Titled as the 'Garden city". Bangalore’s mellow, tree-lined avenues cannot hide the restless buzz of enthusiasm with which it greets the dawn of each new day, nor the sparkling glitter that adorns night fall. Blessed with a salubrious climate this verdant city is Youthful, Dynamic and exuberant.
Mysuru, the ‘City of Palaces’, is royalty and magnificence embodied; overflowing with history, sprawling gardens and tree-lined boulevards. One of South India’s most fascinating cities, Mysuru has a plethora of places to visit and explore. Ruled over by the Wadiyars from 1399 till Independence, Mysuru is renowned for its royal heritage and splendid monuments and buildings. This former state capital is a seamless blend of old-world charm and modernity. It retains its traditions in music and dance, art and literature, and time-honoured crafts. Mysuru entices you at every turn with its regal splendour. Discover enchanting Mysuru, experience a different world!
Surrounded by Dakshina Kannada in the west, Chikkamagaluru and Chitradurga in the north, Coorg towards the south and Tumkuru in the east, Hassan has an eventful and rich history. It is blessed with a pleasant climate and a great picturesque location. It is here where the plains (maidaans) begin to gently slope into the Western Ghats (malnad).
Belur (also known earlier as Velapuri, Velur and Belapur in olden times) is situated on the banks of Yagachi River and was one of the capitals of the Hoysala Empire. Renowned for its magnificent Hoysala temple complex, the Chennakeshava Temple (also called Vijaya Narayana Temple), which was built by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana to commemorate his victory over the Cholas in 1116 AD. The temple is believed to have been built by master craftsmen – Dasoja and Chavana, a father and son duo. It is proposed to be listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Halebidu is a town located in Hassan District, Karnataka, India. Historically known as Dorasamudra or Dwarasamudra, Halebidu became the regal capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 11th century CE.
Hampi a village in northern Karnataka state located within the ruins of Vijayanagara, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. It continues to be an important religious centre, housing the Virupaksha Temple, as well as several other monuments belonging to the old city. Hampi is the accurate tourist destination for the tourist wanting to explore the heritage of India.
Badami, formerly known as Vatapi, is a town and headquarters of a taluk by the same name, in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka, India. It was the regal capital of the Badami Chalukyas from CE 540 to 757. It is famous for its rock cut structural temples.
Namaste and welcome to India. Arrive at Bangalore airport. You will be met by our representative outside of arrival lounge and then transfer to the hotel (room booked from 1400 hrs). Bangalore also known as “City of Gardens”, this city has beautiful parks, avenues, multiplexes, historical monuments and salubrious climate.
Later in the in afternoon proceed for half day sightseeing visit Tippu’s palace, Bull Temple, Lal Bagh- 240 acres of beautifully sculpted gardens, flowers abound, rare collection of tropical and sub-tropical plants, drive past Vidhana Sabha - built in 1954 in granite, this massive building houses the state Legislature and the Secretariat. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast drive to Mysore (150kms/ 04 hrs) - was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1947. In its centre is opulent Mysore Palace, seat of the former ruling Wodeyar dynasty. The palace blends Hindu, Islamic, Gothic and Rajput styles.
En route stop to visit Sriangapatnam; it is of religious, cultural and historic importance. The monuments on the island town of Sriangapatnam has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its application is pending on the tentative list of UNESCO. Continue drive to Mysore. On arrival check in at hotel.
Upon arrival check in at the hotel, relax for a while. In the Evening, explore in the fruit market (without guide), an apt place to get a flavour of the local people's (Mysore, as they are called) daily life with more than 100 years of history, this market is well knitted into the heritage of Mysore. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast proceed for the visit of Mysore Palace; a historical palace. It is the official residence and seat of the Wodeyars and rulers of Mysore, the royal family of Mysore, who ruled the princely state from 1399 to 1950. The palace houses two durbar halls (ceremonial meeting halls of the royal court) and incorporates an array of courtyards, gardens, and buildings.
Visit Chamundeshwari Temple; a Hindu temple located on the top of Chamundi Hills about 13 km from the palace city of Mysore. The temple was named after Chamundeshwari or Durga, the fierce form of Shakti, a tutelary deity held in reverence for centuries by Mysore Maharajas.
Visit Sri Nandi Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Nandi with a massive, popular sculpture of a bull carved from stone. Evening explore in the fruit market, an apt place to get a flavour of the local people's (Mysoreans, as they are called) daily life with more than 100 years of history, this market is well knitted into the heritage of Mysore. Overnight stay at hotel.
Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel. Later checkout and then proceed to Kabini to enjoy the game drive of spotting the Tigers.
Full day lies ahead of you to enjoy the morning and afternoon game drive. Overnight at the Nagarhole.
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Later proceed to Hassan, En route visit The Gommateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola – one of the most important tirthas (pilgrimage destinations) in Jainism, one that reached a peak in architectural and sculptural activity under the patronage of Western Ganga dynasty of Talakad. Chandragupta Maurya is said to have died here in 298 BCE after he became a Jain monk and assumed an ascetic life style and continue to Hassan. Later day for leisure. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
After early breakfast drive to Hampi via Halebidu – Was the regal capital of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century. It home to some of the best examples of Hoysala architecture.
Post visit, continue your drive and stop at Belur, Chennakeshava Temple Complex, one of the finest examples of Hoysala workmanship. Was completed in 1116 by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana. The temple is 37 meters tall and is standing on a platform which has exquisite art work on its outer walls and bracket figures of dancing girls in various poses in perfect proportion.
Later, we continue our drive to Hampi at our resting place for the day. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel. Today we visit the marvellous sites of Hampi
We begin the tour by visiting the ruins of Vijayanagar city near the village of Hampi are one of the most fascinating historical sites in South India. The two points of entry to the ruins are the Hampi Bazaar and the small village of Kamalapuram.
The old Hampi bazaar is now a village and the locals have inhabited the old bazaar buildings. The village of Kamalapuram is dominated by the Virupaksha temple with its 52m high gopuram. The temple dates back to 15th century.
The highlight of the ruins is the Vittale Temple. The temple is a World Heritage Monument (one of the only three in South India, the others being at Thanjavur and Mahabalipuram). Although the temple was never finished, the incredible sculpture work of the Vittala temple is of the highest standard and is the pinnacle of Vijayanagar art. The outer pillars are known as musical pillars as they reverbate when tapped.
The Royal enclosure area, within it’s various stone walled enclosures has some of Hampi’s major attractions. Firstly, is the Lotus Mahal and the Elephant stables.The former is delicately designed pavilion in a walled compound known as Zanana Mahal. The building gets its name from the lotus bud carved in the center of the dome and vaulted ceiling.
The Elephant stable is a grand building with eleven domed chambers for housing the state elephants.
Overnight stay at Hampi.
Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel. Post breakfast visit The Badami cave temples, a complex of four Hindu, Jain and possibly Buddhist cave temples. The caves are considered an example of Indian rock-cut architecture, especially Badami Chalukya architecture, which dates from the 6th century. Overnight stay at hotel.
Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel. Room booked till 1200 hours, later checkout and in time transfer to the airport to board your onward journey.
Our Services Ends Here…!!!
Immerse yourself in this incredibly plush palace that invites you to take a walk down memory lane. The majestic setting brings back the opulence and magnificence that’s synonymous with the erstwhile Vijayanagara empire, along with modern comforts. Conveniently located in the lush Garden City, this stately property promises the guests a supremely royal treatment along with the assurance of safety with Suraksha by The Leela.
Minutes away from Mysore Palace & Mysore Zoo, Grand Mercure Mysore is located in the heart of the city on the famous Dasara Procession pathway. The hotel offers 146 rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, gym, all day dining restaurant, in-house bar, free WiFi, Kids play area and Spa. Enjoy delicious North Indian cuisine at our rooftop Specialty Restaurant "By the Blue". Our well-equipped Banquets and Meeting Rooms are designed to suit all your needs to host business & social gatherings.
Evolve Back’s Spirit of the land philosophy finds its most intimate expression at Kabini, where you are drawn into the vibrant social tapestry of the local Kadu Kuruba tribe. While you discover a vernacular dimension to luxury that’s truly liberating, the resort gives you a wildlife experience like no other. Inspired in design by the Hadis or tribal villages, this picturesque resort of sweeping panoramic vistas, is bordered on two sides by the Kabini River.
Far from city life and deep in Karnataka‘s historical hinterland is Belur & Halebid. Let your imagination run wild in the midst of the stone monuments as you are transported into the realms of a bygone era. Nestled in the midst of sunflower fields, Hoysala Village Resort forms the perfect base from which to explore these hidden gems. The use of tall wooden ceilings, four poster beds and copper tubs gives our discerning guests the true experience of life in the Malnad region.
Travel back in time to the glorious days of the 14th century Vijayanagara Empire. Let the stone monuments at Hampi tell you the story of what was once described as “the best provided city in the world”. With stunning rugged forests and boulders forming its backdrop, Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, Hampi is located just 4 km from this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its fort like entrances, stone-paved boulevards, arched hallways and regal chambers mirror the famed palaces of a bygone but glorious era.
Make your trip to Badami memorable and refreshing with the added touch of our exotic resort,where nature and class go hand in hand. Just Drive into the Resort for an Everlasting Holiday.
Journey to India.......once is not enough!!!!
BANKING AND CURRENCY
Currency
The Indian Rupee is the official currency of the Republic of India. The modern Indian Rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of INR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 2000. Please note that as of November 2016, the older 500 and 1000 INR note are no longer valid legal tender and only new ₹500 notes will be accepted.
The latest Indian Rupee coins are available in denominations of INR 1, 2, 5, 10.
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding US$5,000 or equivalent in cash, or US$10,000 or equivalent in all forms of currency must be declared. The export of foreign currency is allowed up to the amount imported and declared.
Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. Many hotels also have facilities to change money but this is a more expensive option. It is illegal to exchange money through unauthorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange.
Banking
Banking hours: Monday-Saturday 10h00-03h30 (Bank will be closed on second and forth Saturday).
Strictly speaking, you can neither import nor export Indian currency, but you can get some at the airport straight away to at least get you transport to your accommodation. There are Authorized Foreign Exchange dealers in most big cities, and banks will also change your currency at a fair rate if you have time for the paperwork.
A good way of getting your travellers currency is via an ATM but beware of hidden bank charges, both from the bank providing the ATM and the card-issuing bank - you also do not know what exchange rate you are getting.ATMs are found in most towns and are recommended for cash withdrawals.
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are usually accepted in tourist hotels and many other shops. Debit cards are also widely accepted.
Travellers cheques are widely accepted and may be changed at banks and larger hotels. The most widely accepted currencies include US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Some banks may refuse to change certain brands of traveller's cheques whilst others may exchange quite happily.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT AND GETTING AROUND
India is big and there are lots of interesting ways to travel around it, most of which could not very well be described as efficient or punctual. Allow considerable buffer time for any journey with a fixed deadline (eg. your flight back), and try to remember that getting there should be half the fun.
India's large size and uncertain roads make flying a viable option, especially as prices have tumbled in the last few years. Even India's offshore islands and remote mountain states are served by flights, the main exceptions being Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh (although crossing over from neighbouring states is fairly easy). Due to the aviation boom over the last few years, airports have not been able to keep up with the air traffic. Most Indian airports continue to function with one runway and a handful of boarding gates. Check in and security queues can be terribly long, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.
Railways were introduced in India in 1853, more than one and half a centuries ago, by the British, and today India boasts of the biggest network of railway lines in the world, and the rail system is very efficient, if not always on schedule. Travelling on Indian Railways gives you the opportunity to discover the Indian landscape and scenic beauty first hand and is generally more economical than flying domestic. It is one of the safest ways of travel in India. With classes ranging from luxurious to regular, it's the best way to get to know the country and its people. Most train passengers will be curious about you and happy to pass the time with a chat.
In central locations of big cities like airports or stations reliable pre-paid taxis are available and will save you money as well as the bargaining hassle. However beware of touts who would claim themselves to be running pre-paid taxis. Always collect the receipt from the counter first. The receipt has two parts - one part is for your reference and the other part you will need to handover to the taxi driver only after you reach your desired destination. The taxi driver will get his payment by submitting or producing this other part to the pre-paid taxi counter. Normal taxis running by meter are usually more common. In many non Metro Cities (or even in Metros depending on time) taxies or autos may ply without the usual meter.
While you can't take a cross-country bus-ride across India, buses are the second most popular way of travelling across states and the only cheap way of reaching many places not on the rail network (eg. Dharamsala).
FOOD, DRINK AND CUISINE ADVICE
Water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is often unpasteurised and should be boiled. Avoid dairy products likely to have been made from non-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Do not eat salads, vegetables should be cooked and peel your own fruit. Don’t eat street vendor food unless it is piping hot. Tap water is not safe to drink, rely on bottled water which is widely available. However, do check the seal on bottled water.
Indian food is world-renowned for its tantalising flavours, spiciness and enormous variety. Curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed although these vary from region to region and every spice has medicinal properties and use.
Vegetable dishes are more common than in Europe, particularly in the fruity, coconutty dishes of southern India, while northern India has an entirely different but equally satisfying cuisine to sample. Breads like paranthas, chapatis, naans and rotis are also part of the main diet in several states like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Achars (pickles), relishes and chutneys again vary by region and add more resonance to amazing meals.
Sweets or mithai too have regional specialities. They tend to be milk based and some are syrupy and fried. Well-known northern sweets are gulab jamun, jalebi (it’s worth watching how these syprup-based confections are made in the street), kulfi, kheer, halwa and laddu. From the east are rasgulla and rasmalai. The south has several burfi and halwa-type desserts like coconut burfi and badam halwa made from almonds.
While care should be taken in where one eats, exceptional food can be had in the most humble surroundings such as food at ashrams as can be found in 5-star restaurants. Non-vegetarians will find fabulously spiced mutton dishes according to regional specialities including fish dishes typical to coastal areas.
10 to 15% is usual in restaurants that impose no service fee; optional where service fee is added to bill.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
The weather is mainly hot most of the year with significant variations from region to region. The coolest weather lasts from around the end of November to the beginning of March, with fresh mornings and evenings, and mostly sunny days. The really hot weather, when it is dry, dusty and unpleasant, is between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer anywhere between June and early October.
CLOTHING AND DRESS RECOMMENDATIONS
Male or female, one rule covers all visitors to India: don't leave the house with your arms or legs bare. You'll naturally get attention as a foreigner, as full-on staring is common and accepted on Indian streets, but you'll suffer far less negative attention if you remain covered up. For most locations and seasons in India, thin, loose linen or cotton pants and button-down shirts will keep you comfortable in hot, humid weather and help you blend in. While you may see Indian young adults sporting tight jeans and fitted brand-name tops, you'd stand out significantly more in the same outfit. If you visit anywhere in northern India - not just the mountains, Delhi too - during the winter, prepare for seriously cold weather. Bring jeans and heavy shirts and pick up an Indian wool wrap.
What you can get away with at an Indian beach depends entirely on which beach you visit. In the state of Goa, a popular beach and club getaway destination, locals are accustomed to seeing tourists in bikinis on the beach and Indian men often sport Speedos. But skimpy clothes need to stay on the beach. Don't walk around town or your hotel in nothing but a bikini and sarong. In less Western-frequented beach destinations, such as the beaches around Bombay, Alibag and Chowpatty, or anywhere in the south, hit the beach in light pants and a tunic.
When visiting temples and other religious sites on your own or part of a tour, be on the lookout for signs advising visitors to dress in a specific way to enter the temple. The government of India advises that some religious institutions require visitors to cover their heads or remove their shoes, and covering your legs and arms in respect goes without saying. Certain sites may carry more specific requirements, such as donning a certain colored sash or sarong-like covering. Take your cue from other visitors exiting the site.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUG STANDARDS
For the most part, electrical sockets (outlets) in India are the "Type D" 5 amp BS-546 sockets. This is actually an old British standard. The "Type D" Indian plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type M" South African plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.
Electrical sockets (outlets) in India usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliances are not compatible with 220-240 volt electrical output, a voltage converter will be necessary.
