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Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Heritage
Destinations
India

Journey from Mumbai's Bollywood scene to the historic temples of Hampi via the Old Town of Hyderabad and the palaces of Bangalore. Our 11-day luxurious Central India Cultural Highlights itinerary takes you throughout the fascinating heart of this incredible, diverse country. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Ellora Caves: This UNESCO-designated complex of magnificent Hindu and Buddhist temples and caves was cut from basaltic cliffs and known for its remarkable architecture and dramatic ornamentation.
  • Palatial Hotels: Stay where over a century of India's elite have stayed. Experience the lavish royal accommodations bedecked with vaulted ceilings, onyx columns, hand-woven silk carpets, and the finest collections of furniture.
  • Mumbai: This sprawling and diverse cosmopolitan has the world's most expensive home as well as Asia's biggest slums, and everything in-between. A true cultural melting-pot, the city offers British-era colonial buildings, markets, modern architecture, religious enclaves, museums, galleries, theaters, beaches, and more.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Mumbai

Arrive in vibrant Mumbai, home of India’s exciting film and arts culture, and check into your luxury suite at the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower. You may rub shoulders with royalty and celebrities here, who are frequent guests of the palatial hotel. Settle in, adjust to your new surroundings, have a delicious dinner, and rest for your next few busy days.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: Located next to the Gate of India on the harbourside, this hotel provides guests with direct city access and water views.

History: This beautiful old building was completed at the turn of the 20th century and has housed dignitaries, royalty and VIPs for more than a hundred years.

Service: This iconic establishment has a long history of excellent service, with personal butlers assigned to guests for round-the-clock care.

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Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This spectacular hotel is located on the exclusive Marine Drive, with stunning panoramas of the ocean and the glimmering shoreline.

History: Channeling high-end glamor and elegance, the hotel opened its adorned doors for guests in 2004.

Service: To provide the ultimate in customer service, the hotel offers a 24-hour spa, butler service, a concierge, travel desk and a business center.

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The Oberoi Mumbai Preferred Hotel

Day 2

Mumbai

Rise early this morning and get a glimpse of the city before dawnbreak. Witness a hive of activity as merchants, fishermen, deliverymen zip around in preparation for the day. Visit the Prince of Wales Museum, the city’s main museum, housing 50,000 exhibits of ancient Indian history. Next, head to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Station, and the upmarket area of Malabar Hill.

Mumbai
Mumbai

Day 3

Mumbai

Today, you’ll take in some of Mumbai’s more modern arts, starting with the elegant National Gallery of Modern Art, and followed by a visit to the ever-flamboyant Indian take on Hollywood, Bollywood. Bollywood is the largest film producer in India, and indeed among the world’s largest as well.

Day 4

Aurangabad

Leave Mumbai today, embarking on a 6-hour drive to Aurangabad, a tourist hub filled with historical charm and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit one such site today, the Ellora Caves, which are known for representing the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture.

Hotel Options
About

Step into the Taj Residency Aurangabad, a sprawling, luxurious palace of a hotel located near the city center. The hotel features five acres of mani- cured gardens and 63 rooms and suites, all of which overlook either the pool or the garden, and each of which features climate control, in-room safes, plush, comfortable beds, modern décor, internet access, and ensuite bathrooms.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Aurangabad
Aurangabad

Day 5

Hampi

Head to Hampi today, home to the ruins of the ancient Vijayanagara Empire, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll fly to Hubli Airport and then drive three hours to Hampi. Check into your room at one of our two recommended luxury hotels, Hampi Boulders or The Hyatt Place. Once settled in, take in the exotic smells and sights of Paan Supaari Street, dedicated to the Indian traditional snack of betel leaf filled with a mixture of chopped or coarsely ground areca nuts and spices. Finish off with a visit to Matanga Hill, famous for its stunning views.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Design: The palatial architecture and regal interior furnishings are certain to make guests feel like royalty.

World-Class Service: Whether it’s the expertly led walks around the nearby ruins, the personal butler for suites and villas, or a private candlelit dinner served beside poolside, the service and attention to detail are guaranteed to amaze.

Spa: Reflections of ancient Indian royalty don’t end with the resort’s aesthetics and food, and instead extend to the traditional Ayurvedic wellness treatments available at the spa.

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Evolve Back Hampi Preferred Hotel

Day 6

Hampi

Take a peek into India’s past today with a tour of Hampi’s temples, many of which are decorated in fascinating ancient motifs and elaborate frescoes. Finally, if you happen to be visiting in November, take part in the Utsav Festival, Hampi’s largest festival, featuring music, dance and puppet performances, as well as fireworks and more.

Hampi
Hampi

Day 7

Bangalore

Take off for Bangalore today, well-known as the country’s information technology capital, and India’s third-largest city. Transfer to your hotel and become acquainted with your new surroundings.

Hotel Options
About

Set amidst twenty acres of gardens, this luxury hotel in central Bangalore was the city’s first hotel. Constructed in 1887, the Taj West End has been meticulously preserved throughout the decades, and remains a fine example of colonial-era luxury, opulence, and hospitality.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

For a glimpse of life as royalty, stay at the grand, palatial fortress that is the Leela. Set within nine acres of landscaped, manicured gardens punctuated with stone sculptures, lotus lily ponds, and waterfalls, each of the Leela’s 357 rooms feature broadband internet and wi-fi, a mini bar, in-room safe, satellite television, and plush beds.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 8

Bangalore

Explore Bangalore today, on a tour that takes you to Lal Bagh, a botanical garden with India's largest collection of tropical plants; Dodda Basavana Gudi, also known as the Bull Temple, representing a sacred Hindu demi-god, and Bangalore Palace. Spend the rest of your day relaxing in the palatial surroundings of your hotel, or exploring the city as you like. 

Bangalore
Bangalore

Day 9

Hyderabad

Today you’re off to Hyderabad, where you’ll check in to your historic suite at the Taj Faluknama Palace. Get acquainted with the city by paying a visit to two of the city’s most important sites: the ruins of the capital of ancient Kingdom of Golkonda and one of the city’s oldest mosques, Mecca Masjid.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This gorgeous palace is located 2,000 feet above Hyderabad; its lofty position in the clouds earning it the nickname “mirror of the sky”.

History: Falaknuma Palace was commissioned by a Hyderabadi nobleman back in the 19th century.

Service: Superlative service is provided by the Taj’s butlers, on hand 24/7 to assist guests.

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Taj Faluknama Palace Preferred Hotel

Day 10

Hyderabad

After a leisurely breakfast this morning, take a stroll through Hyderabad’s historic Public Gardens, located in the heart of the city. These gardens are home to not only the State Legislature, but also an open-air theater. Wind up your time in Hyderabad with a tour of its Old City, before turning in for the night at your palatial hotel.

Hyderabad
Hyderabad

Day 11

Departure

On your final day of your Central India itinerary, fly to Mumbai and check-in for your flight to your next destination.

Suggested Hotels For Days 1–3

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower
Preferred Hotel

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower

For over a century, the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower has been the haunt of India's elite, and has played host to princes, kings, maharajas, presidents, CEOs and countless celebrities. Built in 1903, it is an architectural marvel, bringing together Moorish, Oriental, and Florentine styles. Inside, the hotel showcases contemporary Indian art framed by vaulted alabaster ceilings, onyx columns, graceful archways, hand-woven silk carpets, crystal chandeliers, and an eclectic collection of furniture. There are 519 rooms and 46 opulent suites with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India. The Taj's excellent dining options include Golden Dragon - voted the best Chinese restaurant in Mumbai; Masala Kraft - Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist; Souk, which has stunning views of Mumbai from its rooftop location and serves Middle Eastern cuisine; The Zodiac Grill, where a special menu is offered for each month's star sign, and the stellar Wasabi By Morimoto - Mumbai's first contemporary Japanese restaurant, helmed by the Iron Chef himself. There is also the Harbour Bar, Mumbai's first drinking establishment, and the Insomnia nightclub, filled with "Bombabes" and their millionaire boyfriends. Guests can unwind at the luxurious spa, the fitness center, equipped with cardiovascular and weight training equipment, steam shower and sauna and swimming pool, or with a game of badminton, squash, tennis or billiards. The hotel also has a private yacht available for day trips on the Arabian Sea or to nearby Elephanta Island. There is a business center with wired and wireless Internet access, secretarial services and cell phones and laptops for hire. Wi-fi available throughout the hotel. The Taj Mahal Palace is 45 minutes from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM).

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The Oberoi Mumbai
Preferred Hotel

The Oberoi Mumbai

Bask in the ultimate luxury at The Oberoi Mumbai, a spectacular building with incredible ocean views and a front-row seat for the Queen’s Necklace, the name for the golden crescent of lights that glimmer on the shoreline after the sun sets. From the moment guests arrive on the spectacular grounds, they are whisked away into a world of elegance and luxury. Inside the lobby, floor-to-ceiling windows offer unparalleled views of the ocean and the incredible shoreline. And within each incredibly-decorated guest room, guests may marvel at the views as they enjoy personalised butler services. The hotel also features a variety of world-class restaurants serving delicious cuisine from around the world, as well as a state-of-the-art spa, fitness center and temperature-controlled, outdoor pool in a private courtyard.

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Suggested Hotel For Day 4

Vivanta by Taj - Aurangabad

Vivanta by Taj - Aurangabad

Step into the Taj Residency Aurangabad, a sprawling, luxurious palace of a hotel located near the city center. The hotel features five acres of mani- cured gardens and 63 rooms and suites, all of which overlook either the pool or the garden, and each of which features climate control, in-room safes, plush, comfortable beds, modern décor, internet access, and ensuite bathrooms. Amenities include a large, centrally located pool, dining facili- ties, a business center, and the same, world-class service that made the Taj famous. The Taj Aurangabad is located around 9 kilometers from the airport and railway station, an easy, 15 minute drive away. In addition, the hotel lies a short drive from the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Allora and the Ajanta Caves.

Suggested Hotel For Days 5–6

Evolve Back Hampi
Preferred Hotel

Evolve Back Hampi

Just as Hampi, 14th Century Vijayanagara Empire’s capital, was once described as “the best-provided city in the world,” the Evolve Back, Hampi resort can arguably be regarded as housing “the world’s best-pampered guests.”  Surrounded by rugged forests and boulder-strewn plains, the resort’s glorious architectural and interior design are inspired by the royal flavor of that ancient city, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and readily accessible for guests of the Evolve Back.  When not exploring the ruins on a guided walk, guests can take a dip in the infinity pool, lounge by the family pool, relax at the Ayurveda spa, or lose themselves in a book with a cup of famous Sidapur coffee in hand. Four types of accommodations boast balconies overlooking the natural splendor of the area, private pools, en-suite Jacuzzis, and grand bathrooms. Exploring the ancient civilization’s history and culture is not limited to the heritage site as the resort’s two restaurants offer dishes inspired by the empire’s cuisines. For visitors who want a more private experience, customized meals are served by personal butlers beside the hotel’s infinity pool or even their suite’s private pool. 

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Suggested Hotels For Days 7–8

The Leela Bangalore

The Leela Bangalore

For a glimpse of life as royalty, stay at the grand, palatial fortress that is the Leela. Set within nine acres of landscaped, manicured gardens punctuated with stone sculptures, lotus lily ponds, and waterfalls, each of the Leela’s 357 rooms feature broadband internet and wi-fi, a mini bar, in-room safe, satellite television, and plush beds. Dining options include the Javamar, an opulent, luxurious eatery that offers traditional northern and southern Indian cuisine; Citrus, a crisply decorated, vibrant restaurant that serves Mediterranean fare, including pastas and wood-fired pizzas; Zen, a tastefully designed venue serving Asian specialties, including dim sum, yakitori, and many others; and the Library Bar, an outdoor bar set in a plush, opulent country-club setting. Amenities include a fully-equipped spa, gym, and outdoor swimming pool. The Leela Palace Bangalore lies 28 miles (45 kilometers) from Bangalore airport (BLR).

Taj West End

Taj West End

Set amidst twenty acres of gardens, this luxury hotel in central Bangalore was the city’s first hotel. Constructed in 1887, the Taj West End has been meticulously preserved throughout the decades, and remains a fine example of colonial-era luxury, opulence, and hospitality. Each of the Taj’s ninety-one rooms feature twenty-four hour room service, electronic safes, mini-bar, a plasma television with satellite channels, telephones with an international calling capability, and queen size beds. On-site restaurants include Blue Ginger, which serves refined, elegant versions of classic Vietnamese food within a tasteful, atmospheric setting; Masala Klub, which features light, refreshing twists on traditional north and south Indian dishes; Mynt, which offers refreshing, authentic Mediterranean cuisine; and Blue Bar, an open air bar located in the gardens adjacent to Blue Ginger. Other amenities include a business center, a fully-equipped fitness center, swimming pools, and a full-service spa. The Taj West End is located approximately 45 minutes away from Bangalore airport (BLR).

Suggested Hotel For Days 9–10

Taj Faluknama Palace
Preferred Hotel

Taj Faluknama Palace

Built in the 19th century as a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries, the Faluknama was once one of India's finest palaces; today, it is one of the country's most luxurious hotels. Local artifacts, Italian marble, and fixtures & fittings from around the globe make the Taj Faluknama a fascinating attraction in and of itself. Its sixty rooms and suites combine contemporary amenities, such as high-speed internet access, in-room safes, plush beds, and DVD players, with classic design features including hardwood floors and colorful, hand-painted walls. The Royal Presidential Suite, the most luxurious of these rooms, even has its own private swimming pool. The Taj’s culinary options include Adaa, which serves slow cooked, traditional Hyderabadi cuisine such as biryani, or rice slow-cooked with meat, vegetables, spices, and saffron; Celeste, an Italian and Mediterranean eatery that is open all day; Jade Verandah, a breakfast only venue; and a hookah lounge and a poolside bar. Amenities include a spa, pool, library and billiards room, as well as an in-house historian who will walk guests through the property's fascinating history.

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