Luxury Walking Tour

After breakfast drive to Hassan, on the way visit Sravanabelagola On this very day, we will start our walking tour at Sravanabelagola. To visit the temple, there are 652 Steps. It takes about 90 minutes to climb up, visit the temple and return to base. On the way to gomateshwara temple in sravanabelagola, the guest will see the lush green landscape and a hill (chandragiri), where another Jain temple is located Sravanabelagola is one of the most famous Jain Pilgrimage centres, where the 60ft tall monolithic statue of Gommateshwara stands atop 3347 ft tall Doddabetta or Vindhyagiri. The 57 feet monolithic statue of Bhagwan Gomateswara stands stop the Vindyagiri hills.

It was built in 980 AD by the Ganga King Chavundaraya. History has it that Chandragupta Maurya came to Sravanabelagola along with his Guru Bhadrabahu and performed the Sallekhana or fast unto death at Sravanabelagola. To see the statue of Gomateswara one must climb 652 steep steps. The statue is serene and has sculpures of creepers and snakes. This is said to imply that nothing in the world is permanent and everything is traHassannsient. Once in 12 years, the Mahamastakabhisheka Ceremony is performed at Sravanbelagola.

At the ceremony the idol is bathed in milk, honey, curds, ghee and flowers. The next ceremony will be held in 2018. In addition to the statue of Bahubali one can also visit other smaller Jain temples on the Chandragiri Hills. Sravanbelagola is a centre for the Digambara Jain Sect and every year many Jains come here to become monks and nuns and also to fast in the Jain tradition. The Times of India Poll voted Sravanabelagola as one of the Seven Wonders in India. It is absolutely essential for you to know that the governors of the pilgrimage site insist that you walk up the granite mountain bare foot. You should leave your footwear at the bottom of the hill and start the climb early before the sun makes it too hot to climb the 620 steps to the top. You can put on your socks and caps for the climb up the steps which gets tougher as you go up.

On reaching the top, the view is simply breathtaking and makes it worth the climb to see the daunting view from the hill top, the imposing Gommateshwara statue atop the hill and Stone Carvings on the pillars on the mountain. The view down the Road and the Coconut groves down below is an added attraction. After visiting Sravanabelagola drive to Hassan. On arrival in Hassan, transfer to the hotel.

Hassan has been named after the town's presiding Goddess "Hasanamba" and is called Karnataka's temple-architecture capital. Hassan dates back to the 11th century, under the rule of the Hoysala Dynasty (11-14th century), who were largely influenced by Jainism.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast visit the twin temple towns of Belur and Halebid for a glimpse of Hindu temple art at its glorious best. In the 16th century, Belur-Halebid (both towns are spoken of in the same breath) were at the heart of the throbbing Hoysala empire. The Hoysalas were huge patrons of art and architecture and built massive temples that have survived the ravages of time.

Some of the sculptures are so exotic, erotic and eloquent - that you expect them to speak or move. About 16 km away from Belur is Halebid, the other temple town, equally magnificent but not as well preserved. Halebid was the capital of the Hoysalas till the Delhi Sultanate destroyed it in the early 14th century after attacks.

The Hoysaleshwara temple survived the pillage but it somehow managed to remain incomplete even after 87 years of uninterrupted construction. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and has two enormous Nandi bulls at the entrance.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast drive to Coorg. Arrive Coorg and transfer to the Hotel Coorg: Situated on the Western Ghats, Coorg or Kodagu (originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest on steep hill'.

Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town has a lot to offer. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination. This is one of the most beautiful hill stations lying in Karnataka's southwestern end, covering an area of 4,102 sq km.

It is often said as Scotland of India. Rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in the Hotel.

Morning enjoy the bird watching walk which will start at around 0630 Hrs and will end up around 0730 Hrs. Coorg is an ornithologist's delight. And is every bit as entertaining and Enlightening for the amateur birdwatcher too. Consider how Coorg alone accounts for over 25% of all bird species in India, and you get an idea of why birding at Coorg is so popular. Return to the Hotel for breakfast.

Later enjoy the Nature walk, which will be of around 03 Hrs, start at 1000 Hrs and back in the hotel at 1300 Hrs.

Learn all about the birds and the beasts, and understand how each tree has a story to tell. Listen to jungle lore under a canopy of multi-hued green, and come back with a greater knowledge of the forest system and a higher sensitivity to the eco system Rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast we will take the guests to visit the Dubare Elephant Camp across the river Cauvery, is a half-day program. Visitors can participate in bathing and feeding the elephants. A specialist guides visitors in elephant behavior and this interaction helps build bridges between man and mammal. The visit ends with an elephant ride through the forest to a nearby waterhole.

Afternoon enjoy the Plantation tour which will start at 1600 Hrs and will end up around 1800 Hrs – Enjoy the tour of the 300 acre working coffee and spice plantation on foot.

Learn first hand the difference between an Arabica and Robusta, discover how the Malabar blend got 'monsooned', and explore the spice scented pathways of to slip into the spirit of the land Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast drive to Kabini. Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape surrounding a large picturesque lake, and fantastic sightings of large herds of elephants.

It is 80km away from Mysore and 205km from Bangalore, and comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarhole National Park. Situated on the banks of River Kabini, this forest reserve is spread over 55 acres of forestland and water bodies. Arrive Kabini and transfer to the Hotel.

Around 1530 hrs enjoy Boat Safari, the guests will be taken upstream from the resort on the Kabini River. The boat, fitted with an outboard motor, in a short while, reaches the area where the river itself separates the Nagarhole National Park from the Bandipur National Park. As a result, the guest will get an opportunity to visit the Bandipur National Park.

The Bamboo - Bambusaarundica commonly called Giant Bamboo, dominates the riverside Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast you will get a chance to visit Tribal village of South India. This visit will start from 1000 Hrs and will finish at around 1300 hrs. 03 kms from the Resort, lies a small hadi or village of the Kuruba tribals. They are the Jenu Kurubas and the Beta Kurubas (collectively called Kadu Kurubas or simply Kurubas).

These people were originally hunter gatherers who switched to swidden agriculture and when that was banned, to collection of minor forest produce. Later afternoon enjoy the vehicle safari which will start around 1500 Hrs and will finish at around 1800 hrs- Guests will be taken into the Nagarhole National Park in a vehicle specially designed to facilitate wildlife sightings.

The Nagarhole ecosystem supports the highest density of herbivores anywhere in Asia. During the safari, which lasts for three hours the visitor has a good opportunity to sight the herbivores.

Sightings of the predators are less frequent, but improve considerably during the summer month Later drive back to the Hotel.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast enjoy the coracle boat ride at Kabini River. (Subject to weather condition). This will be only 15 Minutes joy ride. You will be taken on a traditional round shaped boat called a coracle. The design of the boat is unique to the rivers of southern India and surprisingly to the rivers of Ireland! The coracle will drift slowly down the Kabini, hugging the shoreline.

The purpose of this activity is to allow you to experience the river by bringing you in direct contact with it. You will get to experience the many moods of the river, calm, stormy. After this joy ride check out from the hotel and drive to Mysore. Mysore is rightly known as the "Cultural capital of Karnataka". It is a scenic town located in the state of Karnataka and is also the second largest city in the state following the capital city of Bangalore.

A travel to Mysore is always an enriching experience since you will come across its rich culture, heritage, glorious history, and breathtaking tourist sites apart from the genial and hospitable people. Arrive Mysore and transfer to the Hotel.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast enjoy the sightseeing of Mysore. Visit Maharaj Palace, once a seat of the government, the Maharaja's palace in Mysore is the epitome of grandeur and extravagance that was during the British Raj. In 1897 the old wooden palace was completely burnt down in a fire mishap during the princess's marriage. So a new palace had to be built to match the royal stature of the Wodeyars of Mysore who had succeeded in making Mysore state, the model state of British India. Also visit Chamundi Hills, which is named after the Goddess of Mysore "Goddess Chamundi".

It is believed that through her meditation the Goddess protects the well being of the town below. She is an incarnation of Parvati (consort of Shiva), who killed the demon Mahishasura. Thus bringing peace to the country (Mysore is named after her). One thousand steps or a taxi takes one to the top of the hill. From the top one can get a bird's eye view of the Mysore City below, which looks very enchanting and beautiful. More than halfway up a 5 Mt high granite stone "Nandi" (Shiva's holy bull) guards over the city of Mysore. Sri Chamundeswari Temple on the summit is dedicated to the royal Wodeyar family's presiding deity, the "Goddess Chamundi." Chamundi Hills is the prime landmark of Mysore city, visible almost from anywhere in the city center. The hill has very close association with the founding of the city. In fact the very name of Mysore is associated with the hill.

Chamundi Hills has an important place in the history of Mysore. The oldest temple in Mysore, the Mahabaleshwara temple is located atop the Chamundi Hills. So is the oldest inscription found in Mysore. That was roughly made around the 9th century AD. After visiting Chamundi Hill walk back to main road, this walk will be of around 07 Kms and during this walk group can have the good scenic view of Mysore and lot of greenery of the beautiful landscape.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast drive to Bangalore airport to board the flight to Cochin. Arrive Cochin and transfer to the Hotel. Cochin is popularly known as the ' Queen of the Arabian Sea ' and the Commercial capital of Kerala. The City of Kochi consists of a cluster of islands and peninsulas that includes the mainland of Ernakulam, the islands of Willington, Bolgatty and Gundu, Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. In the evening enthrall yourself with a special presentation of the color fully costumed Kathakali dance drama in a local theater.

Kathakali is a traditional danceform of Kerala and the impressive facial expressions, hand gestures and dance moves will leave one spellbound.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast enjoy the walk around Fort Cochin area. This walking tour gives you a glimpse into Cochin's rich history and heritage, showcasing the mixed Dutch, Portuguese, British and Jewish influences that make the city unique. During the tour, we will visit the old quarter of Fort Kochi, exploring the quaint streets of this city on foot. We will also visit Fort Kochi's seaside promenade, and get a glimpse of daily life in Kochi. The duration of the walk will be around 02 Hours.

We will start the tour from St. Francis Church: It is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader who reached India from Europe by sea, fell ill and died in Kochi. He was buried in the St. Francis Church. Later his remains were taken back to Portugal. In spite of that, his burial spot inside the church has been clearly marked out. Spend around 30 Minutes here. After a short walk reach at Santa Cruz Basilica – This is Roman Catholic Church with beautiful paintings on the ceiling, continue the walk and visit Dutch Cemetry close to St Francis Church. Continue your walk after 10 minutes walk reach at Chinese Fishing nets (Cheenavala) are distinctly unique to Cochin. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here.

Oddly, these nets are found only in Kochi, outside China! Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. A whole stretch of the coast along Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these nets. Visit fish market and if interested taste freshly cooked fish. After this walk enjoy the visit to the followings - Jewish Synagogue: (Closed on Fridays and Saturdays) The synagogue, built in 1568, is magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. Giant scrolls of the Old Testament can be found here. It is located near the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry. Dutch Palace: (Closed on Fridays) The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portuguese. Later, in 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented it to the Raja of Kochi. Coronation of many Rajas of Kochi were held here. The palace has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana.

The palace is located in Mattancherry.

Overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast drive to Alleppey to board House boat (Kettuvallom) on the World famous backwaters of Kerala. "Kettu" literally means to tie up and "Vallom" means "boats".

The boats played a major role in the economic development of ancient Kerala, moving cargo and men from the very nook and corner of otherwise unreachable area, cutting across the length and breadth of the land.

Enjoy your overnight stay in Houseboat.

After breakfast drive to Kumarakom. It is undoubtedly the most invigorating, fascinating paradise in Kerala, God's own country. The slender coconut palms standing here, there and everywhere, its never ending paddy fields, meandering lagoons and backwaters, mangroves nesting birds of a hundred varieties can peacefully calm and invigorate your mind with renewed inspiration for your vocation and life.

That is the pristine beauty of Kumarakom. The fresh water of the lake runs into the mainland making a labyrinth of lagoons, brooks, canals and waterways. The backwater houses a variety of species of both fauna and flora. They are rich with marine life namely the exclusive 'Kumarakom Karimeen' (pearl spotted fish), Konju (tiger prawns), Njandu (crabs), Chemeen (prawns) and many more. Arrive Kumarakom and transfer to the Hotel.

Overnight in the Hotel.

Flight After breakfast you will enjoy a very interesting walking tour of Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a home to a wide variety of tropical flora and fauna, here a significant number of bird species are known to make migratory visits. The park area covers around 15 acres and functions under the aegis of the government of Kerala, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a delight for the lovers of birds. There are mangrove forests, green paddy fields and coconut groves. Blooming lilies increase the look of the park. Several species of birds like the Waterfowl, Cuckoo, Owls, Egrets, Herons Water Ducks, Parrots, Teal, Larks, Flycatchers and Wood Beetle can be seen. The Siberian Cranes are very popular among the migratory birds. The migratory birds can be watched in November to February.

Birds are the main lure of the park. With flapping wings and sweet tunes they maintain a lively atmosphere in the sanctuary. This is a 04 Kms of walk (02 Kms one way) & will take approximately 01 – 02 hrs. Cameras are allowed inside the sanctuary. So, the myriad of birds can be captured in images. After this interesting walk, back to the hotel.

Overnight in the Hotel.

In time drive to the Cochin airport (70 Kms – 1 ½ Hrs drive) to board the flight back home.

(Check out time is 1200 Hrs)