Wild Karnataka and North Kerala

On arrival in Bangalore, you will be met and transferred to the Taj Bangalore Airport, conveniently located close to the terminals. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in and relax before setting off on the journey through Karnataka.

After breakfast, set off on the drive north to Hampi, a journey of approximately six and a half hours. On arrival, check in to Evolve Back Hampi and take some time to settle in. In the evening, enjoy a storytelling session with the resort’s resident historian, an introduction to the extraordinary history of this part of Karnataka.

Exploring the Ruins of Hampi

Spend the next two days exploring the ancient ruins of Hampi, with a series of guided trails taking in its great temples, monuments and historic sites.

The first day begins with the Tungabhadra Trail, exploring the ruins of the Achyutaraya Temple, before continuing in the afternoon to the Vijaya Vitthala Temple complex and its surrounding monuments.

The following day takes in the Virupaksha Temple Trail, including Hemakuta Hill, Hampi Bazaar and the impressive Narasimha Monolith. In the afternoon, follow the Raya Trail, visiting the Queen’s Bath, Hazara Rama Temple, Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stables, amongst other sites.

Across Karnataka to Chikmagalur

After breakfast, leave Hampi and drive south towards Chikmagalur, a journey of approximately five to six hours. En route, stop at the historic Chitradurga Fort, where you can explore the fort with your driver, before taking a break for lunch and continuing to The Serai. On arrival, check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Belur and Halebid

Today, take a full-day excursion to Belur and Halebid, former capitals of the Hoysala rulers. These two historic sites are home to some of the finest examples of medieval Indian art, with beautifully detailed temples and intricate stone carvings offering a fascinating insight into the region’s past.

On to Mysore

After breakfast, drive to Mysore, a journey of approximately four and a half hours. En route, stop at Hassan, known for its collection of ancient temples from the Hoysala period, and take a break for lunch before continuing to the city. On arrival, check in at Efkays Homestay and relax.

Discovering the Royal City

Spend the day exploring Mysore, one of southern India’s most historic cities. Visit the grand Mysore Palace, before taking a tour of a historic factory producing the famous Mysore silk. Later, choose between a guided Royal Walk, exploring the city’s heritage buildings and architecture, or a Local Food Trail, discovering some of its traditional dishes and local food culture.

Into the Forests of Kabini

Today, drive to Kabini, taking approximately three hours. On arrival, check in at Evolve Back Kabini, on the edge of Nagarhole National Park. In the afternoon, head out into the park on a shared safari, choosing between a jeep, canter or boat, with the chance to look for some of the area’s wildlife.

Safaris in Nagarhole National Park

The next two days are devoted to exploring the forests and waterways of Nagarhole. Morning and afternoon safaris offer further opportunities to look for the park’s elephants and elusive leopards, as well as the other wildlife that inhabits this part of Karnataka. Game drives are accompanied by experienced naturalists, with time between excursions to enjoy the facilities of the lodge.

Into the Coffee Highlands

After breakfast, leave Kabini and drive into the highlands of Coorg, a journey of approximately four hours. Stop en route at Bylakuppe, the oldest Tibetan settlement in India, before continuing to Evolve Back Coorg. On arrival, check in to the plantation retreat and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Discovering Coorg

Spend the day getting to know the region, beginning with a guided walk through the coffee and spice plantations. Later, visit a traditional home belonging to a Kodava family, where you can learn more about the community’s history and customs, followed by a typical Kodava lunch.

Alternatively, take an excursion to Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can learn about the elephants, their ecology and biology, and the long-established Indian traditions of elephant husbandry.

The Coast of North Kerala

Today, drive west towards the coast of North Kerala, a journey of approximately four hours. On arrival in Neeleshwar, check in at Neeleshwar Hermitage and spend the remainder of the day relaxing by the beach.

An Overnight Backwater Cruise

Today, board the Lotus Houseboat for an overnight cruise through Kerala’s backwaters. Travel along the network of canals and waterways, passing the landscapes and settlements that line their banks, with a night spent aboard the boat.

Back to the Beach

Disembark from the houseboat and return to Neeleshwar Hermitage. The remainder of the day is at leisure, with the opportunity to enjoy the beach retreat and its yoga and wellness activities.

A Day at Leisure in Neeleshwar

Enjoy a final full day at your own pace. Relax on the coast or, if you would like to explore further, take an excursion to some of the local spice gardens.