PELORUS ANNOUNCES NEW HELI-ADVENTURE
OF LESSER KNOWN INDIA
July 2024 – In an industry first, Pelorus Travel has designed an itinerary for adventurous travellers to explore Southern India’s most remote regions via helicopter, in a new itinerary promising to shine a light on forgotten kingdoms and archaeological highlights. This new and rare journey showcases the lesser-known spots on the sub continent, including spending the afternoon in the expert hands of author and historian, William Dalrymple, to bring the history to life, all while promising characterful, luxury accommodation.
‘The Hidden Kingdoms of Hyderabad and Hampi’, is a seven-night journey that takes travellers into the past, brought to life through fantastic storytelling by expert historian and world-renowned author, William Dalrymple and through the use of heli travel in a completely new way. The helicopters open up this region like never before, allowing for cycling and hiking in search of sunset picnic spots overlooking rivers and granite ridges, wandering through bustling markets boasting bangle-makers and delicious biryani, and exploration of Hyderabad’s monuments, mosques and markets. They will uncover Hampi’s unique heritage and hidden kingdoms as well as the architectural marvels of Gulbarga, Kanaganahalli, Bijapur and Badami.
Throughout the journey, travellers will stay at Evolve Back Hampi, inspired by 14th-century Vijayanagar Empire architecture and overlooking some enchanting countryside. This palatial property the utmost comfort with an infinity pool, Ayurvedic spa and delicious dining.
Itinerary highlights include:
- Discovering the cultural hub of Hyderabad, boasting the likes of Golconda Fort, Charminar, Laad Bazaar, the Mecca Masjid courtyard and Nizam’s tombs.
- Spend the afternoon with William Dalrymple, an extraordinary storyteller, who will delve into the mysteries of the seven Nizams of Hyderabad, whose destinies and decisions shaped the history and culture of this region.
- The imposing Durbar Hall, Paigah tombs and British Residency, formerly one of the most impressive British-built buildings in the country – topped off with a delicious dinner of sublime biryani and other regional specialities.
- Gulbarga’s Jami Mosque and Fort, reminiscent of the Cordoba in Spain, followed by a short flight to Kanganahalli, where the remains of these excavation sites can be dated to between the 1st century BC to the 3rd century AD.
- A climb to the top of Gol Gumbuz, Adil Shah's 17th century mausoleum, to get a bird's eye view of the city. Explore the old town, with its collection of fine carvings, mausoleums and intricate tombs before flying onward to where temple complexes and caves await at Badami.
- Mystical World Heritage Site, Hampi, the bygone capital of the lost Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagar. Guarded by rivers and granite ridges, there are abundant opportunities for cycling and hiking as well as a fascinating exploration of Hampi Bazaar and the Royal Centre.
‘The Hidden Kingdoms of Hyderabad and Hampi’ starts from GBP 20,600 pp based on 4 adults for 7 nights
For bookings and enquiries contact: www.pelorustravel.com / +44 (0)203 848 5424