India · UNESCO Heritage Sites

Imperial Heritage & Tranquil Backwaters: Mumbai to Kerala

13 Days Round trip from Mumbai Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Mumbai landmarks including Marine Drive, Gateway of India, and Elephanta Caves
  • 02 Visit Hyderabad icons such as Golconda Fort, Charminar, and Salar Jung Museum
  • 03 Discover UNESCO-listed Hampi and its remarkable temple and royal ruins
  • 04 See the historic sites of Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, and Mattancherry Dutch Palace
  • 05 Cruise Kerala’s backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat in Alleppey
  • 06 Relax on the sandy shores of Marari Beach with time at leisure
  • 07 Travel with private AC transport and local English-speaking guides
  • 08 Enjoy daily breakfast and all meals during the Alleppey stay

Discover a richly layered journey through India, from Mumbai’s landmark waterfront and UNESCO-listed Elephanta Caves to the grand forts, tombs, and museums of Hyderabad. Continue to the extraordinary ruins of Hampi, where temple complexes, royal enclosures, and stone-carved monuments reveal the legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The experience then shifts south to Kerala, where colonial-era Cochin, a traditional Alleppey houseboat stay, and the peaceful shores of Marari Beach offer a slower, more tranquil pace. With private transport, guided sightseeing, daily breakfast, and meals during the Alleppey stay included, this 13-day itinerary blends heritage, culture, and relaxation in one memorable trip.

The experience then shifts south to Kerala, where colonial-era Cochin, a traditional Alleppey houseboat stay, and the peaceful shores of Marari Beach offer a slower, more tranquil pace.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 13 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Hyderabad, Hubli, Gadag, Kochi, Alappuzha, Mumbai, Hampi
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai

Begin your journey with a delightful breakfast at the hotel upon touchdown at Mumbai airport.

After check-in, take a moment to unwind and settle into your accommodation, preparing for the adventures ahead.

2
Day 02

Day 2: Mumbai

Start your exploration with a scenic drive along Marine Drive, famously dubbed the "Queen's Necklace" due to its glittering lights resembling a string of pearls.

Upon arrival at the Gateway of India, marvel at this iconic monument overlooking the Arabian Sea, erected to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.

Embark on a ferry excursion to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing ancient rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing remarkable sculptures and artwork.

Visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, to delve into the rich tapestry of Indian art, history, and culture.

Drive past the historic landmarks of CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Parliament House, capturing glimpses of Mumbai's colonial heritage.

Refuel with a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel before embarking on your day of sightseeing.

3
Day 03

Day 3: Mumbai - Hyderabad (Flight)

Board a flight to Hyderabad, the bustling capital of Telangana.

Check-in at your hotel and take some time to relax and rejuvenate after your journey.

4
Day 04

Day 4: Hyderabad

Kick off the day with a delectable breakfast before commencing your exploration of Hyderabad's architectural wonders and cultural gems.

Discover the formidable Golconda Fort, an ancient citadel renowned for its strategic location, fascinating history, and breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Journey to the Qutub Shahi Tombs, a majestic necropolis housing the final resting places of the rulers of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, adorned with intricate stonework and ornate domes.

Behold the iconic Charminar, a symbol of Hyderabad's rich heritage and vibrant culture, and immerse yourself in the bustling markets of the surrounding area.

Explore the exquisite artifacts and rare treasures housed within the Salar Jung Museum, one of the largest and most esteemed museums in India.

If time permits, consider a visit to Chowmahalla Palace, the opulent seat of the Nizams, showcasing regal architecture, lush gardens, and a rich collection of artifacts.

5
Day 05

Day 5: Hyderabad - Hampi (Flight)

Transfer to airport to board flight for Vijayanagar.  On arrival at Vijayanagar airport assistance & transfer to hotel in Hampi. Rest time free & easy to relax. Overnight at hotel.

6
Day 06

Day 6: Hampi

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on a fascinating journey through Hampi's UNESCO World Heritage sites, each a testament to the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Explore the Hazara Rama Temple, adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana, dedicated to Lord Rama.

Visit the Kings Balance, an ancient ceremonial scale used to weigh kings against precious materials, symbolizing their humility and devotion.

Ascend the Mahanavami Dibba, a grand platform adorned with ornate carvings, believed to have been used for royal ceremonies and celebrations.

Wander through the Royal Enclosures, once the seat of power and administration, now a maze of majestic ruins evoking the empire's former glory.

Stand in awe before the monolithic Statue of Ugra Narasimha, a colossal representation of Lord Narasimha in a ferocious form, carved from a single boulder.

Pay homage at the Virupaksha Temple, a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva, bustling with devotees and adorned with intricate sculptures.

Marvel at the architectural marvels of the Vithala Temple Complex, featuring the iconic Stone Chariot and musical pillars that produce melodic tones when struck.

Conclude your day with a visit to the ASI Museum, where artifacts excavated from the Hampi site are preserved and displayed, offering insights into the region's rich history and culture.

Refuel with a delicious breakfast before embarking on your day's adventures.

7
Day 07

Day 7: Hampi - Hubli (160kms)/ Cochin (Flight)

Depart Hampi and proceed towards Hubli, stopping en route to explore the historical treasures of Lakkundi.

Discover the ancient temples and step wells scattered across Lakkundi, showcasing exquisite carvings and intricate architecture dating back to ancient times.

Continue your journey to Gadag, where you'll marvel at the Trikuteshwara Temple, a remarkable example of Chalukyan architecture featuring three lingams carved from a single rock.

Transfer to Hubli airport for your onward flight to Cochin, the vibrant port city in Kerala.

8
Day 08

Day 8: Cochin - Alleppey (60kms)

Embark on a half-day exploration of Cochin's cultural and historical landmarks, beginning with a visit to Fort Cochin.

Wander through the narrow lanes of Fort Cochin, adorned with Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture, and admire the iconic Chinese fishing nets along the waterfront.

Step inside St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and pay homage to the final resting place of Vasco da Gama, the legendary Portuguese explorer.

Continue your journey to the Jewish Synagogue, a testament to the rich Jewish heritage of Cochin, featuring exquisite Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles.

Explore the Mattancherry Dutch Palace, a sprawling complex showcasing vibrant murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and the history of the Cochin Rajas.

Transfer to Alleppey, where you'll board a traditional houseboat for a leisurely cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala.

9
Day 09

Day 9: Alleppey - Mararikulam Beach

Disembark from the houseboat and transfer to the serene shores of Marari Beach.

Check-in at your beachfront accommodation and spend the day at leisure, soaking up the sun, swimming in the azure waters, or strolling along the powdery white sands.

10
Day 10

Day 10: Mararikulam Beach

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the idyllic surroundings of Marari Beach.

Unwind with a soothing Ayurvedic massage, practice yoga by the sea, or simply lounge beneath the swaying palm trees, savoring the tranquility of this coastal paradise.

11
Day 11

Day 11: Mararikulam Beach

Embrace the laid-back lifestyle of Marari Beach as you enjoy another day of leisure and exploration.

Engage in water sports such as kayaking or windsurfing, embark on a cycling tour of the nearby villages, or treat yourself to a delectable seafood feast at a local beachside eatery.

12
Day 12

Day 12: Mararikulam Beach - Cochin (60kms)/ Mumbai (Flight)

Bid farewell to the sun-kissed shores of Marari Beach and transfer to Cochin airport for your return flight to Mumbai.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, embark on an optional shopping excursion to explore the city's bustling markets and vibrant shopping districts.

13
Day 13

Day 13: Mumbai - Departure (Flight)

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before bidding farewell to the enchanting land of India.

Transfer to Mumbai airport for your onward journey, carrying with you cherished memories of the Grand Imperial Monuments & Backwater of Kerala Tour.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Mumbai 7 cities · 13 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 12 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.
  • Daily breakfast at hotels.
  • All meals during the stay at Alleppey.
  • Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in the car.
  • Government taxes.

What's Not Included

  • Mumbai - Hyderabad - Vijayanagar & Hubli - Cochin - Mumbai flight fare approx INR 20,500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments if any.
  • Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.
  • Gratuities and optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Know before you go

  • STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Mumbai, IN
Tour start
Mumbai, IN
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 13 days finish where they began, in Mumbai.

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