Cancellation after booking)
120 days or more 15% of the total tour cost
119 to 60 days 25% of the total tour cost
59 to 30 days 50% of the total tour cost
Below 30 days 100% of the total tour cost

 

Map

Frequently Asked Questions - Deposits, Payments & Customers:
  • Foreign travelers often worry about physical strain, especially seniors and couples. Physical comfort is managed proactively rather than reactively. Private tours control walking distances. Vehicles drop travelers close to sites, and visits are planned during less crowded hours.

  • Food concerns are extremely common. Travelers worry about hygiene, food spice levels, and digestive issues. Private tours ensure meals are taken in reputable restaurants and hotels where hygiene standards are controlled. Spice levels are adjusted, and dietary needs are respected. Most food-related problems occur when travelers eat randomly or without guidance.

  • Travel anxiety often peaks around “what if” scenarios. Delays, illness, missed connections, or fatigue worry travelers before booking. Private tours include contingency handling. Drivers, guides and operators respond immediately to changes without traveler involvement. This safety net is one of the strongest reasons foreign travelers choose private tours.

  • Fear of rushed itineraries is common, especially among travelers who have seen aggressive group tour schedules. Private tours are paced according to traveler energy, not preset checklists. Days are balanced, and sightseeing is spread logically. Foreign travelers often say they see less but understand more, which improves satisfaction.

  • India requires more planning than many destinations because of its scale and diversity. Foreign travelers often underestimate travel times, climate differences, and regional variations. Private tour planning absorbs this complexity. Routes are optimized, rest is built in, and seasonal factors are considered. Good planning reduces surprises, which is essential for confidence.

  • There is a misconception that private tours are only for ultra-luxury travelers. Private tours exist across comfort levels. The defining feature is personalization, not price. Even mid-range private tours offer better control and ease than budget independent travel. Luxury private tours simply enhance comfort further through premium hotels and experiences. Foreign travelers choose private tours not to show wealth, but to avoid friction.

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