Culture of Oman & Karnataka

Your local guide will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

During your stay in Hyderabad, you’ll be guided on a heritage walk through the atmospheric archways and historical by-lanes of the Old City. Visit The Charminar, a magnificent monument known as the symbol of the city, and venture to the outskirts of town, touring the ancient fort of Golconda and the remains of the tombs of the Qutb Shahi dynasty – two of the most well-maintained monuments in the area.

You will also have the chance to dine at Falaknuma Palace. This magnificnt palace is perched at 2000 ft overlooking the city, and features an unusual blend of Italian and Tudor architecture. It is arguably the most opulent heritage hotel in India. This is saying something!

Explore the sights of Bijapur with your guide (in particular Gol Gumbaz and the archaeological museum) before driving south to Badami.

Gateway to the Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments, Badami is a fascinating city in itself. Capital of the Chalukya empire from the 6th to 12th centuries, Badami’s main attraction is the spectacular red sandstone cliffs with cave temples cut out of the rock. Within the four cave temples, you can discover shrines adorned with intricate carvings depicting religious teachings and mythological events. Amongst the towering cliffs and greenery, the backstreets of Badami are home to old houses, historic ruins, and lovely wooden doorways.

Today you’ll discover the incredible landscape of Hampi. Its peculiar boulders and temples are a true sight to behold.

Hampi, now a laidback village, was once the last capital of Vijayanagar, one of the most significant Hindu kingdoms in India’s history. The area has some incredible ruins which date back to the 14th century and stretch for just over 25 kilometers. More than 500 monuments intermingle with the impressive landscape. During your time here, there will be plenty of time to discover the splendour of the Vijayanagara Empire and the surrounding boulder-strewn landscape with your guide.

Your accommodation, Evolve Back, is ideally placed for exploring the archaeological wonders of Hampi, and a choice of trails allows you to discover different aspects of the site.  The swimming pool and spa at the hotel make it a great place to kick back and relax too. You can even take a coracle tour on the Tungabhadra River.

It is possible to travel from Hampi to Muscat in one day, but it might be easier to break the journey with a night at an airport hotel in Hyderabad. Please talk to one of our travel experts to discuss the options. Assuming you complete the journey in one go (taking the road to Bellary, a 50 min flight to Hyderabad and a three-hour flight to Muscat), you will be in Muscat late afternoon. On arrival, your Oman guide will meet you for the transfer to your beach hotel.

During your time in Oman’s capital, there is plenty of time to explore the different aspects of the city and marvel at the contrasts with India. Muscat stretches along the coast, from well-known sights such as the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – a marvellous feat of modern Islamic architecture – to the souks and seaside promenade of Mutrah. Your guide is your key to discovering the tastiest food, experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals over Arabic coffee and dates, and learning about the area’s fascinating blend of modernity and tradition.

It’s just a short hop on a one-hour flight south to Salalah today. It’s a region of gorgeous scenery, captivating culture, and exciting adventure, but it’s also a great place to relax and reflect on your experiences so far during a stay in a lovely beach hotel.

There is plenty to see and do here if you feel like getting out and about. The coastline is a real highlight, with beautiful turquoise sea and white sand beaches. The ‘zig-zag’ coast road has some epic views of the Indian Ocean skirting around the shore and the frankincense trees scattered amidst the dry countryside.

We recommend a 4×4 trip into the Jebel Qara Mountains while you’re here, taking in the birdlife, natural limestone formations and springs, small villages, and dramatic landscapes en route. Wadi Ayun is especially photogenic, with green and blue hues water surrounded by lush vegetation. Visit the ancient tomb of Job the Prophet, sitting amongst the emerald mountains.