Road Trip from Vempalli to Kolhapur: Exploring the Cultural Gems of South and West India

Day 1: Vempalli to Kadapa

Vempalli to Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh on June 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Sri Annapurna Mess, Vempalli

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast featuring dosas and filter coffee, perfect fuel for your journey ahead.
INR150, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Kadapa

A scenic 1.5 hour drive covering approximately 65 km through Andhra Pradesh's rural heartland.
INR0 (self-drive), 1h30m

9:30am

Visit Gandikota Fort, Kadapa

Explore the breathtaking 'Grand Canyon of India' and the historic Gandikota Fort, featuring stunning rock formations and views of the Pennar River.
INR20, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Biryani House, Kadapa

Enjoy authentic Andhra-style biryani, known for its aromatic spices and flavorful rice preparations.
INR250, 1h0m

1:30pm

Drive to Anantapur

Head northwest on the highway for about 90 km, approximately 2 hours by car, entering the Anantapur district.
INR0 (self-drive), 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit Lepakshi Temple, Anantapur

Discover the famous 16th-century Veerabhadra Temple known for its exquisite Vijayanagara architecture and hanging pillar.
INR30, 1h30m

5:15pm

Evening Tea at Lepakshi Local Cafe

Relax with a cup of chai and some local snacks while soaking in the ambience around the temple complex.
INR50, 0h30m

6:00pm

Drive to Hyderabad

Drive to Hyderabad (approx 3.5 hours, 190 km) to rest overnight and prepare for next day sightseeing.
INR0 (self-drive), 3h30m

9:30pm

Dinner at Paradise Restaurant, Hyderabad

Enjoy the iconic Hyderabadi biryani and kebabs in one of the city's renowned eateries open till late night.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 2: Hyderabad Sightseeing

Hyderabad, Telangana on June 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Traditional South Indian breakfast featuring idli, vada, and filter coffee at your hotel to start your day fresh.
INR200, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit Charminar

Explore the iconic 16th-century mosque and monument that stands at the heart of Hyderabad, perfect for photography and a cultural experience.
INR50, 1h0m

9:45am

Walk through Laad Bazaar

Shop for traditional bangles, pearls and local crafts in the colorful Laad Bazaar near Charminar.
INR0 (shopping optional), 1h0m

11:00am

Visit Golconda Fort

Tour the vast and historic Golconda Fort known for its acoustic effects and panoramic city views; open from 9am to 5:30pm.
INR25, 2h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Shadab Restaurant

Savor authentic Hyderabadi dishes such as haleem and kebabs in a popular local dining spot.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Salar Jung Museum

Explore one of the largest art museums in India, showcasing a vast collection from around the globe; open 10am-5pm except Fridays.
INR30, 2h0m

5:00pm

Evening at Hussain Sagar Lake

Relax with a boat ride at the lake and view the iconic Buddha statue; the best time is during sunset.
INR100, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ohri’s Tansen

End your day with a delicious mix of Mughlai and North Indian cuisine at this elegant restaurant open until 10:30pm.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 3: Hyderabad to Kolhapur

Hyderabad, Telangana to Kolhapur, Maharashtra on June 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fill up with a quick breakfast including parathas and tea before the long drive to Kolhapur.
INR200, 0h45m

7:45am

Drive to Kolhapur

Start the approximately 8-hour drive covering about 560 km through scenic Western Ghats region towards Kolhapur.
INR0 (self-drive, tolls applicable), 8h0m

4:00pm

Check-in and relax at Kolhapur Hotel

Check into your hotel and relax after the long drive, preparing for evening exploration.
Varies by hotel, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit Mahalaxmi Temple

Visit this famous temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, open until 9pm, known for its intricate architecture and spirituality.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Explore Rankala Lake

Relax by the lakefront promenade and enjoy evening snacks from local vendors in a lively setting.
INR50, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Jyoti Mahal

Dine on Kolhapuri cuisine famous for its spicy mutton and tambada rassa, providing a hearty end to your day.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 4: Kolhapur Local

Kolhapur, Maharashtra on June 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a filling Maharashtrian breakfast featuring poha and chai.
INR150, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit New Palace Museum

Tour this historic royal palace showcasing the heritage and history of Kolhapur's ruling family; open 9am-5pm.
INR40, 1h30m

10:30am

Shopping for Kolhapuri Chappals

Shop for famous handcrafted leather Kolhapuri chappals and other local handicrafts in the city market.
Depends on purchase, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Panchavati

Enjoy traditional Kolhapuri thali with authentic spicy gravies and rice dishes.
INR350, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Jyotiba Temple

Take a short drive to visit the famous hill temple dedicated to Jyotiba, set amidst serene surroundings.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary (Optional)

If time permits, enjoy a nature getaway exploring fauna and flora; sanctuary timings 9am-5pm, about 40 km from Kolhapur.
INR50, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Malgudi Restaurant

Try further Kolhapuri specialties like Pandhara Rassa in a cozy atmosphere to conclude your trip.
INR350, 1h0m