The Contrasting Culture of Oman & Karnataka

Day 1 Depart the UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Hyderabad.

Days 2-4  Hyderabad 

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!

Day 5  Gulbarga via The Monuments of Bidar

Today depart Hyderabad for the journey west into Karnataka State. Discover the fascinating monuments left behind by the Bahmani and Barid Shahi Sultans at Bidar. Inside the old walls of the city, you'll wander through the grand 15th-century fort, home to some of the most exquisite carvings and artwork. Continue to Gulbarga in the afternoon, known for its many dilapidated forts, temples and mausoleums. Gulbarga's heritage is rich andhas an abundant legacy of Islamic art. 

Day 6 Gulbarga to Bijapur

After exploring the attractions of Gulbarga, including its incredible 15-towered fort, you will travel south through central Karnataka to Bijapur. Now officially known as Vijayapura, but commonly Bijapur, the city is home to an abundance of medieval palaces, forts, and mausoleums. During the Adil Shahi reign from the 15th to 17th centuries, it witnessed some of the greatest wealth and power of any Asian kingdom at the time. Within its fortified walls, the main attraction now is the Gol Gumbaz Tomb, built-in 1659, but there are other sights to explore too.

Day 7 The Fascinating sights of Bijapur and Badami

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. 

Days 8-10 Hampi  Boulders and Temples to Behold 

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. 

Day 11  Karnataka to Oman

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.

Days 12 & 13 Muscat & Beach

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.

Day 14-16 Far-Flung Salalah

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 4x4 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.

Day 17 Fly Home

Depart Salalah for your flight back to the UK.

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace, and style. Get in touch to find out how this suggested itinerary could inspire your adventure.

Your bespoke proposal with Experience Travel Group will include:

• International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
• Accommodation as described
• Privately guided tours and transfers
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Original Experience Travel Group "signature" experiences 
• Full financial protection (ABTA and ATOL bonding.) 
• 24-hour in-country backup while away
• Your dedicated travel expert in the UK