Badami, Kali Tiger Reserve & Goa

On arrival at Hubballi (Hubli) Airport, we meet you and drive to Badami – 140 kilometres, around 3 hours – along a scenic route of countryside and village life. On reaching Badami, we assist with hotel check-in. You can spend the rest of the day at leisure, unwinding after the journey and taking in this historic town’s tranquil setting framed by rugged sandstone cliffs. Overnight in Badami.

After breakfast, we begin at the Badami Cave Temples – rock cut sanctuaries dating to the 6th century – to see the four main caves, each dedicated to different deities and noted for their intricate carvings. We continue to the Mahakuta group of temples, set around sacred pools, to appreciate the early shrines and their detailed stonework.Next, we proceed to Pattadakkal – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – to explore temples that reflect a blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles, including the Virupaksha and Mallikarjuna temples. We conclude in Aihole, often called the cradle of Indian architecture, where we wander among its many ancient temples such as Durga, Lad Khan and Hucchimalli Gudi. Overnight at hotel.

After breakfast, we drive 225 km – around 5 hours – from Badami to Anshi National Park, part of the Kali Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghats. The journey passes through verdant forests and rolling hills. On arrival, we check in to your hotel and take a little time to settle in before heading out on a jeep safari with experienced guides, exploring the reserve’s dense forests in search of wildlife – sightings can include tigers, leopards, elephants and numerous bird species. Overnight at hotel.

We begin with a dawn safari in Anshi National Park (Kali Tiger Reserve), using the soft morning light to look for wildlife and the park’s diverse flora – sightings may include rare and endangered species. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for white water rafting on the Kali River, tackling rapids under the guidance of trained instructors.Afterwards, we drive around 140 km – approximately 3 hours – to Goa and check in to our beachfront hotel to relax after the wilderness experience. In the evening, you can take a leisurely stroll along the beach and watch the sunset. Overnight at hotel.

After breakfast we delve into Old Goa, beginning at the UNESCO World Heritage Basilica of Bom Jesus – revered for housing the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier and a fine example of Baroque architecture. We then visit the historic churches nearby, including St. Cathedral, the Church of St. Cajetan and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, each reflecting the region’s Portuguese legacy. In Panaji, we wander the lanes of Fontainhas – the Latin Quarter – with its colour washed façades, cafés and small galleries. We continue to Aguada Fort, built in the early 17th century, for panoramic views of the coastline and to see the oldest Portuguese lighthouse in Asia. We round off the day at the markets of Panaji, including Panjim Market – you can browse for handicrafts, spices and souvenirs at your own pace. Overnight at resort.

GoaEnjoy a leisurely day with no set programme – make the most of Goa at your own pace. You can unwind on its sandy beaches, take a refreshing dip in the clear waters, browse vibrant markets, or wander through nearby villages to explore local culture. Overnight at hotel.

After breakfast, we transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. As you depart, reflect on the highlights of your trip – the rock–cut heritage of Badami, the wilderness of Anshi National Park in the Kali Tiger Reserve, and the vibrant culture and serene beaches of Goa.