Key Features
• Stroll through the lively streets & markets of Kolkata
• Explore magnificent temples & hidden architectural gems
• UNESCO listed cave temples of Ellora & Ajanta
Included
18nts hotel, 1nt overnight sleeper train - train travel is in 2nd class berths in an air-conditioned open plan carriage; 18 breakfasts included.
Transport
Bus/Train/Flights.
Group Size
Approx. 13 to 18.
Tour Staff
Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s), some local guides.
Kolkata & Orissan Temples
Our adventure begins in Kolkata (Calcutta), considered by many to be India's intellectual centre with a lively cultural scene and streets rich in colonial history. We journey south along the coast by train to Orissa where we're privileged to visit some of the world's finest temples; the exquisite Sun Temple at Konarak, Puri's Jagannath Temple dedicated to Vishnu and the myriad shrines of Bhubaneshwar.
Hyderabad & Hampi
Heading westwards and inland we'll spend a week in discovery and exploration of both the world-renowned and unsung hidden treasures of Central India. Hyderabad, glorious centre of Islamic architecture and learning, the walled city of Bijapur, white-washed village of Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole and last but not least, splendid Hampi, the once flourishing capital of the Vijayanagar kings which is now a vast open-air treasure house of 16th century Dravidian art.
Goa, Mumbai & cave temples
Descending across the Western Ghats there's a chance to relax on the long white sandy beaches of Goa before flying north to investigate the bustling city of Mumbai (Bombay). Our journey continues to the famous Ajanta Caves where a series of remarkable wall paintings record the full flowering of Buddhism in a silent, dream-like atmosphere. We overnight in the old Moghul city of Aurangabad before heading off to explore the nearby Hindu temples at Ellora.
Comment
This tour is suitable for anyone in reasonable health with stamina required due to tour length. Infrastructure in parts of central India can be poor - be prepared for some bumpy road journeys.