IndiaHassanHassan is the heart of ancient Hoysala culture. The city itself isn’t the draw, though it's a pleasant enough place — clean and colourful, with a tropical vibe and a fun city market. Overview Trip ideas Experiences Regions Best time to visit Accommodation Back to all places in Goa, Karnataka & Hyderabad What brings visitors here are the magnificent Hoysala ruins at Belur and Halebid, which have survived remarkably intact for hundreds of years.The Hoysala Kingdom arose in the 11th century and ruled over much of south India, resisting invasions by Muslim sultanates from the north and south until it was finally eclipsed by the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. Though the Hoysalas were important to the development of Karnatakan culture in many ways, what they’re remembered for today is their architecture: temples covered in stunningly intricate carvings, so delicate and finely detailed that they could have been made yesterday. Belur and Halebid represent the finest of about 1,500 Hoysala temples in Karnataka, and deservedly earned World Heritage status in 2023.Now, while temples might bring you to Hassan, it’s the Hoysala Village Resort that’ll make it hard to leave. Set in lush countryside outside the city, with an ayurvedic spa, palm-fringed swimming pool, and suites decked out with embroidered fabrics and copper bathtubs, it’s a genuine paradise and — like all of our favourite stays — it’s built around cultural immersion. The activities here are neverending, and your hosts’ knowledge of the local culture is a treasure trove. Go with them on guided excursions, join in craft workshops, learn to cook Malnad cuisine — and much, much more. Other destinations in this region India BangaloreYoung, global, edgy — whether you’re after live music, craft coffee, or avant-garde theatre, Bangalore is one of India’s most exciting & progressive cities. India ChikmagalurTake a load off and soak up the scenery in Chikmagalur, known for its vivid green coffee plantations surrounded by lush, mist-cloaked mountains. India CoorgStay among coffee and cashew plantations, hike through pristine forest, and experience Kodava culture at this remote hill region in the Western Ghats. India HampiA gorgeous landscape of paddy fields and palm trees, with some of the most spectacular ruins in India — plus fantastic rock climbing and laid-back, tropical vibes. India HyderabadHyderabad is home to vast film studios, palatial houses and shiny shopping malls — juxtaposed with one of India’s most atmospheric old Islamic quarters. India Kabini National ParkKabini is south India’s premier national park. Visit to spot tigers, leopards and more — and visit Jenu Kuruba tribal villages on the fringes of the jungle. India Mysore It’s best-known for its magnificent Royal Palace, but what we love most about Mysore is its tropical small-town atmosphere and sprawling, medievalesque market. India North GoaOld Portuguese buildings, hippie culture and the best beaches in India combine to give North Goa its unique, fun-loving character. India South GoaEvery bit as beautiful as in the north, South Goa is all about slowing down and soaking up the surroundings, from beaches to fishing hamlets & tropical forest.