The Karnataka Odyssey
Journey Highlights
Admire one of India’s most astonishing palaces in Mysore
Encounter the wild beauty of Kabini, with thrilling wildlife safaris and serene landscapes along the banks of the Kabini River
Wander through the lush coffee plantations of Chikmagalur
- See the ancient city of Hampi rising like a phoenix from its magnificent ruins
- Marvel at the rich architectural heritage and ancient rock-cut temples of Badami
- Unwind and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Goa
Itinerary
DAY 01
Arrive Bangalore
On arrival in Bangalore, you’ll be met by your Indus Bound Representative and transferred to your hotel, where you’ll be staying for two nights. Spend the remainder of the day recovering from your journey, and perhaps a stroll around the local neighborhood later.
DAY 02
In Bangalore
Spend a full day exploring Bangalore, visiting the lush Lalbagh Botanical Garden, tranquil Cubbon Park, magnificent Bangalore Palace and the historic Nandi Temple.
DAY 03
Drive to Mysore
Drive to Mysore (3–4 hours), visitng Shravanabelagola enroute, Shravanabelagola, home to the magnificent 57-foot monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, is one of Karnataka’s most revered Jain pilgrimage sites. On arrival in Mysore, spend the afternoon at leisure.
DAY 04
In Mysore
Explore Mysore, visiting Chamundi Hill, the grand City Palace and its exquisite architecture. Later, visit the magnificent Hoysala temple at Somnathpur and historic Srirangapatnam, renowned for its connections to Tipu Sultan and the East India Company.
DAY 05
Drive to Kabini
Morning drive to Kabini (01–02 hours), a renowned wildlife haven on the banks of the Kabini River, home to elephants, tigers and a rich variety of birdlife. Later, enjoy a scenic boat ride along the tranquil waters of the river.
DAY 06
In Kabini
Enjoy morning and afternoon safaris in Kabini National Park, where herds of elephants roam freely, langurs chatter in the treetops, and the jungle comes alive with the sights and sounds of the wild.
DAY 07
Drive to Hassan
Leave Kabini this morning and drive to Hassan (3–4 hours), visiting the important Jain pilgrimage site of Shravanabelagola en route. Climb the 700 steps to the hilltop, home to the towering statue of Gommateshwara, before arriving in Hassan and spending the afternoon at leisure.
DAY 08
In Hassan
Today, visit the magnificent temples of Belur and Halebid, built during the 12th and 13th centuries under the Hoysala kings. Admire their exquisite sculptures, intricate carvings and remarkable architecture, with Halebid also known as the former Hoysala capital.
DAY 09
Drive to Chikmagalur
After breakfast, drive to Chikmagalur (1–2 Hrs), a picturesque hill station renowned for its lush coffee plantations and scenic landscapes. Later, enjoy a private guided tour of Coffee Plantation and Coffee Museum.
DAY 10
Drive to Hampi
Today, continue your journey with a drive to Hampi (5–6 hours), home to the atmospheric ruins of the ancient city of Vijayanagar, one of India’s most remarkable historical sites. On arrival, spend the remainder of the day at leisure at your hotel.
DAY 11
In Hampi
Spend a full day exploring the magnificent ruins of Hampi, visiting Hemakuta Hill, the sacred Virupaksha Temple, the elegant Queens Bath, the impressive Elephant Stables, the Royal Enclosure and the intricately carved Hazara Rama Temple.
DAY 12
In Hampi
Continue exploring Hampi today, where wandering leads to fascinating discoveries. Take a coracle across the Tungabhadra River to the hilltop Monkey Temple for spectacular views, or follow sandy trails through fields scattered with carved masonry, ancient colonnades, hidden cave shrines and rock-cut reliefs.
DAY 13
Drive to Badami
Leave Hampi and drive north through Karnataka to Badami (3–4 hours), the former Chalukyan capital, renowned for its Hindu and Jain cave temples carved into sandstone cliffs. Later, visit the Badami Caves, UNESCO-listed Pattadakal and Aihole, regarded as the birthplace of Indian temple architecture.
DAY 14
Drive to Goa
Today, enjoy a scenic drive to Goa (6–7 hours), where you’ll spend two relaxing nights. You may also choose to extend your stay and enjoy additional leisure time on Goa’s beautiful beaches.
DAY 15
In Goa
Spend a full day exploring Goa, beginning with a lively market walk before heading to the atmospheric Old Town. Admire the region’s distinctive heritage and architecture, shaped by centuries of Dutch and Portuguese influence.
DAY 16
Departure
At the appropriate time, transfer to Goa International Airport for your flight back home, or continue your onward journey with us.
Enquiry
Starting from USD 1980 Per Person*
* lean season and based on comfortable hotels
Price is based on double occupancy and is subject to change depending on the hotels selected and travel dates.
Your tour includes daily breakfast, all monument entrance fees, expert local guides, Jeep safaris, airport transfers, a private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned SUV, and all applicable taxes.
“Hampi is where history rises from the stones, where ancient ruins, sacred temples and dramatic landscapes come together in timeless harmony.”
Hotel Ideas
These are some of the recommended hotels for your private tour
ITC Windsor
Bangalore
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
Royal Orchid Metropole
Mysore
MID RANGE, HERITAGE
The Serai
Chikmagalur
FIRST CLASS
Evolve Back
Hampi
OPULENT
Ahilya by the Sea
Goa
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
The Alila Diwa
Goa
FIRST CLASS
"An incredible trip to India"
Dear Pankaj, you delivered what we had been missing during our last six trips to India—a truly authentic Indian experience! Every part of the journey felt thoughtfully planned, allowing us to connect with the culture, people, and destinations in a much more meaningful way. A piece of advice for anyone hesitating to work with you: If you are tired of cookie-cutter tours and are looking for an authentic, personalised travel experience in India, you are absolutely in the right place. Thank you for creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.
Ms Elaine & Mr Wayne Helson, UK
"Nothing Short of Extraordinary"
We have had the most amazing time, great hotels and great experiences. Our drivers and guides have been excellent, in particular Govinder Raj who has been our driver and companion for the last ten days. Govinder has been extremely obliging and has made sure we have been safe and where we should be, on time, with all our belongings and with a stack of goodies and water. He has kept the car immaculate both inside and out, and has driven us with care and skill on all our journeys. Your planning of all the inclusions such are the ceremonies at temples, boat rides and the Everest Flight made the whole trip one never to forget.
Mr & Mrs Davies-Webb, UK
"Highly Recommended"
I wanted to take the time to thank you for all the hard work you put in to arrange a magical honeymoon for us. We had a ball. All the transfers worked like clockwork, the hotels were great and the route planning excellent. We really felt we were spoon-fed all the way through.
Ms Gayle Rawes & Mr Andrew Slatford, UK
"Superb Service"
The outcome of this trip far exceeded our expectations and we would recommend your agency without any reservation. Our sincerest thanks for a well planned and executed tour.
Mr Eugene & Ms Mirasol Johnson, USA