Welcome to Badami! Start your day by checking out the magnificent Badami Cave Temples. These ancient rock-cut temples date back to the 6th and 7th centuries and are known for their intricate carvings and stunning architecture. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the serene Agastya Lake and enjoy the beautiful views of the temples from the water. As the evening approaches, head to the Bhutanatha Group of Temples to witness the captivating sunset over the lake.
Agastya Lake Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 200, Time Spent - 1 hour
Bhutanatha Group of Temples: Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Anand Bhavan, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Badami. They offer a wide variety of South Indian breakfast dishes such as idli, vada, dosa, and pongal. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For lunch, try Kamat's Aramane Restaurant, known for its delicious North Indian and South Indian thali meals. They serve a traditional spread of rice, roti, sambar, rasam, curries, and dessert. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For dinner, visit Mookambika Restaurant, a cozy eatery offering authentic North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Their menu features a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including flavorful curries and delectable biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Saturday, August 12: Exploring Badami
Begin your day by visiting the Aihole complex, located about an hour's drive from Badami. This archaeological site is renowned for its ancient temples, including the famous Durga Temple, Lad Khan Temple, and Ravana Phadi Cave Temple. Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient ruins and soak in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, return to Badami and relax by the lake or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets of the town.
Start your day with a wholesome South Indian breakfast at Sri Laxmi Bhavan. This popular restaurant offers a variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 100 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Hotel Ravi Mayur. Known for its authentic North Karnataka cuisine, this restaurant serves flavorful biryanis, curries, and rotis. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Krishna Heritage Restaurant. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the Badami landscape while serving delicious Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Sunday, August 13: Travel to Hampi
Today, embark on a journey to the captivating town of Hampi, located approximately 160 kilometers from Badami. Once you arrive in Hampi, check-in to your hotel and get ready to explore the ancient ruins. Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi Bazaar, where you can explore the remnants of the once-flourishing market. In the afternoon, make your way to the magnificent Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the sun sets, head to Hemakuta Hill to witness a breathtaking panoramic view of the Hampi ruins.
Hampi Bazaar: Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Virupaksha Temple: Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Hemakuta Hill: Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Mango Tree Restaurant. They offer a variety of traditional dishes like idli, dosa, and vada. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For lunch, head to Top Roof Restaurant for a panoramic view of the Hampi landscape. They serve a range of cuisines including Indian, Continental, and Chinese. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a scrumptious meal at Mango Tree Rooftop Restaurant. Enjoy their wide selection of Indian and international dishes while enjoying the stunning views of Hampi. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday, August 14: Hampi Exploration
Spend the day exploring the awe-inspiring ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Vittala Temple, known for its stunning stone chariot and musical pillars. Explore the Royal Enclosure, which houses impressive structures like the Queen's Bath, Hazara Rama Temple, and the Elephant Stables. In the afternoon, head to the Lotus Mahal and Zenana Enclosure to marvel at the architectural marvels. As the day comes to an end, enjoy a picturesque sunset from the top of Matanga Hill.
Royal Enclosure: Estimated Cost - INR 10, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Lotus Mahal and Zenana Enclosure: Estimated Cost - INR 30, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Matanga Hill: Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Mango Tree Restaurant. Indulge in their piping hot idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Gopi's Garden Restaurant. Feast on their mouthwatering thali, which includes a variety of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at The Mango Tree Rooftop Restaurant. Savor their delectable North Indian and Chinese cuisines while enjoying stunning views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Tuesday, August 15: Hampi's Hidden Gems
On your final day in Hampi, explore some of the hidden gems and local favorites. Start your day by visiting the Ugra Narasimha Statue, a magnificent 6.7-meter-tall monolithic sculpture. Discover the stunning architecture of the Hazara Rama Temple, known for its intricate carvings depicting the Ramayana. Take a walk along the Tungabhadra River and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. In the evening, visit the Hampi Archaeological Museum to learn more about the history and culture of this ancient city.
Ugra Narasimha Statue: Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Hampi Archaeological Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 10, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Hampi is The Mango Tree Restaurant, which offers delicious South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch option, head to Shanbhag Café, known for its vegetarian thali meals. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹300 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try the rooftop restaurant at Gopi Guest House, which serves a variety of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about ₹400 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Badami and Hampi, make sure to visit the Badami Fort, nestled on a hill overlooking the town of Badami. This fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and houses ancient temples and sculptures. In Hampi, don't miss the chance to explore the underground temple complex of Hampi's Underground Shiva Temple. This unique temple is located inside a cave and is a lesser-known gem. Lastly, take a detour to Anegundi, a nearby village known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and traditional village life.
For hotel and flight prices in Badami and Hampi, you can check here.