Deccan Discovery - Mumbai to Goa

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Mumbai

Arrive in Mumbai at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into to the hotel (check-in time is 12.00 midday) and enjoy the city. In the evening you will meet your fellow group members to go over the details of your trip. Check the notice board to see what time and where the group meeting will be held. Mumbai the most happening cosmopolitian city of India. Here you can find people of every religion, from every part of world. This city is lively, young and it never sleeps. It is also know the the Manhattan of India due to the the large number of skyscrapers located by the Arabian Sea. Mumbai is basiaclly a group of seven islands. Mumbai was given by Portuguese as dowry to Charles II of England when he married Catherine. It was leased to the East India Company who offered freedom of business and religion to persons who came and settled here. Initially a few Parsis and Gujarati came but soon a sizeable population began to thrive here. This was way back in the 17th century. Today also Mumbai is a city of migrants. People from all over the country have come and settled here. This gives the society of Mumbai a multi-lingual and multi-cultural colour.Like all large cities Mumbai has a variety of food to suit all tastes and budgets. A number of famous people (Bollywood stars and cricketers) have established restaurants. Check with the hotel to see what is the latest happening place. And in Mumbai you won’t have to look far for a quintessential snack; try the vada pav (leavened wheat bread split in half, with fried dumplings as filling), panipuri (deep fried crêpe with tamarind and lentil sauce), pav bhaji (leavened wheat bread accompanied with fried vegetables) and don’t miss the bhelpuri (puffed rice mixture).If you arrive early in Mumbai, some favourite things to do; rise at dawn to watch the morning ritual at the Sassoon Docks, South Mumbai’s main fish loading and trading centre; shoot a picture of the Gateway to India, facing westward out to sea; stop in for a cup of tea at the famous Taj hotel next door; visit Elephanta Island (also called Gharapuri Island or place of caves), famous for is cave temples caved straight from the rock; people-watch on Chowpatty Beach or visit Crawford Market, one of South Mumbai's most famous markets.

Day 2-4 Aurangabad/UNESCO World Heritage Caves - Ellora and Ajanata

Travel by early morning train from Mumbai to Aurangabad, located on the Kham river. Aurangabad was an important seat of the Mughal Empire for a short period, and was founded by Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor, and it was named after him. Thus, the city has many monuments speaking volumes about the grandeur of the Mughal architecture. Apart from these historical structures, the city is also the main hub for visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Ajanta and Ellora caves. These sites have Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu temples. Aurangabad is also famous for its silk and cotton textiles.The incredible caves of Ajanta are dedicated exclusively to Buddhism. There are around 30 caves here and are divided into 'Chaitya-Grihas' (stupa halls) and 'Viharas' (dwelling halls). The caves are cut from the volcanic lava of the Deccan in the forest ravines of the Sahyadri Hills and are set in beautiful sylvan surroundings. The Ajanta caves are divided into three groups. The oldest group is believed to belong to the period between 200 BCE to CE 200, the second group is believed to belong to the sixth and the third group to the seventh century. Almost all the interior walls and ceilings of the caves are covered with murals. The famous Ellora caves are located in the lap of the Chamadari hills. These historical caves, 34 caves with intricate interiors and ornamental facades, are also a UNESCO World Heritage site. They were completed after five centuries, during the 350 A.D. and 700 A.D, and were carved by the Hindu, Buddhist and Jain monks. These historical monasteries, temples, and chapels reflect the outstanding imagination and detail work of art . Besides the caves at Ajanta and Ellora , Auranagabd also has some other wonderful sites. Kailasa Temple is the largest monolithic structure in the world. Two great trenches some 90 meters long were dug into the hillside. They were connected at the deepest point by another trench 53 metres across. The temple was meant to appear as though rising from a vast courtyard at ground level. Bibi-ka-Maqbara is a tomb that bears some resemblance with the Taj Mahal. This Maqbara attracts the tourists due to its wonderful architecture and historical importance. It is a mausoleum built in memory of Aurangzeb's wife Rabia-ud-Daurani Begum.Daultabad fort served as the head quarters of the powerful Yadava rulers. In the 13th century, Mohammed bin Tughlak, the Sultan of Delhi, made it his capital and renamed it Daulatabad, or City of Fortune. One of the world's best preserved forts of medieval times, surviving virtually unaltered, Daulatabad still displays many of the internal contrivances that made it invincible. A series of secret, quizzical subterranean passages lie amidst the fort. Its defense systems comprised fortifications of double and even triple rows of massive walls.On the evening of Day 4 we take our overnight sleeper train to Hyderbad. From the ancient tot he new. Hyderabad is one of Inida's fastest growing cities due to the IT boom.

Day 5-6 Hyderabad

Hyderabad is famous for museums, monuments, food and, of course, pearls. This is also the region whose diamond mines produced some of the world’s most coveted rocks such as the Kohinoor, the Pitt or Regent Diamond, the Hope and the Orloff.This imperial capital of the Nizams of Hyderabad, is home to many grand monuments including the Charminar, the Golconda Fort, the Qutab Shahi Tombs and the Falaknuma Palace. History and modernity coexist in this city, where a mixture of religions, cultures and architectural styles come together to create one of the most interesting historical places in India.Hyderabad was India's biggest and richest princely state as large as England and Scotland together. You will discover the riches of this city of Nizams, its colourful bazaars and mosques of the Old City and taste one of its famous biriyanis. Biryani is synonymous with Hyderabad but the subtleties of its cuisine go far beyond the biryani as it imbibes the Mughlai cuisine of the North with zesty sauces and spices of the South, creating a vast and seductive repertoire that's uniquely its own.The Charminar, the majestic architectural hub of the city stands at the heart of the old city of Hyderabad, built by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1591. The structure is square, each side measuring 100 feet, with a central pointed high arch at the center. The minarets, their domed finials, rise to 180 feet from the ground. The purpose of the edifice, built on the main artery connecting Golconda to the port of Masulipatnam (modern Machilipatnam), is unclear. Some say it was built in thanksgiving and that the four minarets symbolise the arms of the Sultan and his Begum outstretched in prayer. Charminar is also the name of a popular brand of cigarettes - Hyderabad’s most famous export! Located near the Charminar is one of the largest mosques in India, Mecca Masjid, accommodating up to 10,000 people. The construction of the Masjid was begun by Muhammad Qutb Shah in 1617 and completed by Quranzeb in 1693. Some 8,000 masons worked on the mosque and 77 years later, in 1694, Aurangzeb added two elegant minarets to it. Modelled on the Grand Mosque in Mecca, it has a rectangular hall and a high roof supported by 15 arches. Its name comes from the belief that some bricks in the central arch were made using earth brought from Mecca.Golconda Fort , this 16th century fortress is a majestic monument, which lies on the outskirts of Hyderabad city. Golconda has been known as famous center for diamonds. It was originally a mud fort built by the Kakatiyas (1150-1323) and was reinforced with eight fortified gates and massive ramparts in the 16th and 17th centuries by its later occupants, the mighty Qutub Shahis. In 1687, Aurangzeb captured the fort. The ruthless sacking that followed destroyed most of the citadel, but the ruins that survive to this day are enough to fire one’s imagination. At the foot of the Golconda Fort, to the north-west side, stands a complex of graceful onion-domed tombs of the Qutub Shahi kings and their consorts. Hussain Sagar is a large artificial lake in the city and was constructed in 1562 AD. Also known as Tank Bund, it connects the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. It was built by Ibrahim Qutb Shah, in gratitude to Husain Shah Wali, who had cured him of a disease. Hyderabad’s equivalent of Mumbai’s Marine Drive, people flock here in the evenings for a walk or just to shoot the breeze. Salar Jung Museum, next to the Musi River, is amazing because it houses one of the largest collections put together by an individual, in this case Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, better known as Salar Jung III. The exhibits include paintings, miniatures, furniture and sculptures procured by him from the Far East, India, West Asia, Africa and Europe. Only 25 per cent of the entire collection that includes 35,000 exhibits, including priceless objets d’art and over 50,000 rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, is actually on display. Ramoji Film City, locatd about 40kms from Hyderabad. Where else will you find Ajay Devgan with ketchup on his face. Or Bobby Deol warding off goons with a flick of his hand. Ramoji Film City (RFC), spread over 2,000 acres, is the favourite prowling ground for filmmakers.On the evening of Day 6 we board our overnight sleeper train to Bijapur.

Day 7 Bijapur

Bijapur or the city of victory was the capital of the Adilshahi dynasty (1489 to 1686 A.D.). One among the confederacy of five states which saw the eclipse of Hindu rule in the south. The city abounds in mosques, mausoleums, palaces and fortifications. The best way to discover Bijapur is to hire a bike and ride around the town.The main attraction of the city is the well known Golgumbaz. Dominating the landscape of Bijapur is its hemispherical dome, believed to be the world's second largest. Unsupported by pillars, it stands testimony to a major engineering feat. Its acoustical qualities are so phenomenal that a whisper is echoed 12 times over and the slightest sound made by the rustle of a paper carries over a distance of 38 metres. Under the dome lies the tomb of the 7th Adilshahi King Muhammed Adil Shah. His two wives, his mistress, his daughter and his grandson were also buried alongside.The other main attraction of this city is the Jumma Masjid. It was built between 1557 -1686, during Ali Adil Shah reign, one of the first mosques in India, and is still used for worship. The total area of the mosque is 10,810 sq. m. The mosque houses nine large arches on their subterfuge that form 45 compartments. The majestic tomb rises above the roof in a semicircle resembling the bud of a flower. Aurangzeb extended the mosque in the east and constructed the eastern gate. The main gateway of the mosque is on the northern side. The interior of the mosque shows some decorative motifs on the apexes of the arches. It also holds an exquisite copy of the Quran, written in gold. Local food specialty lies in the variety of breads prepared out of different grains. Jowar Roti ('Jwalada Bhakri') and Bajra roti ( 'Sajji Bhakri") are the types of breads delicately prepared and served with 'Bhartha' (Brinjal-egg plant) curry, along with "Shenga Chutney" (spicy peanuts powder mix ) served either with peanut oil , and a delicious creamy yogurt (curd).

Day 8-9 Badami

Today we travel to the town of Badami, nestling between sandstone cliffs and overlooking the picturesque Agasthyathirtha lake (built in the 5th century A.D.). Badami was the ancient capital of the Western Chalukyas. Scooped out of these cliffs are the famous rock caves, four of them in a row. The first masterpiece among these is the 18 armed Nataraja (Shiva), portraying 81 dance poses in vigorous abandon. Two cave temples relate to Vishnu and the fourth one to Durga. Cave 4 is the only Jain temple in Badami, of Mahavira, the 24th Thirthankara. The natural cave is a Buddhist temple. Among the remarkable carvings are the `Flying Gandharvas' (Cave II) and the elaborate legend is also found in cave II.Badami is a great base to discover the nearby towns of Pattadakal and Aihole.Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a mere 30 kms away from Badami, where all the Chalukyan kings were crowned. Situated on the banks of the Malaprabha river, it became a centre for experimentation in southern and northern styles of temple architecture conducted by the Chalukyas. Viewed across the river, the cluster of ten temples reflect the architect's aesthetic approach to space and form.The Virupaksha temple, which is an amalgam of the Chalukyan and Pallava styles of architecture has some exceptionally beautiful sculptures. This is also called as the Lokeshwari temple, named after the queen of Vikramaditya II and built in 740 A.D. s it is believed to have been worked on by Pallava artists. A 2.6 m high Nandi in deep green stone faces the temple, which is still in use.While the Papanatha temple is a fusion of southern and northern styles of architecture, the Galaganatha temple resembles the North Indian temples. The Mallikarjuna temple built in the Dravidian style has sculptures depicting the life of Krishna. An old Jain temple containing two stone elephants is also noteworthy.Aihole is at a distance of about 20 kms from Pattadakal, was the capital of the Chalukyans between the 4th and the 7th centuries and symbolises Hindu temple architecture in its formative years. Gandaragudi and Ladkhan are the earliest temples and the Durga temple, unusually built like a horse-shoe is another important structure in Aihole. The Durga temple complex has the first model of the intricate Hoysala pillars. There are more than 70 structures in Aihole, most of them still in good condition.

Day 10-11 Hampi

Today a local bus takes us to Hospet where we need to transfer a short distance to Hampi. The magical charm of Hampi, a beautiful ancient temple town settled on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, will greet you as soon as you step off the transport. The splendid ruins of Hampi, the 14th century Vijayanagar Empire, lie scattered in about 26 sq km area, amid giant boulders and vegetation. Climb any boulder toppled mountain and from this vantage point you can appreciate that this was the capital of a kingdom that stretched all over Southern India.Hampi was a city of opulent palaces, marvellous temples, massive fortifications, baths, markets, aquaducts, stables for royla elephants and elegantly carved pillars. A city whose merchants offered diamonds, pearls, fine silk brocades, horses and according to one Portugese visitor "everything on earth".A 15th century Persian ambassador marvelled, "The city is such that a pupil of the eye has never seen a place like it, and the ear of intelligence has never been informed that there existed anything to equal it in the world".Hampi is the perfect place to relax and explore the ruins. Hire a bike, go for walks, swim in the river, or just chill out in the riverside cafes.

Day 12 Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary

Bordering with Goa, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is an unspoiled, untouched and unexplored treasure of wild life in the state of Karnataka. The sanctuary is one of the largest in the region that spreads over 834 sq. km landscape of undulating streams, swaying bamboos, rich hilly forest with trekking trails and fishing spots. Playing host to the graceful Virnoli Rapids, the magnificent Supa Dam, the sinister Syntheri Rocks, and the river Kali and its tributaries Kaneri and Nagajhari, Dandeli offers the ultimate jungle experience. Nestled amidst sylvan surroundings are the many awe-inspiring wild inhabitants of Dandeli. Sloth bear, bush grail, barking, spotted and mouse deer, elephant, samber, tiger, gaur, panther, wild dog, bison, jackel, langur and giant flying squirrel are some of the common inhabitants of the sanctuary. The sight of a variety of colorful birds like the gray hornbill, great pied hornbill, the Malabar pied hornbill, kingfisher and woodpecker along with reptiles like the crocodile is exciting. Even though sighting animals is no easy affair, Dandeli never allows you to return empty handed. A corale boat (a circular boat, woven with bamboo and lined with buffalo hide) ride down the river Kali at sunset allows immense opportunities to view the wilds of Dandeli. Watch the hornbills returning to their nest, darters drying their plumes by the riverbanks and egrets flying against the saffron sky. The sanctuary offers jeep safaris, bird watching, crocodile sighting trips, fishing and trekking in the jungles and coracle boat rides on the river Kali.

Day 13 Goa

We travel to our beach side accommodation in Goa. Portuguese merchants first landed in Goa in the 15th century, and annexed it soon after. The Portuguese ‘overseas territory’ (not technically a colony) existed for about 450 years, until it was captured by India in 1961. Internationally renowned for its beaches, Goa is visited by hundreds of thousands of foreign and domestic tourists each year, and has become one of the most popular holiday destinations for European travellers. Goan cuisine is unique and recognised throughout India and the world for its fiery punch and strong coastal and Portuguese influencesRelax on a beach, visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the Old Churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and Panjim, the capital. And eat as much of the incredible Goan food as you can—it’s your last chance!

Day 14 Depart Goa

You are free to depart at any time on Day 14, though remember check out from the hotel is 12.00 midday.

Trip Details

Accommodation	Hotels/guesthouses (13 nts), sleeper train (1 nt).
Brochure Notes	Trips starting January 1, 2008 - July 31, 2008 follow 2007 season brochured itinerary.Trips starting August 1, 2008 to April 30, 2009 follow the 2008 brochured itinerary.
Departure	Departs selected Sundays, Aug-Apr
DepEnd	Sun-Sat
Group Size	Max 15, Avg 10
Included Highlights	no inclusions
Local Payment	USD250
Meals Included	No meals are included.
StartFinish	Mumbai to Goa
Transport	Train, local bus, charter bus, jeep, cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw.
Brochure Intro	On this incredible journey you may discover movies stars in Bollywood, buddhist caves in Aurangabad, diamonds in Hyderabad, lost civilizations in Hampi and untouched beaches in Goa. Discover Maharashtran, Andhran, Karnadan and Goan food - enjoy mouth watering curries, fragrant biryanis and incredible seafood.

When can I go?

Start Date	Finish Date	Places Available
2008-10-19	2008-11-01	7+
2008-11-02	2008-11-15	7+
2008-11-30	2008-12-13	7+
2008-12-28	2009-01-10	7+
2009-01-25	2009-02-07	7+
2009-02-22	2009-03-07	7+
2009-03-22	2009-04-04	7+

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