5-Day Cultural and Coastal Journey: Badami Caves, Hampi, and Gokarna Beach

Day 1: Explore Badami Caves

Badami, India on April 17, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Shri Basaveshwara Hotel

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast with fresh idlis and vadas, setting the tone for your cultural exploration.
INR120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Badami Cave Temples

Explore the famous rock-cut cave temples dating back to the 6th century, renowned for their intricate carvings and stunning architecture. The caves open from 9:00AM to 6:00PM.
INR30, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Mayura Chalukya

Sample Karnataka cuisine in a serene setting while resting between sightseeing adventures.
INR350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Agastya Lake and Badami Fort

Stroll around the scenic Agastya Lake and hike up to the historic Badami Fort for panoramic views.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at your hotel or take a casual evening walk through Badami town

Experience local life and shop for souvenirs at the local market.
Varies, 1-2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Taj Residency Restaurant

Enjoy a mix of local and international dishes to end your day on a delicious note.
INR400, 1 hour

Day 2: Day Trip to Aihole and Pattadakal

Badami Region, India on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Grab a nutritious South Indian meal to fuel a day of temple hopping.
INR150, 45 minutes

8:30AM

Travel to Aihole

Drive approximately 30 minutes to reach Aihole, an ancient temple complex known as the 'Cradle of Indian Architecture'.
Transport cost approx. INR500, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Explore Aihole Temples

Visit over 100 temples including the famous Durga Temple with detailed carvings and vibrant history. Site is open 9:00AM–6:00PM.
INR20, 2 hours

11:30AM

Proceed to Pattadakal

Short 20-minute drive to Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning Chalukyan architecture.
Transport cost approx. INR300, 20 minutes

12:00PM

Visit Pattadakal Temples

Explore the main group of Hindu and Jain temples, emphasizing the fusion style of northern and southern Indian architecture.
INR40, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at local restaurant

Enjoy a simple but tasty Kannada meal near Pattadakal.
INR250, 1 hour

3:30PM

Return to Badami

Rest and relax at your hotel upon arrival.
Transport cost INR500, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Mayura Chalukya

Try some more regional specialties such as jowar roti and spicy vegetable curries.
INR400, 1 hour

Day 3: Travel To and Explore Hampi

Hampi, India on April 19, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a filling vegetarian breakfast before a longer journey.
INR150, 45 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Hampi

Drive approx. 3 hours to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of magnificent ruins.
Transport cost approx. INR1200, 3 hours

11:30AM

Check-in and Lunch at Mango Tree Restaurant

Enjoy contemporary Indian dishes with a view of the Tungabhadra River.
INR350, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Virupaksha Temple

Explore this stunning temple, still active and dating to Hampi's Vijayanagara empire, open 8:00AM–5:30PM.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Vittala Temple and Stone Chariot

Spend the afternoon marveling at Vijayanagara architecture, including the iconic stone chariot, open 9:00AM–6:00PM.
INR40, 3 hours

6:00PM

Sunset at Hemakuta Hill

Head to Hemakuta Hill for a breathtaking sunset over ancient temple ruins.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Gopi Guesthouse Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed meal offering Indian and continental dishes near your hotel.
INR400, 1 hour

Day 4: Travel to Gokarna

Gokarna, India on April 20, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at guesthouse

Quick breakfast before check-out and departure for coastal Gokarna.
INR150, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Gokarna Beach

Drive approx. 4 hours along scenic routes to the famous Gokarna beach area.
Transport cost approx. INR1500, 4 hours

12:30PM

Check-in and lunch at Namaste Cafe

Savor fresh seafood and international cuisine right on the beach.
INR450, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax and Swim at Om Beach

Spend your afternoon swimming and relaxing on Om Beach, known for its distinctive shape and calm waters.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Visit Gokarna Town

Explore the peaceful town, visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple (open 5:00AM-12:00PM and 4:00PM-9:00PM).
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Kannada Restaurant

Experience authentic local Karnataka flavors with coastal influences.
INR400, 1 hour

Day 5: Beach Day and Local Culture

Gokarna Beach, India on April 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 1987

Enjoy fresh juices and healthy breakfast options before beach activities.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Paradise Beach and Half Moon Beach

Take a short boat ride or hike to these quieter beaches for swimming and sunbathing with fewer crowds.
Boat ride approx. INR200, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Prema Restaurant

Relax over a meal featuring fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes.
INR450, 1 hour

2:30PM

Join a Yoga session at the beach

Attend a late afternoon yoga class to unwind and connect with the serene surroundings.
INR500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sunset viewing at Kudle Beach

Watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea from this popular and scenic beach.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Beach Shack

Cap off your trip with a casual meal and chilled drinks right on the sand.
INR350, 1 hour