Exploring the Rich Cultural Heritage of the Deccan Plateau

A majestic site situated in a mystical landscape, Hampi Vijayanagara will richly reward the intrepid traveler. Highlights include the Virupaksha temple, the Vittala temple with its iconic stone chariot, the Krishna temple, the Lotus Mahal, the Elephant stables, the Queens’ Bath and the Narashima and Ganesha Monoliths. At least two to three days are required to experience it properly.

The magnificent monuments of Gulbarga, Bidar and Bijapur in northern Karnataka are manifestations of a vibrant culture that flourished under the rule of the Bahmani and Adil Shahi sultans during the 14th to 17th centuries.

While Aurangabad in Maharashtra state is well known as a convenient base from which to reach the celebrated cave-temples at Ajanta and Ellora — designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the city’s tombs and mosques are less visited. Many of these were built in the 17th century, when the city served as the second capital of the Mughal Empire, taking its name from the emperor Aurangzeb, who spent many years here. A few days can be spent visiting these sites, the fort at Daulatabad, the sufi shrines at Khuldabad, and the 16th century mosques, palaces and tombs at Ahmadnagar.

The 12th century temples of Halebidu and Belur, extraordinary achievements of Hoysala artists, are unsurpassed for their profusion of images and dense ornamentation.

Once one of India’s richest princely states renowned for its pearl trade and Golconda diamonds, Hyderabad is today a sprawling metropolis and a thriving IT centre.

Famous for its rock-cut cave temples dedicated to Hinduism and Jainism, Badami was the capital of the Chalukya dynasty. The caves are noted for their intricate carvings and beautiful frescoes. Nearby, the Badami fort offers insights into acient fortification techniques.

Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases a blend of North Indian (Nagara) and South Indian (Dravidian) architectural styles. It served as a ceremonial site for Chalukyan kings and features a complex of Hindu and Jain temples.

Formerly the capital of a rich princely state, Mysuru is a charming city of tree-lined boulevards and palatial buildings, known for its silks and sandalwood. Within a half a day’s drive, visitors can explore a range of heritage monuments, from renowned Hindu and Jain pilgrimage sites, to intricate Hoysala temples and impressive Indo-Saracenic buildings.