Bygone Bungalows & Living Culture South India Rediscovered
Route : Bangalore Hampi Hassan Mysore Kabini Gudalur Coonoor Cochin
13 Nights/ 14 Days
Overview
Join us on a journey through South India, where history, nature and tranquillity come together in every moment. From the hustle and bustle of a vibrant city to the timeless charm of ancient temples and royal palaces, the adventure unfolds with every discovery. Explore the wild beauty of dense forests on exciting safaris. The magic of this journey lies not only in the sights, but also in the places you call home along the way - elegant accommodations nestled in the heart of nature, where the air is heavy with the scent of tea and the sounds of the land soothe your soul. A nostalgic train ride through breathtaking landscapes connects you to the rhythm of the land, offering moments of stillness and wonder as the world unfolds at a gentler pace. The journey ends on the coast, where heritage and tranquillity meet in perfect harmony. This is a journey that goes beyond destinations - it's about feeling the pulse of South India, discovering its soul and finding your own peace in its embrace.
Location Map
Itinerary
-
1Day 1 : ARRIVAL IN BANGALORE
Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. On this day, the room will be available from 1400 hrs. Afternoon tour of Bangalore City- a city known for its modernity, lush greenery and rich cultural heritage - offers a vibrant and diverse experience.Cubbon Park, with its sprawling green oasis, invites you to linger and relax. A drive along the Vidhana Soudha, the impressive seat of the Karnataka legislature, offers a view of the majestic neo-Dravidian architecture. Nature lovers will find relaxation in the Lalbagh Botanical Garden - a botanical paradise with over 1,000 plant species and an iconic glass house.With its successful blend of history, culture, nature and modern urbanity, Bangalore promises a varied and enriching sightseeing experience. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
2Day 2 : BANGALORE/ HUBLI FLIGHT 6E 7227 DEP 0635- ARR 0805 HRS HUBLI/ HAMPI ( 171 Kms / 03 ½ hrs .)
In time transfer to Bangalore airport and board flight for Hubli . Upon arrival at the airport depart by car to Hampi, upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
3Day 3 : HAMPI
Morning proceed for city tour of Hampi and Hospet is a fascinating journey through time - a place where ancient splendor meets cultural charm. Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the thriving capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is today known for its impressive ruins spread across a surreal, boulder-strewn landscape. The tour begins with significant sights such as the Virupaksha Temple, a Hindu sanctuary active since the 7th century, and the Vittala Temple, which impresses with its intricately carved stone chariot and musical pillars. A stroll through the Hampi Bazaar brings the hustle and bustle of the market to life. Other highlights include the elegant Lotus Mahal, the majestic elephant stables and the Queen's ornate bath - impressive examples of the architectural sophistication of the Vijayanagara dynasty. Breathtaking views from Matanga Hill and Hemakuta Hill, especially at sunrise or sunset, complete the experience. Hospet, just 13 kilometers away, serves as a modern gateway to Hampi. Together, Hampi and Hospet form a harmonious combination of historical depth and modern infrastructure - ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural richness and natural beauty in equal measure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
4Day 4 : HAMPI/ HASSAN ( 327 kms / 06 ½ hrs .)
Morning depart by surface to Hassan, upon arrival check-in at the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
5Day 5 : HASSAN/ MYSORE ( 111 kms / 02 ½ hrs .)
Visit to Belur and Halebid, two historic towns in the Indian state of Karnataka, is like walking through a living open-air museum - characterized by masterful stone craftsmanship and timeless temple architecture. Belur, idyllically situated on the banks of the Yagachi River, is best known for the Chennakesava Temple - an architectural jewel of the Hoysala dynasty from the 12th century. The temple walls are richly decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from the great Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata, dancers, deities and mythological figures in breathtaking detail. Just 16 kilometers away is Halebid, once the magnificent capital of the Hoysala Empire. The Hoysaleswara temple with its twin shrines in honor of Lord Shiva impresses with its lavishly decorated outer walls adorned with a continuous frieze of the finest stone sculptures - an enduring testimony to artistic brilliance.the tranquil ambience, the partly dilapidated but venerable structures and the extraordinary sculptural art offer a deep insight into the glorious past of the region. Surrounded by lush greenery and the peaceful rhythm of rural life, a trip to Belur and Halebid is not only a culturally and architecturally enriching experience, but also a quiet return to the golden era of Karnataka. Later drive to Mysore and upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
6Day 6 : MYSORE
Morning, drive up to Chamundi Hill to visit the Chamundeshwari Temple, an impressive temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, perched on the hill and offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Mysore. The temple is not only an important spiritual center, but also an architectural jewel and is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Karnataka.on the way back, a visit to the famous Nandi statue at the foot of the hill is recommended. This imposing, monolithic representation of Nandi - the sacred bull and companion of Lord Shiva - is artfully carved out of stone and bears witness to the rich cultural heritage of the region. A short walk past the statue offers the perfect opportunity for atmospheric photos and a moment of reflection after visiting the temple. Afternoon, a visit to the Mysore Palace is on the agenda; this landmark is a magnificent example of Indo-Saracenic architecture that harmoniously combines Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic elements. The palace impresses with its majestic façade, ornate rooms, spacious courtyards and richly decorated ceilings. A particular highlight is the magnificent Durbar Hall, adorned with impressive frescoes and sparkling chandeliers.It is an unforgettable sight in the evening when the palace is lit up with thousands of lights - a magical moment that brings Mysore's royal past to life. A visit to the Mysore Palace impressively conveys the history, splendor and cultural heritage of the Wadiyar dynasty. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
7Day 7 : MYSORE/ KABINI ( 61 Kms / 01 ½ hrs .)
Morning depart by surface to Kabini, upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Kabini National Park, located on the southeastern edge of the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve in Karnataka, is one of the best wildlife destinations in India and is known for its impressive biodiversity and the exceptionally good chances of spotting big cats such as tigers and leopards as well as wild elephants in the wild. The jungle safaris in Kabini mainly take place in the Nagarhole area, especially in the Antharasanthe zone. They offer nature and animal lovers exciting opportunities to experience wildlife up close in its natural habitat - an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves the wilderness. Afternoon visit to jungle safari on a shared jeep/canter. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
8Day 8 : KABINI/ GUDALUR ( 125 kms / 03 ½ hrs.)
Morning drive to Gudalur en route visit the remarkable life-size Lantana Elephant sculptures. Check in at Hushstay x PLENTI House. Tucked away in a quiet fold of the Nilgiri Hills, where the clouds drift low over tea-covered hills and the air carries the scent of damp earth and wild flowers, lies a corner of Tamil Nadu that few pass through - but those who do, never forget. In Gudalur, where the dense forests of Wayanad give way to mist-shrouded tea plantations, time slows to a gentler rhythm. Surrounded by the rich biodiversity of the Mudumalai and Bandipur tiger reserves and dotted with tribal villages, the land here is full of stories - recorded in the soil, whispered through the trees and passed on in quiet conversations. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
9Day 9 : GUDALUR
In the morning, take part in a yoga session. Embark on a gentle walk led by our team through the nearby village and tea plantations. Wander along winding paths, pause at scenic viewpoints and exchange warm smiles with the locals who call this land home. It's an easy way to connect with the place, its people and the quiet beauty that surrounds you. In the afternoon, participate in a social cause in Gudalur offers a unique opportunity to support local communities, indigenous tribes, and environmental conservation. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
10Day 10 : GUDALUR/ OOTY ( 50 Kms / 01 ½ hrs .) OOTY/ COONOOR TOY TRAIN
Morning drive to Ooty, after arrival embark toy train for Coonoor The toy train ride from Ooty to Coonoor, a section of the UNESCO-protected Nilgiri Mountain Railway, offers a scenic journey through the verdant Nilgiri hills. The approximately 19-kilometer route is known for its scenic beauty with lush tea plantations, dense forests and charming hill villages. The train passes through numerous curves and tunnels and offers passengers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. On arrival in Coonoor, transfer to the HUSHSTAY X MILFORD ESTATE. Steeped in history and set against the rolling hills of the Nilgiris, Hushstay x Milford Estate is a graceful ode to colonial-era architecture. Built in the late 1800s, this four-bedroom bungalow carries the charm of a bygone time, where high ceilings, teakwood interiors, and expansive glass windows frame the surrounding wilderness. Every detail whispers of an era that valued unhurried living—where mornings begin with the aroma of freshly brewed tea on the veranda, and evenings unfold by the warmth of a flickering fireplace. A stone pathway, lined with snapdragons and wild roses, leads through a canopy of trees before revealing the bungalow’s elegant white façade. The entrance, marked by chevron-tiled flooring and a classic colonial-style porch, opens into a home that seamlessly blends heritage with nature. Thoughtfully designed, the layout offers a sense of openness—sunlit rooms flow into one another, and French windows invite the mist and melody of the hills inside. Overnight stay at the Estate.
-
11Day 11 : COONOOR
Mornings at Hushstay x Milford Estate begin with a hot cup of tea, birdsong and mist-laced gardens. Step out for a quiet walk through the gardens and beautiful surroundings. For a deeper connection with the land, explore the hills which lead you through shola forests, introduce you to wild edible flowers, and make sure you pause to take in the quiet beauty of it all. Overnight stay at Mildford.
-
12Day 12 : COONOOR/ COCHIN ( 256 kms / 06 hrs .)
The drive from Coonoor to Kochi (Cochin) is a scenic journey that transitions from the lush hills of Tamil Nadu to the vibrant landscapes of Kerala, offering travelers a diverse and enriching experience. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
13Day 13 : COCHIN
Morning city tour of Cochin explores its rich history and culture. Visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets, the colonial charm of Fort Kochi, and historical sites like St. Francis Church and Santa Cruz Basilica. Discover the murals at the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue in Jew Town, known for antiques and local crafts. This tour captures the essence of Cochin’s diverse heritage.This tour offers a perfect blend of Cochin’s historical landmarks and cultural richness. Evening enjoy Kathakali dance performance in Cochin is a vibrant cultural experience, showcasing Kerala's traditional art form. With elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive dance, performers tell stories from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, accompanied by live traditional music. The performance, takes place in specially designed theaters where you can witness the dancers’ skillful movements and the deep emotional expressions that are the hallmark of Kathakali. It’s a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with Kerala’s cultural heritage and artistic excellence. Overnight stay at the hotel.
-
14Day 14 : DEPART COCHIN
In time transfer to the international airport and fly home.