An Intro to Karnataka: Goa, Hampi & Mysore

In the 16th century this former Portuguese colony, on the southwest coast of the country, was the richest port in the world, with twice the riches of the Venice. Only a few beautiful colonial mansions in Fontainhas today bear witness to this grand era. Old Goa, surrounded by churches and convents dating back more than 300 years, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. But Goa is first and foremost all about soaking up the lively atmosphere, and finding a hidden spot to enjoy. Goa is known for its dreamy beaches and you'll have plenty to choose from, but you'll also be able to talk long inland walks, and enjoy yoga and meditation.
Included in the itinerary- A bike ride to explore the Old Town of Goa, formerly the second-largest city in India, which still boasts many remnants of its occupation by the Portuguese, including its religious buildings. These include the city's historic bridge, built in 1633, Monte's Nossa Senhora Chapel, which offers stunning views of the area and many of Goa's iconic monuments.

Drive to Hubli. Settle into your accommodation on the north shore of Unkal Lake, a large modern establishment. There's a gym, sauna, tennis court and an outdoor swimming pool. The restaurant serves Indian, Chinese and international dishes. From there, overlooking the large bay, you can see fishermen in their coracles (circular boats made of tarred wicker).

Drive to Badami. Overnight in a small hotel at the entrance to the village.
Included in the itinerary - Private tour of the Badami caves. These are four temples cut into the red rock. One is dedicated to Shiva, two are dedicated to Vishnu, and the fourth is a Jain temple. Take in the incredible sculptures that have been here since the sixth century, such as Shiva Nataraja, whose dance symbolises the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction.

Included in the itinerary - Private visit to the temples of Aihole and Pattadakal. The Durga Temple in Aihole dates from the seventh and eighth centuries. It is rectangular in shape and bordered by a gallery with pillars which makes it possible to perform the ritual of parikrama. Vishnu and Shiva dominate the bas-reliefs. As the former capital of the Chalukya dynasty (from the sixth toeighth centuries), Pattadakal has preserved a sacred domain, predominantly Shivait, in excellent condition. The contemporary southern and northern styles of Indian architecture merge with the beauty of the artistic work.
On to Hampi and to your accommodation for the next two nights a few miles from the sacred site, in the heart of nature in an exceptional setting, a simple but comfortable cottage - the best accommodation in the region.

Included in your itinerary - The private visit to Hampi begins with the ruins. Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the site was home to the capital of the last great Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar, whose extremely wealthy princes built temples and palaces. Among these remains are the Krishna Temple complex, all the temples of Narasimha, Ganesa and Hemakuta, and the complexes of Achyutaraya, Vitthala, Pattabhirama and Lotus Mahal temples. You'll have plenty of free time to stroll and lunch, then a visit to Hazara Rama Temple. This small temple is decorated with bas-reliefs relating to one of the great narratives of Hindu mythology, Ramayana. During this day trip we offer you an introduction to Karnataka cooking in the form of a private lesson in the house of one of the women of the village of Anegundi.

Drive to Hassan. You'll have overnight accommodation in the hills, northwest of the city. Situated in a lush garden, the traditional buildings are made of wood and stone. To relax, you can slip into the pool or try your hand at table tennis or badminton. The house's ambience reflects the country character of the Malanad and Hassan area.

Included in the itinerary - Halebid, an hour's drive from Hassan, was the capital a few centuries ago; it is now a pleasant little village with gardens and well-kept lawns. Visit Hoysaleswara, a double temple dedicated to Shiva and the goddess Parvati and covered with illustrations of the life and reign of the Hoysala rulers. Belur, on the other hand, is a small, bustling city and one of the jewels of Indian architecture, among the richest in Hindu culture. Then it's on to Mysore, through the mountains of Karnataka dotted with sugar cane plantations. You'll get to enjoy two nights in a palace. The Maharajah of Mysore had it built in the early 1920s to accommodate his guests in style.

Included in the itinerary - Private visit to Mysore. Commissioned by the Maharajah, the architect built Mysore to be a work of art. Today only the Taj Mahal attracts more visitors than Mysore Palace. You'll also climb the thousand steps of Chamundi Hills, at the top of which stands the Sri Chamundeswari temple, dedicated to Shakti, consort of Shiva and guardian goddess of the local maharajahs. Halfway up the slope, you will find Shiva's vahana (vehicle), the Nandi bull, carved in the 17th century from a block granite. From up there, the views of the surrounding area are spectacular, so once you've soaked them on, enjoy a walk in the market on the way back.

The last stop on this journey is Bangalore. The hotel is in the stylish neighbourhood, bordered by a large park. It is modern, comfortable and well equipped with beautiful bedding, high-end bathrooms, spa, gym, swimming pool, and restaurant.