Departure any day of the week
On Request
Bangalore – Coorg – Kabini – Mysore – Hassan – Hospet – Badami – Goa – Mumbai
Explore Karnataka, an enchanting land rich in heritage and abounding in scenic beauty that is sublime, solemn, and spellbinding; a land rich in flora and fauna. Experience nature in its true form in the vast forests of Karnataka and then delve into centuries old architectural marvels in this Cradle of Stone Architecture on board the luxury train The Golden Chariot - a fine balance between a glorious yesterday and an omnipresent tomorrow, culminating your journey relaxing on the sandy beaches of Goa.
Day 1: Bangalore
Arrival at Bangalore Airport and transfer to hotel.
Day 2: Bangalore - Coorg (B/L/D)
Morning proceed for a road journey to Coorg, located atop the lovely blue mountains, the Sahyadris. Take a guided tour of coffee and spice plantation. Learn the difference between an Arabica and Robusta, discover how the Malabar blend got 'monsooned', and explore the spice scented pathways of Orange County to slip into the spirit of the land. Feel the aroma of fresh coffee and spices and the lush greenery around you.
Day 3: Coorg (B/L/D)
This morning, visit Dubare Elephant Camp across the river Cauvery. Get an insight into the life of these fascinating animals and participate in bathing and feeding them and an elephant ride through the forest. Also visit Bylekuppe, the second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet and includes a bazaar selling Tibetan handicrafts and a beautiful Monastery with three large and imposing Golden Buddha statues.
Day 4: Coorg - Kabini (B/L/D)
Early morning proceed for a guided bird-watching walk into Dubare Reseve Forest. Coorg is an Ornithologist’s delight and every bit is as entertaining and enlightening for the amateur birdwatcher too. Over 300 bird species are found here. Later, drive to Kabini. After lunch, proceed for wildlife safari in the Nagarhole NP. Accompanied by a naturalist, the safari provides a good opportunity to observe the various herbivores & predators in their natural habitat. Evening enjoy a Kuruba tribal dance performance.
Day 5: Kabini (B/L/D)
Early morning boat safari on Kabini River offers an opportunity to observe the Marsh Crocodile and water birds, rarely seen during a vehicle safari. The backwaters of the Kabini is a huge water body, attracting a wide variety of water birds. As the waters recede during summer, they leave behind isolated pools of water that attract a multitude of birds as fish are often trapped in them. After lunch, take a bicycle tour of the village of the Kuruba tribals.
Day 6: Kabini - Mysore (On-board Golden Chariot) (B/L/D)
Morning guided bird-watching tour along the river bank, passing through the cultivated fields to observe the water birds and waders. After breakfast, transfer to Mysore to board the luxury train - The Golden Chariot. After Lunch on board, proceed for a tour of Mysore. Visit the impressive Maharaja's Palace, one of the biggest in India. Also visit Srirangapatna a place of great religious, cultural and historic importance.
Spend four nights on Golden Chariot.
Day 7: Hassan (on board Golden Chariot) (B/L/D)
Enjoy breakfast en route your journey to Hassan. This quiet and peaceful town is a convenient base to visit Sharavanabelagola, Belur and Halebid. Shravanabelagola, is home to Asia's largest monolithic statue Lord Gomateswara towering 58 ft. Belur is famous for its magnificent Hoysala Temple Complex. The temple facade is filled with intricate sculptures. Halebid has one of the finest Hoysala temples. The Hoysaleswara Temple is a sculptural extravaganza with its walls richly carved with an endless variety of Hindu deities, sages, stylized animals and birds. Return to board the train.
Day 8: Hospet (on board Golden Chariot) (B/L/D)
Arrive in Hospet, a city filled with wonders and surrounded by marvels. Visit Hampi, a world heritage site. Although in ruins today, this city once boasted riches known far beyond the shores of India. The ruins of Hampi of the 14th Century lies scattered in about 26 sq. km area, amidst giant boulders and vegetation. Return to the Golden Chariot for Dinner.
Day 9: Badami (on board Golden Chariot) (B/L/D)
Continue your journey towards Badami, a world heritage site picturesquely situated at the mouth of a ravine between two rocky hills. The exquisite sculptures and the rust red sandstone cliffs of Badami tell many a tale of yore. The first sculptural embellishment to dazzle the eye is the 18 armed Nataraja striking 81 dance poses. Badami is famous for its rock-cut cave temples, carved out on the red sandstone hills that surround the town. Return to the train and continue your journey to Goa.
Day 10: Goa (B)
Arrive in Goa and leave The Golden Chariot. Transfer to your beach resort.
Day 11: Goa (B)
Take a trip to Old Goa, the ancient capital of Goa including the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Also visit Panjim and take a walk through the small squares and back lanes of the town’s old quarters where the Portuguese influence is most evident.
Day 12: Goa (B)
Day free to enjoy the facilities at the resort
Day 13: Goa (B)
Transfer Goa Airport for your onward flight.
Includes: Accommodation for 9 nights in 5-star Hotels and 4 nights on board The Golden Chariot, transfers, sightseeing as indicated, local English speaking guides and entrances.
Excluded: International flight, Visa, insurance, airport taxes, meals not included above, beverages during meals included in program, gratuities and any expense of personal nature.
Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2023
Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking
Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.