Essential South India Highlights: October 31

Home , Airavatesvara Temple, Mamallapuram

38 Villa Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901 Phone: 415-381-5861 ◆ Fax: 415-367-3081 [email protected] ◆ www.originalworld.com CST Permit #2057026-40

Essential South India Natural beauty-lush green vegetation, palm trees, blue waters, white sands, ancient traditions and a slower pace. Venture with us to all the usual highlights and some less traveled.

Highlights: October 31- November 15, 2021 In-Depth: October 31- November 22, 2021

Detailed Itinerary

Oct 31: Arrive Chennai (Madras) / Radisson Blu City Center Met at airport and transfer to hotel.

NOTE: Group participants who select a flight that arrives in the early morning, check-in on arrival is an additional cost. You will then have the full day to rest and recover from your flight.

Nov 1: Chennai-Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) / Hotel Radisson Blu Temple Bay (B,L)

Relaxed morning. At 10:30 am we start for a city tour of Madras, including the Parthasarathy Temple at Triplicane, 12000 years old, dedicated to Vishnu; and a walking tour of the Mylapore temple area visiting the 16th century Kapeeleswrar temple, dedicated to Shiva, which attracts thousands of devotees. These are living temples where you will see local residents as well as pilgrims who come from afar, in acts of devotion. It is quite a striking experience. We will have lunch in Chennai and then visit the excellent State Museum and National Art Gallery.

Afterwards, drive one hour to Mahabalipuram, en-route stop to visit Dakshina Chitra (approx 45 minutes), a wonderfully conceived Folk Museum that showcases the rich architectural and artistic heritage of South India. All of the traditional buildings have been painstakingly reconstructed with original materials and the exhibitions express many craft traditions. There are also some artists demonstrating their traditional crafts and techniques.

On arrival, check-in to the hotel. This evening at leisure. Dinner on your own at the hotel restaurant (pay directly).

Nov 2: Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) / Hotel Radisson Blu Temple Bay (B,L)

For our morning excursion we shall begin close by, just 2 km north, to visit the Government College of Sculpture to gain an interesting insight into the process of sculpture training.

This afternoon tour of the city including the Five Rathas, the ancient rock temples, carved rock cave shrines and we arrive just before sunset to the famous Shore Temple (Dravidian style of architecture) dedicated to Lord Vishnu-a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will see the carved rock wall sculpture called Arjuna’s Penance.

The proper name of the site is "Mamallapuram," after Mamalla, an honorific of the Pallava king, Narasimha Varman I (630-668), who created the earliest of its monuments. But it is popularly called "Mahabalipuram," or "The city of Bali," whom Lord Vishnu chastised for his pride and of whom there is a relief in one of the excavated temples here.

There are, or rather were, two low hills in Mahabalipuram, about 400m from the sea. In the larger one, on both sides, there are eleven excavated temples, called Mandapas, two "open air bas reliefs" one of which is unfinished, and a third enclosed one.

Out of a big rock standing free nearby there is a "cut out" temple, called a "Ratha." This type is unique to Mahabalipuram.

Out of the other hill, much smaller and standing about 200m to the south, are fashioned five more rathas, and three big sculptures of a Nandi, a Loin and an Elephant. On the top of the bigger hill there is a structural temple, and a little distance the magnificent beginnings of a Vijayanagar Gopura and also survivals of what is believed to be a palace.

The Five Rathas, (named The Dharmaraja, The Bhima, The Arjuna, The Draupadi and The Sahadeva ) about 200 m south of the main hill, were fashioned out of a smaller hill sloping down from the south. From the largest part was made the biggest of the five rathas, the Dharmaraja. Then followed onwards north, in the descending order of height, the Bhima, the Arjuna and the Draupadi. A little to the west of Draupadi there was a comparatively large rock that the Sahadeva Ratha was made from. Immediately in front of the Draupadi again two smaller rocks were sculptured into an elephant and a lion. Behind the Draupadi and the Arjuna, which stand on a common base, there is a Nandi.

These rathas (an irregular expression, for they are really Vimanas, and not temple chariots, as the word means) perpetuate the forms of the temple in use when they used to be made of perishable materials. A Pallava who must have been something of an art critic or art historian decided that these styles should be preserved in eternal rock. Outside Mahabalipuram except in Kazhugumalai (in Tirunelveli district), there is nothing like these rathas anywhere in India.

There are four rathas elsewhere in Mahabalipuram so that there are nine in all. Among themselves they represent four main styles: the apsidal, the barrel vaulted, the domical and the so-called "hut". The third was to dominate the future, with some modifications. The first two are comparatively rare and the last very much so.

Arjuna's Penance - An Open Air Bas Relief

If a temple by the sea and, at times, in the sea is a tour de force, the "open air bas relief" is even more so. In Mahabalipuram alone, of all innumerable sites of monuments, an Indian sculptor was impelled to choose a large cliff face on which to make his carvings.

What is more, he chose a scene from the Mahabharatha (also spelt as Mahabharata), which a great Sanskrit dramatist, probably then living in Kanchipuram, had popularized.

This surface, 29m by 13m, consists of two large boulders with a fissure in between. In the cleavage there are a serpent god and a serpent goddess in the act of worship.

Covering the surface on the boulders on either side of them there are nearly one hundred figures of Gods, sages semi- divine beings, huge elephants and a few other animals.

The Shore Temple occupies a most extraordinary site, by the very margin of the Bay of Bengal so that at high tide the waves sweep into it and the walls, with their sculptures, have been eroded by the winds and waves of thirteen centuries.

This evening’s dinner is no host. There is a restaurant right on the beach serving fresh grilled fish as well as other South Indian specialties. Your guide will reserve a table for the group to sit together and you can each order from the menu what you like. The tab can be applied to your room and paid by credit card when you check out.

Nov 3: Kanchipuram-Pondicherry / Hotel The Promenade (B,L)

We’ll depart at 9 am, for our excursion to Kanchipuram, with a stop at Eagle Temple during the feeding of the eagles by the priests.

Known as the Golden City of 1000 temples, Kanchipuram has 125 recognized shrines dating back to the early Chola Dynasty of around 200 BC. We visit several of the most outstanding and arrange an audience with the esteemed Shankaracharya, who is equivalent to the Pope in Hindu terms (if available). Please Note: Foreigners are not allowed to enter the inner sanctums.

Kachipuram is also known for it’s fine hand-woven silk. A brief time can be allowed to visit a silk shop, if the majority of group members are interested.

We continue the drive to Pondicherry (2 hrs).

On arrival we’ll have lunch at a local restaurant and then visit Sri Aurobindo’s Ashram (a meditation centre), founded by the poet philosopher Sri Aurobindo, and the Mata Mandir, a center of meditation and an architectural marvel in Auroville.

The rest of the afternoon/evening is free to explore the town (easy/pleasant walking around the hotel) or head to the beach. The beach in the evening is a wonderful opportunity to see local families strolling along after their work day with their adorable children often dressed in their finest.

Dinner on your own. There are many fine restaurants including the one at our hotel.

Nov 4: Drive Chidabaram-Gangaikonda Cholapuram- Darasuram – Tanjore (3 hrs) / Hotel Ideal Resort (B, L, D)

From Pondicherry to Kumarakom there are quite a few temples that allow foreigners to enter the inner sanctum. We depart at 7am, as temples close 12-4 pm.

We start with a 2-hour drive to Chidabaram. Inner sanctum is open 6 am – 12 noon. Of the numerous temples that line the southern state of Tamil Nadu, the Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram is one of the most significant. In terms of its antiquity, richness of worship & festival traditions, architectural & sculptural splendor, its association with music & dance, Chidambaram is second to none. This is the foremost of the 108 shrines glorified by the Alwars. It is one of the greatest centers of the Sri Vaishnava religion and among the most visited pilgrimage centers in India.

We shall attend the morning Sairacha Puja at the temple with chanting and hymns.

From Chidabaram to Kumarakom there are quite a few temples that allow foreigners to enter the inner sanctum where we can witness puja along with the locals and possibly be blessed by the priest.

Chidambaram - Gangaikonda Chalapuram: 45 kms /1 hr; open 6 am-12 noon Gangakonda cholapuram has all but disappeared; the surviving temple makes a stop here very rewarding. The highlights here are the sculptures and carvings, especially those of Shiva.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram-Darasuram : 40 kms /1 hr drive; open 6 am-12 noon The Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram is the third of the great Chola temples after Thanjavur and Gangaikondacholapuram.

We have lunch at Kumbakonam, which is approximately 2 km from Darasuram (Sterling Swamimalai or Paradise Resorts).

Darasuram -Tanjore 35 Kms / 1 hr drive.

The Brihadisvara Temple in Tanjore, built between 985 and 1012 AD, is a UNESCO monument. The temple is capped by a monolithic cupola made of a single, 80-ton granite block and has superb inscriptions and sculptures of Shiva, his consort Durga, and Vishnu. There are also 81 carvings of the classical Bharat Natyam poses, which is the first record of any classical dance form in this manner.

We will also visit the Tanjore Art Gallery within the Tanjore Palace compound. The gallery has a good collection of Chola bronzes.

Transfer to the lovely Ideal River Resort for dinner and overnight.

Nov 5: Drive to Chettinad via Trichy (4 hrs) / Hotel The Bangla (B, L, D)

Depart at 8 am. We shall stop in Trichy along the way to Chettinad.

Seven concentric walled courtyards with magnificent gateways and several shrines surround Trichy. The Sri Ranganathasvami Temple, one of the largest in India, is famous for its superb sculpture, the 21 impressive gopurams and its rich collection of temple jewelry.

The Rock-Fort is the landmark of Trichy though not of great significance architecturally. A climb of 434 steps leads to the ancient temple of Ganapati on top and a further climb to a Shiva temple. We will have a view of it atop the hill as we drive by. I have a feeling no one will be interested in this climb!

Arrive in Chettinad, homeland of the Nattukottai Chettiars, in time for a wonderful home-cooked traditional lunch.

There are 74 other villages that comprise Chettinad. Not yet discovered by the world, Chettinad is a rural area certain to surprise even the most discerning traveler.

After lunch, we explore Karaikudi with its fabulous mansions, once the homes of wealthy merchant families known as the Chettiars. One of the specialties of these houses is the woodcarving. We will meet some of the families who have remained in this area. Karaikudi offers weekly shandy [village market], a number of temples, craftsmen working with wood and metal, silversmiths and goldsmiths, attractive textiles and exciting Chettiar cuisine.

Here we experience heritage, art and architecture untouched by time. The Bangla, in Karaikudi village, is reflective of the grandeur of the region, combined with the almost yogic simplicity of the community.

Nov 6: Drive to Madurai (2 hrs) / Hotel Heritage Madurai) / (B,D)

After a leisurely breakfast and a bit more poking around the village, we shall depart at 10 am for the drive to Madurai (80 km/2 hrs). Check-in to the hotel. Lunch on your own (pay direct). A little time to rest as this will be a late night.

A center of Tamil culture, famous for its writers and poets, its history goes back to the 6th century BC. The Nayakas laid out the old town in the pattern of a lotus with narrow streets surrounding the Minakshi Temple at the center. Minakshi, known as the Fish-eyed Goddess and the consort of Siva, is the presiding deity and daily ceremonies are performed at her shrine.

We’ll depart at 3 pm to the bustling city center. Browse bazaars and textile shops if you like. We will visit Padumandappam on the street opposite the Meenakshi temple, with 200 tailors. They will stitch a dress or shirt to your design within a few hours. Take in the excitement as people hurry about preparing for the evening ceremony.

Afterwards, we’ll ride around the temple traveling on cycle-rickshaws to the Surya Rooftop Restaurant for dinner.

Then go to the Meenakshi Temple to witness the nightly spiritual ceremony (pooja) in which Lord Shiva is carried in a palanquin and accompanied by musicians, temple singers and priests to the temple of his consort, Parvati, to spend the night. He is brought back to his temple in the morning. The timing for this ceremony procession is different each night as they follow the almanac so it done during an auspicious time.

On certain nights of the month there is also a Golden Chariot (in Tamil known as Thanga Ratham ) which contains a miniature idol of Goddess Meenakshi. The chariot goes around from the Meenakshi Kalyani Mandapam to the East Gate (called Aadi Veedhi) prior to the nightly ceremony, around 7.30 p.m. Announcements are made on the same day if the Golden Chariot ceremony will be held. Dates cannot be known in advance. Though it occurs each evening, the importance and reverence it has for the locals, never diminishes.

Please note, this night can be a late one!

Nov 7: Madurai / Hotel Heritage Madurai / (B)

This morning, we start with a tour of the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, built in 1636 in the Indo Mughal style. It’s 15 domes and arches are adorned with stucco work. The Celestial Pavilion, an arcaded octagonal structure, is curiously constructed in brick and mortar without supporting rafters. The original complex had an armory, a theatre, royal quarters and a shrine. Only a quarter remains since Thirumalai’s grandson removed sections to build another palace in Tiruchirapalli.

Then we will tour Meenakshi Sundereshwara Temple, outstanding structure dedicated to Minakshi, the fish eyed goddess and consort of Shiva who also has a temple dedicated to him. This is a living temple complete with temple elephants and each shrine has priests performing rituals. The temple is entered through massive gopurams or gateways profusely covered in very colorful carvings, which are believed to be an encyclopedia of Indian dance poses. The mandapas surrounding the main shrine have exquisitely carved pillars and panels. Of note is the panel showing the marriage between Shiva and Minakshi and another showing Shiva in his 24 forms.

The Aayiram Kaal Mandapam (commonly called Thousand Pillar Hall or Hall of 1000 Pillars) within the temple was built in 1569. It is the largest hall in the temple. The pillars are elaborately carved with statues representing various heroes, many from the Mahabaratpur. The pillars at the beginning and end of the row are called musical pillars as they produce musical notes when tapped. At the roof of the entrance are sculptures representing the 60 years in the Tamil calendar. We also tour the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, built in 1636 in the Indo Mughal style. It’s 15 domes and arches are adorned with stucco work. The Celestial Pavilion, an arcaded octagonal structure, is curiously constructed in brick and mortar without supporting rafters. The original complex had an armory, a theatre, royal quarters and a shrine. Only a quarter remains since Thirumalai’s grandson removed sections to build another palace in Tiruchirapalli.

Return to the hotel for lunch on your own and enjoy a bit of relaxed time.

In the late afternoon, we visit Vilacheri, a pottery village on the outskirts of city. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/vilachery-artisans-add-colourful-life-to-dolls/article6341393.ece

We venture back to the bustling city center and if you ordered a custom-tailored item, back to the textile shop to be fitted.

Afterward, visit a local family at their home for tea and snacks. The people of Madurai are amicable, hospitable, and deeply respect and value their tradition. They lead a relaxed and casual lifestyle.

Dinner on your own (pay directly) at the hotel restaurant.

Nov 8: Morning drive to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (approx 4 hrs) / The Elephant Court (B)

Depart at 8:30 am and enjoy a beautiful drive. Varied agro-climatic conditions in Thekkady (Periyar) offer a vast scope for the production of herbs from mint to parsley to oregano. Our hotel is located in the Periyar wilderness, high in the western ghats of Kerala.

For centuries, the area attracted voyagers and adventurers, mercenaries and empire builders, kings and merchant princes. Men and women are drawn not only by the lure of spices, but by the romance and wild beauty of the land. The Portuguese and the Jews of Cochin visited as traders, turning the natural bounties of the area - pepper and cardamom, cinnamon and ginger, nutmeg, mace and anise-- into wealth.

The Periyar hills became nature's taste factory in the 14th century, as Cochin became a major harbor, the port for a spice-hungry world. Later, the area came under the Kingdom of Travancore, and many of its plantations, orchards and hunting lodges date from that time. The Raj too left its mark on the Cardamom Hills. Early efforts at conservation came from its dedicated forest rangers, who loved the land and its people as their own. On the road to Spice Village the earth is a fertile outpouring, every conceivable shade of green, flecked with the crimson and gold of mountain flowers. This is a world of forests patterned in dappled sunlight, plantations of rubber, coffee and spice; rolling highlands and crisp, cool air.

After lunch on your own at the Hotel Restaurant (pay direct), we will take a boat ride on Lake Periyar to view wildlife. This area is home to bison, sambars, wild boars, monkeys, nilgiri langurs, a wide variety of birds, and some 750 elephants.

We will then have some time to visit spice & tea plantations nearby. Disclaimer note: We have no control over the style or comfort of the boats used for the wildlife viewing here. The Government of India controls these boats. This is a pretty area; serious wildlife enthusiasts should not expect the wildlife viewing to be a highlight of this day.

Nov 9: Kerala backwaters / Private Traditional houseboat (B, L, D)

After breakfast, drive to Kumarakon to board a private deluxe Kettuvallom (traditional rice boat) for your overnight tour of the Kerala backwaters. Along the way you will pass rice fields, tiny villages, boats transporting children to school and farmers transporting their produce to the market, and women completing household tasks such as laundry, and washing utensils. We disembark from the boat to wander in the villages and meet the locals. The “kettuvolloms” or rice boats are made completely of natural material. Each houseboat has furnished bedrooms with attached showers and toilets.

At night, the boat will anchor mid-stream, and the crew with freshly bought produce will specially prepare your meals.

The Golden category houseboats have spacious rooms, tiled toilets, hand - shower. They use only Eco-friendly products for the construction as well as maintenance Solar energized fans and lights, bio septic plumbing.

Nov 10: Drive to Cochin (approx 1.5 hrs)/ Hotel Tea Bungalow (B)

One of the finest natural harbors on the Arabian Sea Coast of India, Cochin, an ancient harbor town now renamed Kochi, has been a port of call for foreign traders from very early times. A city of peninsulas and islands, it is the hub of Kerala. The influence of medieval Portugal, Holland and England can still be seen in this fast growing coastal city. It is also known as the spice city of India. Most of the exports of spices are from here.

On arrival in Cochin we shall check-in to the hotel located in the Fort Cochin area, also known as the Heritage Zone. Fort Cochin Area is the Old Dutch and Portuguese commercial centre of Kerala and erstwhile burial place of Vasco di Gama before he was reburied in Portugal. Unlike the neighboring Ernakulam, its streets are quiet and spacious and are a combination of India and old Europe. It is also home to some of Kerala's finest small boutique hotels.

Lunch on your own (pay direct); there are many choices within walking distance as well as the hotel’s wonderful restaurant.

We’ll start our afternoon half-day sightseeing at 2 pm, with an easy walk around the heritage zone including visits to St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was buried for 14 years before his remains were transferred to Lisbon. His tombstone still stands there. Portuguese Franciscan friars built the church in 1503.

Nearby is the Mattancherry Palace or "Dutch Palace” built in 1557 AD. The central hall on the 1st floor was the coronation hall of the rajas of Cochin. Other rooms depict scenes from the Ramayana and Puranic Legends connected with Hindu gods.

Next we’ll see the Chinese Fishing Nets along Vypeen Island (set up between 1350 - 1450 AD). Traders introduced these cantilevered fishing nets from the courts of Kublai Khan. We can browse the colorful array of freshly caught fish and observe the lively market just before sunset.

Nov 11: Full day exploring Cochin. / Hotel Tea Bungalow (B,D)

We depart the hotel at 9 am for our tour including the Jewish Synagogue, constructed 1568 AD, with hand-painted willow-pattern floor tiles brought from Canton in the mid-18th century by a Rabbi who had trading interests there. Afterwards you’ll have time to browse the bazaar area nearby, including the spice market and well-known antique shops.

Return to the hotel for lunch on your own. Do eat a hearty lunch, as dinner will be a bit later tonight.

This afternoon at 2 pm, we drive 30 minutes to the Kerala Folklore Museum. The museum is truly a treasure trove that showcases the rich heritage that Kerala exudes through its numerous art and dance forms. Artifacts that bear the scent of bygone era like masks, sculptures, in wood, stone and bronze, costumes of traditional and ritual art forms, musical instruments, traditional jewelry, manuscripts of rare medicinal and astrological secrets, and Stone-Age utensils are all preserved in this museum with utmost care.

We’ll return to the hotel at 4 pm to rest and refresh. At 5 pm we will depart to the Cochin Cultural Center to attend the traditional Kathakali Dance Performance 6-7:30. We arrive about 530 to observe the actors applying their elaborate make-up.

After the performance we shall have dinner at a nearby restaurant and return to the hotel for overnight.

Nov 12: Fly to Bangalore & drive to Mysore / Hotel Radisson Blu Plaza (B, L)

Transfer to the airport for the flight to Bangalore, flight 6E537, departs 8:25 am, arrive 9:30 am.

On arrival, a brief overview tour of Bangalore on arrival.

After lunch, we drive to Mysore (140 km, 4 hr drive).

En-route we visit Srirangapatnam (16 km/ 10 miles from Mysore), an island fortress in the Cauvery River. It is from here that Tipu charged at the British soldiers with his legendry sword. An obelisk in the Fort marks the place where he fell - betrayed by his own men.

Within the Fort are a Mosque and the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a popular Hindu pilgrimage site. The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Vishnu Temple) is a blend of Hoysala and Vijayanagar style of architecture. Images of Vishnu can be seen on pillars, ceilings and domes represented by the 7-headed serpent after which the island and oldest structure are named.

Time permitting, we will also visit Tippu’s summer palace, (Daria Daulat Bagh), built in 1784, which is now a museum. Transfer to hotel. Dinner on your own (pay direct).

Nov 13: Mysore / Hotel Radisson Blu Plaza (B, L)

Mysore is a magnificent Royal city and site of the Goddess Chamundeswari Temple and the Sacred Chamundi Hill with its Palaces built by Tippu Sultan.

We start with an excursion to Chamudi Hill to visit Sri Chamundeswari Temple, a huge structure with a seven story Gopuram 40 meters high. On the way up the hill we see the famous Nandi (Shiva’s Bull) carved out of solid rock and, at five meters high, perhaps the largest.

Afterwards, visit Mysore Palace. This beautiful Indo- Saracenic Palace dominates the city’s skyline. It was built in 1911-12 at a cost of 4.2 million rupees to replace the former Palace, which was burnt down.

In the afternoon, an excursion the village of Somnathapur (33 km) to visit the intricately carved star shaped Prasanna Channakeshara Temple built in 1268 AD during the Hoysala Dynasty.

Dinner on your own at hotel restaurant (pay direct).

Nov 14: Drive to Hassan (170 km/approx. 4 hours) / Hotel Hoysala Village (B, L, D)

This morning we depart at 9 am to Hassan. En-route, we visit Sravanbelagola, one of the oldest and most important Jain Pilgrimage Centers in India, is the site of the huge 17m naked statue of Bahubali (Gomateshvara), said to be the world’s largest monolith statue. One must climb 620 steps up hill to the statue. It overlooks the country town of Sravanbelagola from top of a rocky hill. Its simplicity is in complete contrast to the complexity of the sculptural work at the temples of Belur and Halebid.

Continue to the hotel for check-in and lunch.

This afternoon we tour the Belur and Halebid temple complexes (12th-14th century). Built by the Hoysala kings, the temples at Belur and Halebid are the cream of what remains of one of the most artistically exuberant periods of Hindu Cultural development. The wealth of sculptural details found on the exterior and interior of these temples makes them the most outstanding example of Hoysala sculptural art. Enjoy dinner at the lovely Hoysala Village Hotel. If Ending Tour

Nov 15: Drive to Bangalore for departure (190km/4 hrs) / (B)

Transfer to hotel near the airport. Rooms for wash and change at hotel. Late evening transfer to International airport.

If Continuing: In-Depth Tour

Nov 15: Drive Hassan-Hampi (350 km) / Heritage Resort (B, L)

Depart the hotel at 8 am for the long drive to Hampi. We stop in Chittradurga (after 4 hour drive).

Chitradurga lies at the foot of a group of granite hills. The fort here was built in the 17th century by the Nayakas. This was subsequently destroyed by Haider Ali who replaced the mud fort with one built of stone, and Tipu Sultan built a palace, mosque and granaries.

Lunch in Chitradurga (pay direct).

Continue to Hampi, 3 hours drive.

Nov 16: Hampi / Heritage Resort (B, L)

Hampi was once the seat of the great Vijayanagara Empire and the center of Hindu rule for 200 years from its foundation in 1336. The Vijayanagar city ruins near the village of Hampi are one of the most fascinating historical sites in south India. The superb ruins are set in a beautiful landscape - a hill country with enormous boulders. Extremely wealthy, greater than Rome, they held a monopoly of trade in spices and cotton. This site was chosen for strategic reasons, but the craftsmen excelled in adopting an ingenious style to blend in architectural masterpieces with the barren and rocky landscapes. Most of the sites are 16th century and built during the 20-year reign of Krishna Deva Raya.

We need a whole day to visit the stunning collection of temples, palaces and market places of Hampi. We will stop for lunch at the Mango Tree Restaurant.

Nov 17: Drive Aihole-Pattadakal-Badami / Krishna Heritage (B,L)

We will depart at 9 am, driving approx. 2.5 hrs to Aihole, the first Chalukyan capital. Aihole is home to monuments and sites from as early as the 5th century AD. This includes some important late Chalukyan temples dedicated to Jain divinities. It is widely regarded as the birthplace of Indian temple architectural styles and site of the first built temples, distinct from those carved out of solid rock. Most of these temples were originally dedicated to Vishnu, though some were later converted into Shaivite shrines. Aihole, is mentioned in the inscriptions as Ayyavole or Aryapura. It is regarded as the cradle of Hindu temple architecture; most of its 125-odd temples were built between 6th and 8th centuries. In an area called Morera Angadigalu, excavations have unearthed a large number of prehistoric sites: temples, pottery pieces, pre-Chalukyan bricks and the bases of structures. There is an Archaeological Survey of India office here that we can visit if the group has interest.

Continue 19 km to Pattadakal on the banks of the Malaprabha River. Pattadakal is the second capital of the Chalukyan kings between 7th and 8th century and the city where the kings were crowned. Most of the temples cluster at the foot of the hill and display a succession of styles of the southern Dravida temple architecture as well as North Indian Nagara style. This clearly illustrates the regions position at the crossroad of North and South Indian traditions. With the exception of one, all the temples are dedicated to Shiva.

From here, it is approx. 45 min drive to Badami. We arrive in the early evening for dinner and overnight.

Nov 18: Badami / Krishna Heritage (B,L)

Set in beautiful countryside amongst red sandstone hills, lakes and peaceful farmlands, the small rural village of Badami was once a capital city of the Chalukyan Empire that ruled much of central Deccan between the 4th and 7th centuries A.D. Four of the temples were cut into the hillside in the early 6th century. Cave 1 is reached by climbing 40 steps, has Siva in his manifestation as Nataraja with 18 arms and seen in 81 dance poses. Cave 2, on a higher level, has reliefs of Varaha and Vamana and Cave 3 is dedicated to Vishnu. According to a Kanada inscription unique to Badami, this cave was excavated in 578 AD and has numerous sculptures including a huge reclining Vishnu. Cave 4 is the only Jain cave and possibly excavated 100 years later.

Other temples of note which we visit include the Buddhist temple near the ancient artificial Bhuthanatha Lake; the 7th century Mallegitti Sivalaya temple one of the finest examples of the early southern style. Statues of Vishnu and Shiva decorate the outer wall while animal friezes appear along the plinth above the eaves; Jabulinga Temple dating from 699 has three chapels dedicated to the trinity and fine carvings. The North Fort Temples include mainly 7th century work and give an insight into Badami history.

Nov 19: Drive to Vijayapura (Bijapur) (196 km) / Hotel Kyriad by Citrus (B,L)

Vijayapura (former name Bijapur) is distinct as it resembles a North Muslim city with its mausolea, mosques and palaces. The main landmarks are: the Jama Masjid, built by Ali Adil Shah I in the 16th century and one of the finest in the Deccan with a large, shallow, onion shaped dome and arcaded court; Ibrahim Rauza, the 17th century palatial tomb beautifully proportioned, its slender minarets, carved decorative panels of lotus, wheels and cross patterns and bold Arabic calligraphy bearing witness to the tolerance of Adil Shah of other religions; and Gol Gumbaz, the vast tomb of Mohammad Sadil Shah which is the worlds second largest dome unsupported by pillars. Despite its sound architectural design, the tomb has been described by some as startlingly ugly.

Nov 20: Drive to Gulbarga (approx. 4 hours)/ Lumbini Grand (B,L)

Gulbarga was the first capital of the Bahmanis and is known in South India as the home of Saiyid Muhammad Gesu Daraz Chisti who was instrumental in spreading the Islamic faith in the Deccan in the 14th century. The most striking remains in the town are the fort, with its citadel and mosque and the tombs in its eastern quarter. The mosque covers an area of 3500 square meters under a dome covering the four corner domes. 75 additional minor domes make this structure unique among Indian mosques. The tombs of the Bahmani sultans lie in two groups; the tomb of Chisti is two stories high with a highly decorated painted dome and a mother of pearl canopy over the grave.

Nov 21: Gulbarga-Bidar-Hyderabad / Hotel Fortune Park Vallabha (B,L)

A morning drive to Bidar (115 km). This walled fort town in North Karnataka was once the capital of the Hamanis and Barid Shahis. The fort is still intact and the palaces and tombs provide some of the finest examples of Muslim architecture in the Deccan, intermingling Hindu and Islamic styles.

After visiting the fort and old town we lunch at a Dhaba, a popular name for an Indian roadside cafe, where the food is hot and freshly cooked. This is a not-to-be-missed culinary experience. The surroundings are rustic, but the cuisine is the equivalent of fine dining in any deluxe city hotel restaurant. We continue to Hyderabad, a distance of 140 km, arriving early evening.

Nov 22: Hyderabad / (B)

After breakfast, we head out of the city (30 km) to the impressive fort at Golconda entered through gateways, which have relief ornamentation of birds and animals. The Fateh Darwaza, or Victory Gate, is made of teak with an engraved Hindu deity studded with iron spikes. Within the ramparts lie the mosques, temples, the three-storied armory, the harem, the Hall of Public Audience and the Rani Mahal with the royal baths.

Returning to the city, we stop at the Qutb Shahi Tombs (11 km west). Each tomb is made of black granite or green stone with plaster decorations of fine sculpture, inscriptions and remains of glazed decoration. The larger tombs have their own private mosque.

Next is a visit to Charminar, built in 1591 by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah. The original Charminar, a huge construction in wood representing the tomb of the Muslim saint Imam Hussain was built to safeguard the city against the outbreak of cholera in the late 16th century. When the epidemic subsided, the Charminar was rebuilt in stone and mortar at the same place where the original structure was built. It is an elegant rectangular edifice of four grand arches facing towards the four cardinal points. Each side of it is 100 ft and pitch of the arch is 50 ft above the ground. The minor height is 180 ft. The remarkable architecture was built under the supervision of engineers and architects of Arabia, Turkey, Persia and India.

The teeming lanes that surround the Charminar encompass one of the colorful bazaars in India. The famous Lad Bazaar is also located here where the colorful stone bangles and other local items are available.

Room is available until departure. Transfer to airport for flight home.

PRICES

Highlights: $4288 based on min 4 people, Single supplement $1124 Plus Airfares (estimate): Cochin-Bangalore $110, Bangalore-Mumbai $110

In-Depth: $5355 based on min 4 people, Single supplement $1434. Plus Airfares (estimate): Cochin-Bangalore $110

NEW: two single room supplements offered at 50% discount on first come basis if the group size is min 6 people.

Cost of Extra night at Chennai: $84 per person twin share; $156 single room Cost of private arrival transfer if arriving prior to Day 1: $52 per car

Includes: Accommodation with daily breakfast and meals as listed

Highlights: One night Radisson Blu City Center https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-chennaicitycentre Two nights Mahabalipuram at Radisson Blu Resort https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-mamallapuram One night Pondicherry at The Promenade https://www.sarovarhotels.com/the-promenade-pondicherry/ One night Tanjore at Ideal River View Resort http://www.idealresort.com/tanjore One night Chettinad at Hotel The Bangla http://www.thebangala.com/ Two nights Madurai Heritage Madurai http://heritagemadurai.com/ One night Periyar at The Elephant Court http://theelephantcourt.com/ One night on Marvel Dlx Rice Boat http://www.marvelcruise.com/ Two nights Cochin at Tea Bungalow http://www.teabungalow.in/ Two nights Mysore at Radisson Blu Plaza https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-mysore One night at Hassan Hoysala Village https://hoysalavillageresorts.com/ Last day rooms for wash/change at Bangalore, Goldfinch Retreat

In-Depth: Two nights at Hampi, Heritage Resort http://www.indoasia-hotels.com/heritage-resort-hampi/ Two nights at Badami Krishna Heritage https://krishnaheritagebadami.com/ One night at Viljayapura Hotel Kyriad by Citrus *** https://www.kyriadindia.com/kyriad-vijyapura.html One night at Hyderabad Fortune Park Vallabha https://www.fortunehotels.in/hyderabad-fortune-park-vallabha.dh.30 Room for wash and change Mumbai at Kohinoor Continental http://www.hotelkohinoorcontinental.com/

Meals: Highlights: 9 lunches and 6 dinners as indicated, In-Depth: 16 lunches and 9 dinners

Mineral water on the bus during drives (I litre per person per day) Arrival / departure transfers (on tour dates), transport by ac Toyota Innova/ac Tempo Traveler Entrance fees to monuments, museums and sites Periyar wild life sanctuary & 1 wildlife viewing by boat Kathakali dance performance Still Camera Fees (min 4 people) Accompanying guide throughout the tour min 4 people, for less than 4 people local guides + porter tips not included India Gov Taxes

Does Not Include: International flight, travel insurance, visa, tips to driver or guide, expenditure of personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, drinks

*The Golden category houseboats have spacious rooms, tiled toilets, hand - shower, kitchen, sit out and nice service. The Houseboats use eco-friendly products such as solar powered fans and lights, bio-septic plumbing.

**Part Two: Hotels in Bijapur and Gulbarga are best available but quality is low. The rooms will be basic but clean and have attached western bathrooms.

Meals: In order to give you greater variety and choices, we have left some days open for you to select meals from a menu rather than have buffet, which is what you are given normally when meals are included in the price. You will still be eating together as a group when we are dining at the hotel restaurant. We will have a placard on the table for our group at every hotel dining room and the guide will let you know the time of our reservation.

Post-tour Extension to Ellora & Ajanta Caves-Following Highlights Tour

Nov 16 Fly to Bombay /Hotel Kohnoor Continental (by the airport)

On arrival take the hotel shuttle from the airport to the hotel. approx 15 minute drive. Dinner on your own at the hotel restaurant.

Nov 17 Aurangabad /Rama International Hotel (B)

This morning take the hotel shuttle back to the airport for the flight to Aurangabad. 9W313 dep. 0515 / arr. 0620. On arrival, transfer to hotel (check-in subject to room availability). If rooms are not yet ready, we will check luggage into hotel security and have breakfast.

Aurangabad is a convenient base for organizing visits to the famous rock-cut temples of Ajanta & Ellora. The town is named after Aurangzeb, the last of the six great Mughal Emperors, who built a mausoleum here for his wife. The most notable feature of these cave temples is that entire hillsides were cut away with the artisan’s chisel to produce these sculptures, which are some of the world’s most exquisite. Ellora’s 34 caves are over 10 centuries old and represent elaborate sculptures from the Hindu, Buddhist and Jain faiths. The caves at Ajanta date back to the 5th century and contain paintings and sculptures of major events in the life of the Buddha.

Visit Ellora Caves The Buddhist, Jain and Hindu caves at Ellora, noted for their sculptures, are considered to be the finest in India and date between 600 and 1100 AD. The landmark of this collection of rock-cut sculptures is the magnificent Kailasanatha Temple, the only building that was begun from the top. This edifice is a tribute to the imagination and craftsmanship of those who conceived and built this masterpiece. It is a most extraordinary freestanding monolithic temple (there are only two of these in India), with unique carvings of the Ramayana and Vishnupurana. You will visit the most outstanding of the 34 cave temples.

Nov 18 Visit Ajanta Caves / Hotel Kohnoor Continental wash/change (by the airport) (B)

A full-day excursion to the caves at Ajanta that date from 200 BC to 650 AD. Altogether there are 29 caves here. These caves, or vihararas (monasteries), are remarkable for the quality of their murals, which relate the life story of the Buddha and reveal the life and culture of the people, royal court settings, family life, street scenes of the time, as well as superb representations of birds and animals. In some of the caves, the murals relate to the Buddha’s previous births, showing the progress of his soul.

Transfer to airport for flight to Bombay AI 441 dep. 20:20/arr. 21.35. Transfer by hotel shuttle to hotel near airport; rooms for wash/change. Late night transfer by hotel shuttle to airport for flight home.

Post-tour Extension to Ellora & Ajanta Caves-Following In-Depth Tour

Nov 23 Fly Hyderbad-Aurangabad /Rama International Hotel (B)

Transfer to airport for flight to Aurangabad, Trujet 2T dep 3:10 pm, arr 4:30 pm. Transfer to hotel.

Nov 24 Visit Ajanta Caves (B)

Nov 25 Aurangabad-Visit Ellora Caves /Rama International Hotel (B)

The Buddhist, Jain and Hindu caves at Ellora, noted for their sculptures, are considered to be the finest in India and date between 600 and 1100 AD. The landmark of this collection of rock-cut sculptures is the magnificent Kailasanatha Temple, the only building that was begun from the top. This edifice is a tribute to the imagination and craftsmanship of those who conceived and built this masterpiece. It is a most extraordinary freestanding monolithic temple (there are only two of these in India), with unique carvings of the Ramayana and Vishnupurana. You will visit the most outstanding of the 34 cave temples.

Price: $590 based on min 2 people, Single supplement $160.

Plus Airfares (estimate): Bangalore – Bombay $115, Bombay - Aurangabad $105 & Aurangabad - Bombay $105 (OR Hyderabad-Aurangabad $115)

Includes: Accommodation with breakfast; wash/change at Kohinoor Continental on last day, arrival/departure transfers and sightseeing by A/C Car or SUV, Professional guide during sightseeing, Monument entrances, India Gov Service Tax 5%

Does Not Include: tips to driver, guide, hotel and airport porters, camera fees, meals other than breakfast, expenditure of personal nature such as laundry, telephone call, drinks