Colours of Karnataka

It’s palaces and temples galore in Karnataka’s state capital, where the influence of the British Raj lives on in the Victorian architecture, wide avenues and colourful rose gardens. Take a Bangalore city tour, visiting the Vidhan Souda, an imposing white building that houses the state Legislative Assembly. Stroll through Lal Bagh Gardens, filled with the wonderful scent of the red roses that bloom there throughout the year, and call in at the Palace of Tipu Sultan to admire the carved pillars and elaborate wooden ceilings.

Swing by the riverine island of Srirangapatna and admire the dominating Ranganathaswamy Temple before continuing on to Mysore. The sweet aromas of jasmine, musk and rose fill the air in this cultural and academic hub, the location for many incense factories. An easy-going city, Mysore’s main attraction is the striking Maharaja’s Palace, stuffed with stained glass and gilded archways, carved wooden doors, mahogany ceilings and glittering mosaics. For a unique Flight Centre experience, meet your guide and walk through the heart of Mysore, learning about the fascinating past of this colonial city, and how the influence of the British shaped its history.

Your next stop is Kabini, named after the forest-lined river that winds its way through the region. Nearby is the magnificent Nagarhole National Park, one of the best parks in India for wildlife viewing, particularly herbivores, and home to one of the largest population of Asiatic elephants in the world. Search for leopards and tigers on a jeep safari through the forests, swamps and valleys, and look out for over 250 species of birds.

Breathe in the aromas of coffee and cardamom in picturesque Coorg. A relaxing town surrounded by hills and forests, Coorg is small and oldy woldy, with a bustling bazaar. Cycle through the local villages, tour the coffee plantations and explore the surrounding hills and forests looking for birds. Coorg’s elevation at 1525 metres means it is blessed with a cool and refreshing climate, making it the perfect spot for a touch of hiking, or indeed just wandering along the pathways and watching the world go by.

Cross the state border into northern Kerala, known as Malabar. Here you’ll find empty beaches fringed with coconut plantations and spice gardens, and miles and miles of tranquil waterways. Head to laid-back Neeleshwar and spend lazy days on the soft beaches, or perhaps make use of the locally grown spices yourself at a Malabar cookery class. This chilled tropical gem is a great spot for a relaxed walk, or perhaps hire a bike and cycle the network of lanes, passing paddy fields, temples and shrines along the way.

Transfer to Mangalore airport and then catch a flight to your final stop, Mumbai, one of India’s most prosperous cities. This is a rapidly developing modern metropolis, but it still retains pockets of historical charm which you will seek out on your city tour. Marvel at the cave shrines of Elephanta, named after a huge carved elephant found here by the Portuguese. The main temple is particularly impressive, and reached by climbing a flight of 100 steps to the top of a hill. Once you’ve caught your breath, take a look at the instantly recognisable Gateway of India, commemorating the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. Soak up the history of the covered Crawford Market, selling various fruits and vegetables, as well as meat.