After a relaxing breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a half-day sightseeing tour of Bangalore city accompanied by an English speaking guide. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:
The Bangalore Fort: Witness to the city’s history, Bangalore Fort is one of the popular landmarks to visit. Starting as a mud fort and later transformed into a stone fortress, it is also known as Tipu Sultan’s fort. The Islamic-style architecture and designs, roofs on the gate walls, and the well-protected Ganesha temple are places to visit.
The Bull Temple: The magnificent temple located in the South of Bangalore worships the mythical deity Nandi, the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The huge 15-foot Basava or bull entrances visitors and has been carved from a single stone.
Cubbon Park: The 300-acre park in the middle of the bustling city is a must-visit beauty. Constructed in 1864, the park has a public library and a museum.
Lal Bagh: One of the most beautiful places in the city, Lal Bagh is a garden spread over 24-acres. This green area contains the largest collection of rare tropical and sub-tropical plants along with century-old trees. A highlight of the Lal Bagh is the magnificent glasshouse constructed in 1840, on the lines of London’s Crystal Palace. Adding to the beauty of the garden are fountains, sunshades, lotus pools, rose gardens and a deer park.
Vidhana Soudha: Vidhana Soudha is Bangalore’s most attractive landmark. Constructed in 1956, spread over 5, 00, 000 sq. ft., the architectural style is charming Neo- Dravidian, incorporated with elements of Indo-Saracenic style. The Vidhana Soudha is a hub of government offices apart from the Secretariat and the State legislature.
Later, start your drive to Mysore, the next destination on your Hoysala Temples tour. On the way stop for a visit at Somnathpura.
Somanathpura: Almost a 135 km drive from Bangalore, the historic town is home to the famous Chennakesava Temple built in the 13th century under the Hoysala Empire, the major power in South India. This is the first of the Hoysala Temple you will be visiting on this tour. Marvel at the temple, a fine sample of Hoysala architecture under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India and a protected heritage.
Later, proceed to Mysore, approximately 40 km away.
Mysore: The royal city of Karnataka is home to more than 600 marvelous years of tradition and the royal family of Mysore. Settled in the hilly region of southwestern India, Mysore enjoys weather cooler than coastal cities. Chosen by the Maharajas as their residence, the charming city is one of the most colourful places in India. There are as many 17 palaces in the city, each a spectacular construction of impressive roofs, towers and beautiful doorways. Of note is the city is home to heirloom of the famous soldier Tipu Sultan, known for his victories over the Royal British Armies. Known as the “Sandalwood City”, Mysore is a major hub of sandalwood in India as well as major center for nurturing Silkworms. More than palaces, temples and parks, Mysore is famous for its mouth-watering sweet meat, the whisper of soft silk and the traditional carvings on the sandalwood. Mysore is also known as the Shopper’s paradise.
On your arrival in Mysore, check-in at the hotel.
Overnight in Mysore.