Itinerary

1. 14-Hour Heritage Tour from Bangalore to Hoysala Temples

   07:00 AM – Pick-up & Departure from Bangalore

   • Your designated driver will meet you at your hotel, airport, or railway station in Bangalore.
   • A professional English-speaking guide will join the tour to assist and share insights throughout the journey.
   • Start early in a comfortable coach or car to make the most of the day.

   08:30 AM – Breakfast at Kunigal (30 mins)

   • Stop at a highway restaurant near Kunigal for a wholesome South Indian breakfast.
   • Popular dishes include idli, dosa, vada, and filter coffee.

   10:00 AM – Shravanabelagola (2 hrs sightseeing)

   • Visit one of India’s most important Jain pilgrimage sites.
   • Climb approximately 600 steps (or hire a dolly service) to reach the summit of Vindhyagiri Hill.
   • See the colossal 57-foot monolithic Bahubali (Gomateshwara) Statue, carved in 981 AD, the world’s largest free-standing stone statue.
   • Admire its serene expression symbolising peace, sacrifice, and detachment, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.

   01:00 PM – Depart for Hassan (Approx. 1 hr drive)

   02:00 PM – Lunch at Multi-Cuisine Restaurant (30 mins)

   • Enjoy a traditional Karnataka-style vegetarian and non-vegetarian lunch.

   02:30 PM – Belur (1 hr sightseeing)

   • Explore the Chennakesava Temple, built in the 12th century by the Hoysalas.
   • Admire the star-shaped platform, exquisite soapstone carvings, and walls depicting the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and intricate figures of dancers, gods, and animals.
   • Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage candidate, this temple showcases the peak of Hoysala craftsmanship.

   03:30 PM – Drive to Halebidu (20 mins)

   03:50 PM – Halebidu (1 hr sightseeing)

   • Visit the Hoysaleswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
   • Observe elaborate soapstone sculptures, including friezes of elephants, lions, horses, and mythological scenes.
   • Explore nearby Kedareshwara Temple and the Archaeological Museum.

   04:50 PM – Drive to Doddagaddavalli (24 mins)

   05:15 PM – Lakshmi Devi Temple (30 mins sightseeing)

   • Discover the 12th-century Lakshmi Devi Temple, a hidden gem of Hoysala architecture.
   • The temple houses shrines dedicated to Lakshmi, Kali, and other deities within a compact layout.
   • Appreciate the simpler yet unique architectural style compared to Belur and Halebidu.

   05:45 PM – Return Journey to Bangalore (Approx. 3 hrs)

   • Relax during the evening drive back.
   • Optional stops for tea or coffee en route.

   09:00 PM – Drop at Bangalore

   • Your driver will safely drop you at your hotel, airport, or railway station.