11 Nights / 12 Days
On Request
Hampi - Pattadakal - Badami - Aihole - Mahabalipuram - Tanjore
India
South India’s ancient kingdoms have left behind extraordinary landmarks that still echo the brilliance of early Indian architecture, sculpture and cultural evolution. This UNESCO-focused private tour allows travellers to witness rock-cut temples, royal enclosures, carved monoliths, classical artwork and timeless shorefront monuments spread across Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Each destination reveals stories of empires, artisans and rituals that shaped the region’s cultural heritage.
From the monumental ruins of Hampi to the Chalukyan masterpieces of Pattadakal, the cave temples of Badami, the early architectural experiments of Aihole, and the Pallava wonders of Mahabalipuram, this journey provides a deep immersion into South India’s historic landscape. With private transport, heritage hotels and a relaxed pace, the tour ensures both comfort and cultural richness.
Arrive at Bangalore Airport, where you meet your private driver who will accompany you for the entire cultural tour. After check-in at your hotel, take time to recover from your journey and become familiar with the comfortable pace of the trip ahead. If time allows, enjoy a short local outing to nearby markets or cafés that reflect the city’s cosmopolitan charm.
In the evening, unwind at your hotel and prepare for the scenic drive to Hampi the next day. Bangalore’s modern energy offers a gentle contrast to the ancient landscapes you will soon explore, making this an ideal starting point.
Begin your morning journey to Hampi, a scenic route passing through small towns, agricultural fields and rural landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at your heritage-style stay, where the surroundings capture the rustic charm of the region. Take some time to relax before stepping out to enjoy panoramic viewpoints overlooking Hampi’s famous boulder-strewn terrain.
As evening approaches, stroll through the quiet lanes or enjoy peaceful views near the riverbanks. The unique geological formations and serene ambience create an evocative setting that prepares you for the grand UNESCO explorations ahead.
Your full-day UNESCO journey begins with the Royal Enclosure, where remnants of palaces, pavilions and water structures highlight the splendour of the Vijayanagara Empire. Explore the iconic Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables and the Queen’s Bath, each showcasing intricate detailing and brilliant engineering.
Continue toward sacred temples like Virupaksha Temple and Krishna Temple, where detailed carvings and mythological stories breathe life into the complex. The vast spread of ruins, combined with dramatic landscapes, offers an unforgettable insight into a glorious era.
Today’s exploration begins at the magnificent Vittala Temple Complex, one of Hampi’s most photographed sites. Walk through impressive corridors, examine ornate pillars and admire the famous Stone Chariot — a true symbol of Hampi’s grandeur. The craftsmanship displayed here stands among the finest examples of Indian architecture.
Later, explore riverside monuments such as Purandaradasa Mantapa and the ancient king’s balance area. These serene spaces offer a striking contrast to the busier complexes, showcasing how Hampi once blended spirituality, art and daily life along the Tungabhadra River.
Leave Hampi and travel to Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its harmonious blend of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles. Explore iconic temples such as Virupaksha Temple, Sangameshwara Temple and Papanatha Temple, where sculptures reveal stories from mythological epics and royal life.
Continue to Badami, the erstwhile Chalukyan capital. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and unwind. The region’s red sandstone cliffs, calm lake and striking cave surroundings create a memorable atmosphere ahead of tomorrow’s visits.
Begin your morning with a scenic coastal drive from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its monolithic temples and rock-cut architecture. Your exploration starts at the celebrated Shore Temple, beautifully positioned against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal. Its stone structure, weathered by centuries of sea breeze, reflects the elegance of Pallava craftsmanship. From here, continue to Arjuna’s Penance, a massive open-air bas-relief depicting mythical scenes with remarkable detailing and life-like expressions.
In the afternoon, explore the Pancha Rathas, each carved from a single rock, showcasing varied architectural styles. Wander through the surrounding landscaped areas and take time to appreciate the Pallava dynasty’s artistic vision. The peaceful environment, combined with the striking shapes of the monuments, allows you to observe ancient creativity in a setting that still feels timeless. Return to Chennai for a comfortable evening at your hotel.
Begin your exploration at the Badami Cave Temples, carved directly into hillside rock formations. These caves display detailed reliefs, towering pillars and iconic sculptures such as Nataraja with multiple dancing poses. The artistic expression found in these caves reflects the refinement of early Indian rock-cut architecture.
Later, explore the Agastya Lake area, where temples frame beautiful waterside views. The Bhutanatha temples, with their serene reflection on the lake, create a peaceful environment for photography and contemplation. Return to your
After breakfast, drive to Aihole, often considered the “cradle of Indian temple architecture.” Visit sites such as Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple and various experimental structures that showcase early architectural innovation. The diversity of temple designs in this region offers a rare glimpse into India’s architectural evolution.
After exploring Aihole, proceed to Hubli Airport for your flight to Chennai. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and rest. Tomorrow begins your journey into Tamil Nadu’s coastal UNESCO wonders.
This morning, explore the majestic Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel built during the Chola dynasty. The massive stone structure, towering vimana and beautifully sculpted figures reflect extraordinary engineering and architectural mastery from the 11th century. As you walk through the expansive courtyard, observe details such as carved frescoes, delicate ornamentation and symbolic pillars that narrate stories of devotion and power.
Spend additional time understanding the temple’s significance, exploring Nandi Mandapam and absorbing the serenity of the shaded corridors. Later, return to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon or explore local handicraft stores featuring Tanjore paintings and metalware that carry on centuries-old traditions.
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Chennai, passing through towns that reflect Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage and daily life. The drive is smooth and scenic, offering moments to appreciate how the region’s art, culture and architecture connect across centuries. Check in at your Chennai hotel and unwind after the journey.
The remainder of the day is free for leisure. You may choose to explore select city attractions, sample local cuisine or simply enjoy quiet time at your hotel preparing for your departure the next day.
Your final morning in Chennai offers time for a relaxed breakfast or a brief visit to a nearby market depending on your schedule. After checkout, your private driver will transfer you to Chennai Airport comfortably and on time.
Your 12-day South India UNESCO Heritage Tour concludes with deep impressions of ancient kingdoms, artistic brilliance and historic wonders that continue to inspire travellers from around the world.
We at India World Wide Travel provide our valuable a premium quality SUV / MUV Safe and Comfortable Cars, Van and Luxury Buses with Private Driver for your journey on your India Holiday. If you wish to have more luxury vehicle for your holiday. Please check our vehicle collection page
After choosing your preferred itinerary, all you have to do to reserve your spot is send a deposit of 20% plus the cost of each booking for the train and airfare.
Your final payment won't be due until 45 days before the start of your tour. The entire cost must be paid at the time of booking if your reservation is made less than 60 days before the tour begins.
Note: All airline booking and cancellation restrictions apply, and full payment must be made at the time of booking for both domestic and international tickets.
We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist!
We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist!
We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist! We know that planning the perfect getaway comes with a few questions, and we're here to help! Whether you're curious about our accommodations, experiences, sustainability initiatives, or bookings, our FAQs have got you covered. If you don't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to assist!
Note: We strongly advise getting travel insurance that includes coverage for disruptions caused by COVID-19.
You have up to 45 days before the tour begins to cancel, in which case your entire land deposit and any advance payments you paid will be refunded within 21 business days.
Note: Only the land portion of the journey is subject to cancellation and rebooking policies; domestic and international train and airline tickets are not.
Note: When purchasing tickets for domestic or international travel, you must pay in full at the time of booking. You must also abide by the cancellation, rebooking and booking regulations of the individual airline and rail operators.
45 days before the tour's commencement date:
Should government travel restrictions force the cancellation of your journey, your deposit and any progress payments will be fully credited towards a future tour with us at no additional cost.
We are not required to provide any reimbursement for services that you do not use if you cancel a trip after it has started for any reason. On your behalf, Royal India Tours will make every effort to retrieve as much of your money as we can or work out a credit for later usage.
Any costs resulting from a cancellation or adjustment made between thirty days before the tour start date and the tour end date will be your responsibility and must be paid by you within twenty-four hours of the modification.
We are not required to provide any reimbursement for services that are not used if the tour must be changed or cancelled for any reason other than illness or COVID-19. On your behalf, Royal India Tours will make every effort to retrieve as much of your money as we can or work out a credit for later usage. Any associated costs are your responsibility and must be paid for within a day.
Refunds or cancellations won't take effect until we get official documentation of the cancellation.
Visit for the complete cancellation and refund policy.
There is a required single surcharge for travellers travelling alone.
Please provide valid passport details Either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the travel date, customers must provide valid passport details. The reservation may be cancelled if this isn't done. Customers will be in charge of any associated costs and fees in this case.
Most visitors need a visa to enter India, except for citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. Tourist visas last for six months but cannot be extended. Nationals of some countries can get a visa on arrival, while others need to apply in advance online. Leaving on a tourist visa means no re-entry within two months, with some exceptions. Businessmen and students can get five-year visas. Certain areas require special permits, and some are off-limits to foreigners.
To get a visa apply online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
The purpose of international travel insurance is to go with you and help you make better-informed travel decisions. Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers and should be taken out before travel and must be purchase from your home country with Sum Insured $50,000 USD to $200,000 USD. Your insurance must cover personal accidents, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with coverage. We also strongly recommend coverage for cancellation, curtailment, personal liability, loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide your policy number and the insurer's emergency contact 15 days before the tour starts. Without these details, you will not be able to join the trip.
During the tour, you are in charge of all your possessions. The standard weight limit for checked baggage on Indian domestic airlines is 15 kg, while carry-on luggage is 7 kg.
Unfortunately, wheelchair users and anyone with limited mobility cannot now participate in our tours because our cars are not wheelchair accessible.
Note that this will require a general degree of fitness. Before making a purchase or booking a trip, please speak with your healthcare physician if you have any concerns.
Please be aware that your schedule may be changed, subject to availability, or an equivalent activity may be provided in its place if entry to a site is impacted by modifications to working hours or public holiday closures.
This covers any modifications to your reservation that you request, including but not restricted to those that call for reissuing the Purchase Confirmation or an airline ticket.
Changes: $100.00 per reservation plus any extra fees levied by the airline, cruise line, lodging or any travel agencies.
In the event that Royal India Tours receives notification of an inaccurate name, there will be a $100.00 booking fee in addition to any additional fees levied by the airline, cruise line, lodging provider or other travel suppliers.
Yes, the itinerary is crafted specifically for travellers interested in ancient architecture and UNESCO heritage sites.
Expect moderate walking, especially in Hampi and Mahabalipuram, where the sites are spread out.
Local guides are provided at key UNESCO complexes to enhance your understanding.
Photography is generally allowed, but certain temple interiors may have limitations.
Yes, the pace is balanced, and private transport ensures comfort throughout.
Yes, places like Kanchipuram, Pondicherry or Madurai can be added.
A mix of heritage properties and comfortable hotels reflecting local charm.
Flights are not included but can be arranged upon request.
Yes, South India offers excellent vegetarian options everywhere.
Absolutely — duration, destinations and hotel categories can be tailored to your preferences.
