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15 Days / 14 Nights
Daily Tour
10 people
English
The Deccan Dynasties & Kerala Backwaters: Forts, Palaces and Heritage Trail is an immersive journey through South India’s most celebrated historical landscapes and serene natural settings. Beginning in Hyderabad, the tour traces the magnificent legacy of the Deccan Sultanates through grand forts, royal palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage sites at Golconda, Bidar, Bijapur, Badami, and Hampi. The journey then transitions seamlessly into the lush greenery of Kerala, where colonial heritage in Cochin, mist-covered tea plantations in Munnar, rich wildlife in Thekkady, and the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom and Alleppey offer a contrasting yet harmonious experience. Carefully curated to balance cultural exploration with scenic leisure, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a deep insight into South India’s architectural brilliance, spiritual heritage, and timeless backwater charm.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Discount on 2-person group | 2 | 2 | 44.0% |
| 2 | Discount on 3-person group | 3 | 3 | 42.5% |
| 3 | Discount on 4-person group | 4 | 4 | 49.49% |
| 4 | Discount on 5-person group | 5 | 5 | 47.5% |
| 5 | Discount on 6-person group | 6 | 6 | 53.9% |
| 6 | Discount on 7-person group | 7 | 7 | 51.8% |
| 7 | Discount on 8-person group | 8 | 8 | 57.0% |
Arrive at Hyderabad Airport, where you will be welcomed by our representative and assisted with a private transfer to your hotel. Complete check-in formalities and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing after your journey or exploring the surroundings independently. Overnight stay in Hyderabad.
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for a comprehensive city tour of Hyderabad. Visit the historic Golconda Fort, famed for its impressive acoustics and strategic design, followed by the Qutub Shahi Tombs, showcasing remarkable Indo-Islamic architecture. Continue to the iconic Charminar and experience the vibrant local bazaars. Explore the Salar Jung Museum, housing one of the finest collections of art and antiques in India, and visit the elegant Chowmahalla Palace, the former seat of the Nizams. Conclude the day at Birla Mandir, offering panoramic city views. Overnight stay in Hyderabad.
After breakfast, drive to Gulbarga with an enroute visit to the historic Bidar Fort, known for its Persian-influenced architecture and massive fortifications. Continue to the Bahmani Tombs, the final resting place of the Bahmani rulers. On arrival in Gulbarga, check in at the hotel and later visit Gulbarga Fort, the Jama Masjid within the fort complex, the Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, and the revered Dargah of Khwaja Bande Nawaz. Overnight stay in Gulbarga.
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Bijapur, a city renowned for its Deccan Sultanate architecture. Visit Bijapur Fort and the majestic Gol Gumbaz, famous for its massive dome and whispering gallery. Continue sightseeing with visits to Asar Mahal, Bara Kaman, Malik-e-Maidan cannon, and the elegant Ibrahim Roza, often regarded as the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Check in at the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Bijapur.
After breakfast, drive to Badami and check in upon arrival. Visit the famous Badami Cave Temples, renowned for their exquisite rock-cut sculptures representing Hindu and Jain traditions. Explore Badami Fort for panoramic views of the town and Agastya Lake. Later, visit the Mahakuta Group of Temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and dating back to the 6th century, set in a serene natural setting. Overnight stay in Badami.
After breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion to Aihole and Pattadakal, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Aihole is known as the cradle of Indian temple architecture, while Pattadakal showcases a harmonious blend of Dravidian and Nagara styles, with the Virupaksha Temple being a highlight. Return to Badami in the evening. Overnight stay in Badami.
After breakfast, drive to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Visit Anegundi Village to experience traditional rural life, followed by a coracle ride near the dam, offering scenic views and cultural interaction. Evening at leisure to enjoy the unique ambience of Hampi. Overnight stay in Hampi.
After breakfast, explore the magnificent ruins of Hampi, beginning with the sacred Virupaksha Temple. Visit the Vithala Temple complex with its renowned stone chariot and musical pillars, followed by the Lotus Mahal, Hazara Rama Temple, King’s Balance, Royal Enclosures, and the colossal Ugra Narasimha statue. End the day with a sunset visit to Hemkuta Hill. Overnight stay in Hampi.
After breakfast, transfer to Hubli Airport to board your flight to Cochin. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay in Cochin.
After breakfast, explore Fort Cochin, including the Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, and Mattancherry Dutch Palace. Later, drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station set amidst rolling tea plantations. Check in at the hotel and relax in the cool mountain climate. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing in and around Munnar. Visit Pothamedu Viewpoint and tea plantations, Mattupetty Dam and Reservoir, Eravikulam National Park at Rajamala (subject to availability), Mattupetty Dairy Farm, Echo Point, and the Tea Museum. Enjoy scenic landscapes throughout the day. Overnight stay in Munnar.
After breakfast, drive to Thekkady via Ramakkalmedu, stopping for panoramic views and unique rock formations such as Frog Rock and Turtle Rock. On arrival, enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering opportunities to spot wildlife including elephants and bird species. Check in at the hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
After breakfast, visit a spice plantation to learn about the cultivation of Kerala’s famous spices. Continue your drive to Kumarakom, a serene backwater destination, and check in at the hotel. Evening at leisure to relax by the Vembanad Lake. Overnight stay in Kumarakom.
After breakfast, proceed to Alleppey boat jetty to board a traditional houseboat. Cruise through Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, passing palm-lined canals, paddy fields, and village settlements. Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala meals onboard and witness local life along the waterways. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
After breakfast onboard, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Cochin Airport for your onward journey, concluding a memorable heritage and backwater experience.
Q: What kind of hotel accommodation is included in the package price?
We provide accommodation at carefully selected 5-star hotels or the best available quality options in remote regions where luxury properties are limited. Hotels are chosen for their comfort, location, and service standards. In case a specific hotel is unavailable, an equivalent standard property will be provided.
Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation
Hyderabad x 2 nights: ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel
Gulbarga x 1 night: Kyriad Hotel Gulbarga by OTHPL/ Mastiff Select
Bijapur x 1 night: The Fern Residency/ Kyriad Hotel Vijayapura by OTHPL
Badami x 2 nights: Morpho Banashree Resort/ WADA1
Hampi x 2 nights: Evolve Back, Hampi
Cochin x 1 night: Kochi Marriott Hotel/ Xandari Harbour
Munnar x 2 nights: Chandys Windy Woods/ Blanket Hotel & Spa
Thekkady x 1 night: Spice Village/ Hills & Hues
Kumarakom x 1 night: Coconut Lagoon/ The Zuri
Alleppey x 1 night: Luxury Houseboat (Full Time AC)
Yes, we offer flexibility to upgrade hotels to luxury five-star or boutique properties at an additional cost, subject to availability. You can also request specific hotels during the booking process, and we will do our best to accommodate your preference.
Breakfast is generally included with hotel stays unless stated otherwise. Lunch and dinner are optional and can be added to your package upon request. You can also explore local dining during the tour.
Yes, once your booking is confirmed, we will share the final list of hotel names and contact details along with your tour confirmation documents.
Absolutely! We understand that every traveler has different preferences and budgets. If you prefer standard accommodation or 4-star hotel options instead of the default 5-star hotels, we can customize the tour and provide a tailored quote based on your requirements.
