Jamwai Journeys is a more thoughtful way of exploring India. Each itinerary is crafted with care to honor culture, support local communities, and leave a positive impact.
Arrive at Goa’s Dabolim Airport (GOI). Take a pre-booked private car to your accommodation, a locally owned hotel. Settle in and begin your exploration of Goa, India’s most popular beach destination. For your first night, find a local shack on the beach for a delicious Goan meal. Don’t miss out on trying some fresh seafood and the local “feni” (a cashew or coconut spirit).
Accommodation: Locally-owned hotel
Transport : Private Vehicle
Start your day with an early start. Board a train from Vasco da Gama (VSG) to Hospet Junction (HPT), the nearest railway station to Hampi. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours. The Amaravati Express is a good option. This train journey is an experience in itself, passing through the lush Western Ghats. Arrive at Hospet Junction and tPrivate transfer to hotel, scenic ride to Hampi (about 30 minutes). Settle into your hotel. Take some time to relax. For a beautiful introduction to Hampi’s landscape, walk to Hemakuta Hill for a breathtaking sunset over the rocky terrain and ancient temples.
Accommodation: Locally-owned hotel
Transport : Private Vehicle, Train
Dedicate your day to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi. Start with the most famous sites like the Virupaksha Temple, the active temple at the heart of Hampi Bazaar. Visit the magnificent Vijaya Vittala Temple, famous for its Stone Chariot and the musical pillars. Explore the Royal Enclosure, including the Elephant Stables and the Queen’s Bath. In the afternoon, make a point to visit the local women’s initiative, the Kishkinda Foundation. This is a great way to support the local community directly. You can meet the women, learn about their work, and purchase traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a delicious local lunch with them. This activity promotes sustainable tourism and provides a meaningful cultural exchange. Enjoy a quiet dinner at one of the riverside cafes, reflecting on the day’s historical journey.
Accommodation: Locally-owned hotel
Transport : Tuk Tuk for sightseeing
Rise early for an unforgettable sunrise hike up Matanga Hill. It’s a challenging but rewarding trek that offers a panoramic view of Hampi’s unique landscape. After the hike, you’ll have free time to revisit any sites you missed or simply relax. Enjoy a final leisurely lunch in Hampi. Make sure to pack your bags and check out from your hotel in the late afternoon. Take a private car back to the nearest major railway station, Hospet Junction, to board the overnight train to Mysore (the Hampi Express is a popular choice). The journey takes approximately 12 hours. Settle into your sleeper class berth for a night on the rails.
Accommodation: Locally-owned hotel
Transport : Private transfer, Overnight train
Arrive at Mysore Junction in the morning. Take a private car to your hotel to drop off your bags and freshen up. Start your exploration at the iconic Devaraja Market. It’s a sensory overload of colorful flowers, fresh produce, spices, and local goods. Then, visit the Chamundi Hills to see the beautiful temple and the monolithic Nandi Bull statue. Visit the grand Mysore Palace, an architectural marvel. The intricate carvings and stunning interiors are a testament to the city’s royal history. Plan your visit for the evening if it’s a Sunday or a public holiday to see the palace lit up by over 97,000 bulbs. If you’re up for it, catch a Bollywood movie at a local cinema for a fun, immersive cultural experience.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Take a private car to Ooty. The journey is incredibly scenic, winding through the lush forests of the Nilgiri Hills. The travel is approximately 126 km and will take around 3-4 hours. Arrive in Ooty, the “Queen of Hill Stations.” Check into your hotel. Take an orientation walk with your tour guide (if applicable) or on your own to get a feel for the town. Enjoy the cool climate and explore the local markets, where you can find spices, homemade chocolates, and tea.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Wake up early for a picturesque sunrise hike up Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris. The views of the surrounding valleys are spectacular. Experience a quintessential Ooty activity: a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. This “toy train” is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning views of the tea plantations and forests. Visit the Doddabetta Tea Factory, where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the local blends. This directly supports the local agricultural economy and provides a deeper understanding of the region’s primary industry. For your “Big Night Out,” choose a cozy restaurant for a farewell dinner, or find a spot to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the hills.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
This day is dedicated to travel. It’s a long journey by private car from Ooty to Kochi. The surface journey is approximately 279 km and will take around 7 hours. The route takes you from the high altitudes of the Nilgiris to the coastal plains of Kerala, with a remarkable change in scenery. Arrive in the beautiful port town of Kochi, often called the “Queen of the Arabian Sea.” Your tour ends upon arrival. Settle into your accommodation in Fort Kochi. Spend the evening walking around the historic streets.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Explore Fort Kochi, a charming area with a rich history. Visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, the 16th-century St. Francis Church, and the colorful Santa Cruz Basilica. Walk through Jew Town, a historic area known for its antique shops and the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of cultures. For a memorable cultural experience, attend a live performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s traditional dance form. It’s a beautiful art form that tells ancient stories through elaborate costumes and expressions.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private vehicle
Depending on your flight schedule, you can either do some last-minute souvenir shopping or visit the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), famous for its exquisite murals. Head to Cochin International Airport (COK) for your flight home, or continue your travels.
Accommodation: Locally owned hotel.
Transport : Private transfer
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