This 16-day “Essence of Karnataka + GOA” tour perfectly balances the profound historical and spiritual heritage of Southern India with the relaxing coastal vibes of the Arabian Sea. From
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Hightlight tour
Rich Cultural Activities
Cuisine
Sightseeing
Itinerary
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Day 1: Welcome to Bangalore
As you land at Bangalore’s International Airport, a world of adventure awaits you. After swiftly navigating through customs, immigration formalities, and collecting your belongings, our friendly representative will be there to extend a warm welcome. They’ll accompany you to your hotel, where you’ll spend a delightful night.
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Day 2: Bangalore to Mysore – An Enriching Journey
Following a hearty breakfast, your journey takes you to Mysore. But the road to Mysore is paved with treasures. You’ll make a stop at Lal Bagh, a botanical garden of extraordinary beauty. Then, you’ll discover Cubbon Park, Vidhan Sabha, Bangalore Palace, and the historic Tipu Sultan Summer Palace. Later, your path leads to Mysore, approximately 145 kilometers away, where you’ll check in for a cozy overnight stay.
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Day 3: The Majestic Charm of Mysore
Post breakfast, your day in Mysore begins with a visit to the Maharaja’s Palace, a true masterpiece adorned with exquisite carvings and artworks from around the world. As you explore this architectural marvel, you’ll also set your sights on the Chamundi Hills, the Rajendra Art Gallery, and the vibrant fruit market. Rest assured, you’ll experience the essence of Mysore. Enjoy your peaceful overnight stay at the hotel.
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Day 4: Mysore to Hassan – A Journey through History
After breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to set your sights on Hassan. This approximately 125-kilometer journey takes around 4 hours and includes a visit to the famous Shravanabelagola, a significant Jain pilgrimage site. Hassan, deeply influenced by the great Hoysala Empire during the 11th to 13th century AD, is your destination for the night, known for its role in the construction of the magnificent temples of Belur and Halebid. Your comfortable overnight stay awaits.
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Day 5: Belur and Halebid - A Day of Architectural Wonders
Wake up to breakfast and embark on a full-day excursion to the architectural gems of Belur and Halebid. Halebid, often referred to as the Gem of Indian Architecture, offers glimpses of the glorious Hoysala period. It boasts some of the finest Hoysala temples and Shiva Temples, including the Hoysaleshwara Temple, a treasure trove of art and history. Belur, just 38 kilometers from Hassan, is famous for its magnificent Hoysala Temple Complex. The Chennakeshava temple here, completed in 1116 by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana, is a marvel of intricate sculptures. It’s an architectural treasure you shouldn’t miss. Your night will be spent in comfort at the hotel.
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Day 6: Udupi Beach Bliss via Kukke Subramanya and Dharmasthala
After an early breakfast, you’ll drive to Kukke Subramanya, a journey of approximately 60 kilometers, where you’ll visit the temple. Then, you’ll proceed to Dharmasthala, known as the Southern Kashi, located just 30 kilometers away. Here, you’ll visit the Sri Manjunatha Temple. Finally, your journey leads to Udupi, where you’ll check into a beach resort. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and unwind. A serene night awaits by the sea at your beachside retreat.
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Day 7: Exploring Udupi - Temples and Beaches
Following breakfast, you’ll explore Udupi with a visit to the Sri Krishna Temple. The afternoon invites you to enjoy the tranquil beaches and unwind by the sea. Your comfortable night at the beach resort promises tranquility and relaxation.
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Day 8: Udupi to Shimoga via Kollur
After breakfast, it’s time to check out and journey to Kollur, a drive covering approximately 200 kilometers in 4 hours. Here, you’ll visit the Kollur Mookambika Temple. Then, you’ll proceed to Shimoga, where you’ll check in at a hotel, surrounded by nature’s wonders. You’ll enjoy a peaceful overnight stay.
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Day 9: Shimoga to Hospet - A Road to Tranquility
Following breakfast, it’s time to check out and head to Hospet, an approximately 260-kilometer drive taking around 6 hours. Upon your arrival in Hospet, you’ll check in at your hotel and have the day to rest and unwind. Your night promises relaxation and serenity.
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Day 10: Hospet - A Day to Discover the World Heritage of Hampi
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a full-day exploration of the World Heritage Center at Hampi. The day is filled with awe-inspiring sights, including Queen’s Bath with its arched corridors, Lotus Mahal, Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, and the towering Ugra Narasimha monolith. You’ll be immersed in the rich history of Hampi and experience its undeniable charm. Your night is filled with tranquility and a peaceful night’s stay.
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Day 11: Hospet to Badami - A Journey through History
Following breakfast, you’ll set off for Badami, a drive covering approximately 126 kilometers in 4 hours. Upon your arrival, you’ll check in at the hotel. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the intriguing Cave Temples, a glimpse into ancient history. Your night promises a comfortable stay at the hotel.
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Day 12: Aihole and Pattadakal - Temples of Grandeur
After breakfast, you’ll explore Aihole and Pattadakal, two magnificent temple complexes. Aihole, known as the Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture, houses over 125 intricately carved temples, with Lad Khan Temple, Drug Temple, Raval Phadi Cave Temple, Konti Temple Complex, and Jain Meguti Temple standing out as remarkable examples. Pattadakal, a World Heritage center, is home to 10 major temples representing early Chalukyan architecture. You’ll have the chance to visit temples such as Virupaksha, Mallikarjuna, and Panatha. Your night is filled with the echoes of history at the hotel.
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Day 13: Badami to Goa - A Beach Paradise Beckons
Post breakfast, it’s time to set your sights on Goa, a journey of approximately 238 kilometers taking around 5 hours. As you arrive in Goa, you’ll check in at your hotel, where relaxation and delight await. Your first evening in Goa promises the magic of the beach paradise.
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Day 14: Exploring the Wonders of Goa
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before setting out on a sightseeing adventure. Goa is renowned for its splendid beaches and luxurious resorts, but it also boasts a wealth of historical treasures. Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Cathedral Church, and Church of St. Francis of Assissi, Fontainhas, and Dona Paula. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Goa’s rich history and vibrant culture. A comfortable overnight stay at the hotel is in store.
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Day 15: Goa - A Day of Pure Leisure
Embrace a day of unadulterated relaxation in the splendid paradise of Goa. With the whole day at your disposal, you’re free to bask in the sun, engage in beach activities, or simply revel in the local culture. Your night’s serenity awaits at the hotel.
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Day 16: Farewell to Goa, Welcome to Mumbai
Following a hearty breakfast, it’s time to bid adieu to Goa and make your way to Mumbai. We’ll ensure a seamless transfer from your hotel to the Mumbai International Airport for the next leg of your incredible journey.
This 16-day “Essence of Karnataka + GOA” tour perfectly balances the profound historical and spiritual heritage of Southern India with the relaxing coastal vibes of the Arabian Sea. From Bangalore’s bustling streets to Goa’s sun-kissed beaches, this journey showcases the best of the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan Coast.
Explore incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites, wandering through the ancient ruins of Hampi, the awe-inspiring cave temples of Badami, and the intricate Hoysala architecture in Belur, Halebid, and Pattadakal.
Experience a deeply spiritual journey by visiting some of the region’s most revered pilgrimage centers, including Shravanabelagola, Kukke Subramanya, Dharmasthala, Udupi’s Sri Krishna Temple, and the historic churches of Old Goa.
Enjoy diverse landscapes and comfortable stays, transitioning from royal palaces in Mysore and scenic drives through the Western Ghats to relaxing days at beach resorts in Udupi and the tropical paradise of Goa.
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.
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.
Many travelers imagine private tours as rigid luxury packages. Private tours are flexible frameworks.
Each day begins and ends based on traveler comfort. Sightseeing is adjusted in real time. If a site feels crowded or energy is low, plans change without stress.
This adaptability is what foreign travelers value most. They are not following a script; they are being supported.
Safety questions often come from lack of familiarity rather than real risk. Foreign travelers worry about crime, harassment, scams, and medical emergencies.
Private tours significantly reduce exposure to unsafe situations. Drivers manage routes and timing, guides handle interactions, and hotels provide secure environments.
Most foreign travelers report feeling safer in India on private tours than in many other countries they have visited independently.
Language concerns are common, especially for travelers who do not speak any Indian languages. In practice, language is rarely an issue when traveling privately. English is widely spoken by guides, hotel staff and drivers working with international tourists.
For foreign tourists, communication becomes effortless when handled professionally.
Comfort is the first unspoken concern. Foreign travelers are not asking whether India has luxury hotels; they are asking whether daily life between destinations will feel manageable.
India becomes comfortable when travel is structured. Private car travel in India, professional drivers, well-located hotels and guided sightseeing remove most discomfort factors. Without structure, even good hotels cannot compensate for chaotic movement.
Persons arriving from Yellow Fever endemic countries or those who have visited such countries during the past 6 days immediately preceding their entry into India will be required to possess a valid certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination from an authorized vaccination center. Persons arriving from a country having public health risk may be required to undergo medical screening or additional measures as decided by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India.
Minimum six months of validity and two blank pages for the Immigration stamps. Note that the visa validity starts from the issue date.
All foreign visitors need a visa, expect citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. Visa-on-Arrival facility is available to the citizens of Japan, South Korea & UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India). Others can apply online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
Our partners make every effort to accommodate any special needs requests, whether it be a dietary restriction or physical limitations. In order to accommodate your needs as best possible, we ask that you let your Travel Specialist know at the time of booking. You may be asked to fill out a form depending on the type of request.
You may bring one suitcase per person weighing up to 50 lbs. You may also bring one piece of hand luggage provided it is small enough to take on the coach. These details will also be provided in your travel documents. Please note that air carriers may have their own restrictions and requirements including weight. We recommend that you contact the airlines directly for additional information. You can also learn more about checked baggage fees and allowances here.
Traveling solo traveler and prefer the privacy of your own room, a supplement will be applied to the price of your trip. The cost will depend on your trip and is available on request. If you’d rather not incur the additional expense, consider sharing option to avoid the extras. We’ll advice you if some other solo travelers requesting sharing. We will accommodate you with a fellow guest of the same gender, on a twin-bed basis. Please note that room shares are not valid on all trips.
Customization is one of the most asked about aspects. Foreign travelers want reassurance that itineraries are not fixed templates.
Private tours are built around interests, pace, and comfort. Changes can be made before and during the trip. This flexibility builds trust and confidence.
Some travelers worry that private tours might feel artificial or disconnected. The opposite is true. Authenticity comes from understanding, not exposure.
Private tours allow deeper interaction because guides explain context, facilitate conversations and choose meaningful experiences
Planning your first trip to India can raise many questions about safety, visas, transport, and the best places to visit. Our experienced travel specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.
Most major credit cards are widely accepted throughout India. Credit cards and most debit cards can be used for ATM cash withdrawals onshore. We recommend bringing at least one credit card plus an ATM card. Try to avoid carrying euro notes larger than €100, as merchants may be hesitant to accept them due to counterfeiting. Limited currency exchange available at all major hotels have exchange facilities. Travelers Checks are not recommended. It’s always a good idea to let your credit card issuer and bank know of your plans to travel abroad so they can expect foreign transactions on your account.
All tour deposits are non-refundable. However, we do offer deposit protection within our company, which means your tour only base deposit can be used toward a future Lotus of India, Lotus of Asia, or Travelonica, a sister tour brands holiday within the next year ( 12 months ).
If your booking is confirmed you will have received an invoice shortly after booking both for tour deposits, and for tours where you’ve paid in full. Please always check your junk, spam, or promotions folder. If any additions and changes to your booking, including any payments made, we will send you an updated invoice.
You can see your full payment due date in our Payment Terms. Full payment is available at the time of booking.
All payment dates and amounts will appear on your invoice once you’ve booked. Please note, deposit and full payment terms may vary for special offers. Please familiarise yourself with our full Booking Conditions.
Payment process will vary depend on how you booked your tour and there are several ways you can make payments.
You can Contact Us and we’ll send you a one-time secure payment link or take your payment over the phone.
If you booked with a Travel Agent: Contact your Travel Agent to make payments for your tour directly through them.
If you are you are Travel Agent? You can make payments directly through the Travel Agent Portal where you can also view your booked invoices.
We accept the following payment methods: Credit/debit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and PayPal
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