Destination Covered: Mumbai - Aurangabad - Ellora Caves - Ajanta Caves - Aurangabad - Hyderabad - Gulbarga - Bijapur - Badami - Hampi - Hospet - Mumbai
Upon Arrival at Mumbai by flight. After a traditional 'Swagat' (Welcome) our representative would assist you at the airport and to our hotel for check in an overnight stay.
Mumbai is an archipelago of seven islands. Artifacts found that these islands had been colonized since the Stone Age & documented evidence of human habitation dates back to 250 BC. In the 3rd century BC, the islands formed part of the Maurya Empire. Later Portuguese appropriated islands from the king of Gujarat later ceded to Charles II of England in 1661, as dowry for Catherine de Braganza. These islands were in turn leased to the British East India Company in 1668.
Overnight Hotel – Mumbai (B)
First we visit Gateway of India- It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V in 1911 Later enjoy an hour's boat ride to the tranquil forested island of Elephanta. The chief attraction of the island is its unique cave temple whose Shiva sculpture is a fine example of Hindu architecture. In the afternoon visit Jehangir Art Gallery and the Prince of Wales Museum, Victoria Terminus, Hanging Gardens, and Mani Bhavan – Gandhi's Bombay base between 1917 & 1934, now a permanent memorial to the Mahatma.
Overnight Hotel – Mumbai (B)
In the morning drive to the airport for the flight to Aurangabad. After a short break we start an excursion to Ellora Caves. The magnificent group of rock temples of Ellora are a part of world heritage monuments. Ellora group of temples represent the art and sculptures of Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, the three dominant religions of India.
Overnight Hotel.
After the breakfast we leave for Ajanta caves (around 100 km). Of the thirty monuments at Ajanta, four caves No 9,10,26 and 29 are sanctuaries or Chaitya containing a Stupa at the centre of their apses. The rest are monastic residences. An Indian poet Kalidas defines these caves as the gem set of jewellery, rich furniture, imposing architecture, natural scenery and fleeting expressions on the faces.
Overnight Hotel.
In the morning after having breakfast we drive from Aurangabad to Hyderabad. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel. Evening you will be free at leisure or for personal activities.
Overnight Hotel.
Today you will do sightseeing in Hyderabad which includes Char Minar, Salarjung Museum and walk by the bazaars.
Overnight Hotel.
After breakfast you will explore the Golconda fort dating back to the 13th century. Later you will drive to Gulbarga via Bidar. At Bidar visit with Rangin Mahal, Sola Kamabah Masjid and the Gagan Mahal.
Overnight Hotel.
In the morning you will visit Gulbarga a unique synthesis of two cultures. Then visit the Fort. In the afternoon after having lunch you leave for Bijapur. We will have an overnight stay at Bijapur.
Overnight Hotel.
In the morning we will visit Gol Gumbaza. Gol Gumbaza is the first thing that is related with the city of Bijapur. Then we will visit Ibrahim Roza, Jumma Masjid. Later we will drive down to Badami. Enroute we will visit Aihole well-known as the "cradle of Indian architecture", Aihole has over 100 temples scattered around the village. By the evening we will arrive in Badami. Badami is famous for its four cave temples.
Overnight Hotel.
In the morning we will visit cave temples. Then we will leave for Hopset and enroute stop at Pattadakal. Pattadakal is situated on the banks of the Malaprabha River and has ten major temples representing early Chalukyan architecture. Evening you will arrive in Hospet.
Overnight Hotel.
Today you will take a tour of Hampi or Vijayanagara, one of the largest empires in the history of India - in ruins. Then we will explore the ruined kingdom and return back to Hospet.
Overnight Hotel.
In the morning you will drive to Mumbai. On arrival you will be transferred to the hotel. Rooms are available to get fresh and change before you depart for the airport with the India Tour Makers representative. The rest of the day will be at leisure.
Overnight Hotel.
Today we support you with your transfer to the airport to board your flight to Mumbai for your onward journey with some sweet memories of the tour.
Tour concludes. India Tour Makers thanks you for your patronage and ensures a punctual transfer to the Railway Station / Airport for your onward travel.