Heart of India: Mumbai, Hampi and Goa

Heart of India: Mumbai, Hampi and Goa

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15 Days From

$4188

$3979

Heart of India: Mumbai, Hampi and Goa

15 Days Starting in MUMBAI and ending in GOA

Visiting: Mumbai, Aurangabad, Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Hyderabad, Vijayapura, Badami, Hampi, Goa

Tour operator:

Wild Frontiers

Tour code:

HOI

Recommended For:

Couples, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 12

Physical rating:

Low, Low

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact Wild Frontiers with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:
English
Activities:

Cycling, Fishing, Sightseeing

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From:
$4188
$3979 (USD) The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$209

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

For the committed Indiaphile Central India has it all. Often overlooked in favour of the more tourist-friendly regions to the north and south, the centre of the country offers a magical mix of experiences well off the beaten track.Starting in Mumbai we take the train to Aurangabad and visit the famous Buddhist caves of Ellora and Ajanta before visiting the jewel of India’s southern crown, Hyderabad. From here we travel to the 15th-17th century sites of Bijapur, Badami and Pattadakal, before heading south to Hampi - the gem of Karnataka’s ruined cities. And after all that – a journey that will have shown a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites - we enjoy our final two nights in Goa.The sites are fascinating, the cuisine delicious and the route will have you feeling like real travellers.

Highlights

  • Explore the stunning ruins of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Ride India’s world-famous train system and experience an overnight railway journey

  • End the tour relaxing on the beaches of Goa and explore its colonial sights

  • See the imposing temples and Buddhist caves at Ajanta and Ellora

  • Discover Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest open-air launderette

  • Visit Golconda Fort and the tombs of the Qutb Shahi Kings in Hyderabad

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Tour Starts In Mumbai

Location: Mumbai

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Fariyas hotel or similar

Meals Included: Dinner

The tour starts this afternoon at the joining hotel. From here we’ll take a wander around this fascinating city, with time at the famous arch that is the ‘Gateway to India’. We’ll end the day with a visit to the Taj, which overlooks the harbour and is a great place for a drink, before having dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2 : In Mumbai

Location: Mumbai

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Fariyas hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we’ll head out to visit the ‘Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat’, otherwise known as the largest non-mechanised laundry facility in the world! Although there are some machines on site, most of the washing is still done by hand in a long series of concrete wash basins, each with its own flogging stone to beat the clothes against. From here we will take a walking tour of the Dharavi slum, the heart of small-scale industry in Mumbai. As we wander through 'India's largest slum' we will witness a wide range of business enterprises and activities: recycling, pottery-making, embroidery, bakery, soap factory, leather tanning, poppadom-making and much more. People from all over India live in Dharavi, making it a cultural melting pot, and a tour through its narrow alleys is quite an adventure. More recently Dharavi has become a focus of artists from all over the world, who in collaboration with the locals have painted murals on the walls of houses, and as we explore Dharavi it’s worth looking out for the abundant street art which the local community is very proud of. We’ll also visit a number of the most famous buildings Mumbai is noted for, including Chhatrapati Shivajitrain train station (formerly Victoria Terminus), the Mahalakshmi temple, the Rajabai Clock Tower and library, and the colonial general post office.

Day 3 : Mumbai - Aurangabad

Location: Mumbai, Aurangabad

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Lemon Tree or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we’ll transfer to Mumbai station and take the day train to Aurangabad. The journey should take around 8 hours, offering us a chance to take in the scenery and meet the local people. Arriving by the late afternoon we’ll transfer to our hotel for dinner.

Day 4 : Aurangabad - Ajanta Caves - Aurangabad

Location: Aurangabad, Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Lemon Tree or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we’ll drive north for a couple of hours to visit the Ajanta Caves. Predating those at Ellora, the Ajanta Caves are entirely Buddhist and famous for their exquisite paintings. After the decline in Buddhism, the caves were forgotten only to be ‘rediscovered’ in 1819 by a group of British soldiers out on a hunting trip. Their beauty was soon unveiled and they now represent one of Maharashtra’s best-known sites. In the afternoon we will drive back to Aurangabad where the rest of the day will be at your leisure.

Day 5 : Aurangabad - Ellora Caves - Overnight Train To Hyderabad

Location: Aurangabad, Ellora Caves

Accommodation: Overnight train

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we’ll visit the Ellora Caves, a truly amazing series of underground temples, some with extraordinary sculptures, built between the 7th and 11th centuries AD. From here we’ll travel back to Aurangabad, stopping on the way to visit Devagiri-Daulatabad fort, an imposing structure built by King Bhillam of the Yadava dynasty in the late 12th century. Its strategic location on a large rock outcrop was so impregnable that it was never taken by force. We’ll then have an early dinner before boarding our overnight train to Hyderabad.

Day 6 : In Hyderabad

Location: Hyderabad

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Taj Banjara hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arriving early into Hyderabad we will transfer to our hotel for the chance to freshen up. Once in the ‘city of pearls’ we’ll walk around the Old City and the 16th century Charminar, which houses Hyderabad’s oldest mosque. We’ll also explore the bazaars around the Charminar selling all manner of items from bangles to budgerigars and look around the Mecca Masjid which can house up to 10,000 worshippers. Tonight we’ll have drinks at the historic Taj Falaknuma Palace, without doubt one of the most opulent hotels on the subcontinent. The former residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad, the hotel exudes the elegance and gilded grandeur of a bygone age. Boasting Venetian chandeliers, priceless art, Japanese Gardens and a library of rare distinction, the hotel affords us a truly unique insight into the lives of one of India’s richest dynasties.

Day 7 : In & Around Hyderabad

Location: Hyderabad

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Taj Banjara hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning we head out of town to visit Golconda Fort, the capital of Telangana until 1590 when a terrible drought forced the people of the city to move and the founding of Hyderabad. We then return to town, stopping en route to wander around the serenely set tombs of the Qutb Shahi Kings. This afternoon/evening you will be free to wander and discover more of this fascinating city for yourself. Dinner tonight will be at your own expense.

Day 8 : Hyderabad - Bijapur

Location: Hyderabad, Vijayapura

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Madhuvan hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we’ll say goodbye to this glorious city and drive to the neighbouring state of Karnataka, and on to Bijapur with its dominating Islamic architecture. The drive will take most of the day but we should have a bit of time on arrival to stretch our legs and view some of the local sites before dinner.

Day 9 : Bijapur - Badami

Location: Vijayapura, Badami

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Heritage Resort Badami or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we’ll explore the magnificent Golgumbaz which is the town’s largest monument with an imposing 38 metre diameter dome – second only to St Peter’s Basilica in Rome! Climbing the narrow stairs brings us out onto the whispering gallery, where secrets whispered into the wall are directed across the dome to listening ears. Also in this sleepy town is the beautiful Ibrahim Rouza, which is considered by many to be one of the most finely proportioned Islamic monuments in India. The focus here is not the size but the elegance and detail. The 24 metre high minarets are said to have inspired those of the Taj Mahal. Adil Shah II built the monuments for his queen at the height of Bijapur’s prosperity in the 17th century; though sadly he died before his Queen was laid to rest alongside his family. Following lunch we’ll drive on to Badami for the night.

Day 10 : In Badami

Location: Badami

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Heritage Resort Badami or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we’ll visit the wonderful 5th century temples at Aiholé before moving on to the world heritage site of Pattadakal. In the afternoon we will have plenty of time to enjoy the sensational rock carved temples at Badami.

Day 11 : Badami - Hampi

Location: Badami, Hampi

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Hampi Boulders or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arguably saving the best until last, this morning we will drive to Anegundi – the ruined fortified stronghold across the river from Hampi. After checking into our hotel we’ll have a bit of time to relax in this often overlooked village, just a stone’s throw from the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi. From here we’ll take our first look around this incredible place.

Day 12 : In Hampi

Location: Hampi

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Hampi Boulders or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we explore the scattered ruins of the 15th century city of Vijayanagar. We will visit the highlight of the Hampi ruins, the Vittala Temple, as well as the other main sights including the Elephant Stables and the Lotus Mahal, before heading back into town. Having lunch at a beautiful spot by the river we’ll escape the heat and relax, after which the rest of the afternoon and evening will be free to explore at your leisure. Dinner tonight will be at your own expense.

Day 13 : Hampi - Goa

Location: Hampi, Goa

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Beleza by the Beach Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we say goodbye to Hampi and travel west to the coastline of the Arabian Sea and Goa. This will be a long day on the road, but we’ll break it up along the way and the relaxed atmosphere that Goa offers at the end of the journey will make it all worthwhile.

Day 14 : In Goa

Location: Goa

Accommodation: Resort

Accommodation Name: Beleza by the Beach Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we’ll take a guided tour of Goa Velha (old Goa), visiting numerous sites of interest including the UNESCO listed Portuguese churches of Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, the church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Chapel of Santa Catarina. After lunch the afternoon will be free to do as you choose. Most people like to relax by swimming in the pool or by taking a dip in the sea nearby, but there’s plenty more besides. The town houses an arts centre as well as offering options for cycling, fishing and yoga. Tonight we will have a farewell dinner at a lovely local restaurant.

Day 15 : Tour Ends In Goa

Location: Goa

Meals Included: Breakfast

The tour ends after lunch in Goa, with some free time this morning and this afternoon to relax or visit other sites of interest. Those on the suggested group flights will transfer to the airport in time for this evenings flight.

What's Included

  • MEALS

    14 x Breakfasts, 13 x Lunches, 12 x Dinners

  • GROUP SIZE

    Maximum: 12

  • TRANSPORT

     On this tour we will use a day and an overnight train, mini-bus coasters and auto rickshaws.

  • CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS

    Contributions to carbon offset & tree planting projects for all bookings

  • EXPERT TEAM

    The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate

  • ACCOMMODATION

    All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary

  • ENTRANCE FEES

    All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary

  • FITNESS RATING

    Low

What's Not Included

We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatoryTips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documentsInternational .Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UKAirport .Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs

Visas

Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.com 

For this tour UK passport holders currently require a visa for India.

Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.

Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.

Key Aspects to Consider

Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as many of the activities are optional.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    For this tour UK passport holders currently require a visa for India.

    Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    12

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 2002

  • Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?

    In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Pat Malloy  

Pat Malloy

A wonderful and varied tour of lesser known but ve

A wonderful and varied tour of lesser known but very impressive area of India.

Andrea Carnegie-Smith  

Andrea Carnegie-Smith

<p>This company excels. Fantastic locations, brill

<p>This company excels. Fantastic locations, brilliantly organised trip that made for wonderful travel experiences in remote locations. Very warm &amp; welcoming accommodations, all very Covid aware and compliant. Top company.</p>

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Dates & Availability

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Saturday - Saturday

Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
$4188 $3979 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$209 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Wild Frontiers allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wild frontiers charges.

    Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 51 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

  • Wild Frontiers' COVID Promise

    You will have the right to transfer without any transfer fee, from any of our trips at ANY time if your trip is not Covid Viable (see below).*
    We will not ask you to pay your final balance if your trip is not yet Covid Viable.
    If your trip is not Covid Viable, by 30 days prior to departure at the latest, we will cancel your holiday and you can either transfer your funds to another departure or have a refund.**


    We will only consider a trip Covid Viable*** if pre-departure it meets all of the following criteria:

    There is no national lockdown or ban on foreign travel for the period when your trip is due to depart.
    Destinations on the tour must not be on the UK’s Red List. ****
    No destinations visited on the tour have in place any significant COVID-19 restrictions for travellers.
    Tourist visas (if required) are available.
    There is reliable airline access to/from the start/end of the trip.
    Following an assessment by both Wild Frontiers and our local partners we are confident that your trip is able to run in both a safe and enjoyable manner.*****




    ** If you were originally booked to travel before 30 April 2020 and transferred to a later date, or if you have a tailor-made booking, there may be some irrecoverable costs which we cannot refund. Please speak to us and we will be able to advise you if this is the case for your booking.
    ***Since our HQ is in London, Covid Viable status for our Group Tours will be assessed on UK-based travellers. However we are fully aware that many of our clients live in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. As such, when we deem a trip to now be Covid Viable, everyone booked will have a chance to review their own personal situation before deciding whether or not to remain booked on the trip. Anyone wishing to, will have the option to transfer without fees to another trip at this time. For tailor made bookings, we may also able to consider additional countries’ travel advice when deciding if a trip is Viable. Please discuss this with us at the time of booking.
    **** This relates to bookings from UK clients only. We may operate trips to destinations which the British FCDO advise against travel for Covid reasons. If this is the case, anyone wishing to will have the option to cancel with a refund or transfer to another trip. In some cases we may choose to offer a tour to a Red destination but these will be at both clients’ and Wild Frontiers’ discretion and will be subject to alternative conditions to be discussed on an ad hoc basis.
    *****If a destination, that we have deemed to be Covid Viable, subsequently fails any aspect of the criteria for two consecutive weeks, you will have the right under our Covid Promise to transfer without any fees.

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