The Empire of Vijay Nagar

13 Day's :
Mumbai - Kohlapur - Badami - Hampi - Hassan - Mysore - Bangalore

Hassan reached the height of its glory during the rule of the Hoysalas, who had their capital at Dwarasamudra, the modern Halebeed in the district of Belur. This region, noted for its enchanting natural scenic beauty is also a veritable treasure-house of Hoysala architecture and sculpture, the best specimens of which are at Belur and Halebeed. Moreover, Shravanabelagola, in Channarayapatna district, which is studded with Jain monuments, is a renowned centre of pilgrimage for the Jain. The peaks of the Hindu sculpture were achieved in the temples of Belur and Halebid.

The Mysore Palace illustrates the excesses of Maharajas. Situated in the centre of the town is the opulent mansion, former seat of the ruling Wodeyar dynasty. The palace blends Hindu, Islamic, Gothic and Rajput styles, and is dramatically light at night. Mysore is also home to the centuries-old Devaraja Market, filled with spices, silk and sandalwood.

Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) is the capital of India's southern Karnataka state. Bangalore with its computer business is definitely looking to the future, but the city is also known for its green spaces and nightlife. Near Cubbon Park, Vidhana Soudha is its massive Neo-Dravidian legislative building. Former royal residences include 19th-century Bangalore Palace, modelled after England’s Windsor Castle.