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HAMPI
The enchanting temple town of Hampi in
Karnataka is a world unto itself. Miles of rocks
and boulders, fascinating ruins dating back to
the Vijayanagara era, banana plantations and
paddy fi elds give the city a magical aura. Linger
for a few days discovering the open museum
that the town is. Visit grand temples like
Virupaksha or Elephant Stables and palaces,
hike up the Matanga Hill for a bird’s-eye view
of the city, or enjoy walking through its green
fi elds. Head back to Hyatt Place Hampi where
a cozy corner awaits you. Outstanding standard
facilities aside, the hotel also conducts an
excellent tour of the town that’s well worth
the trouble.
AHMEDABAD
Rated by Forbes as one of the world’s top-fi ve
emerging cities, Ahmedabad’s metamorphosis
from a small town to a shining example of
India’s urban potential happened quickly.
Take a 90-minute walking tour of Gandhi’s
fi rst ashram along the Sabarmati river, which
gives you a peek into the life and times of the
Mahatma. From Segway rides to a butterfl y
park, the pedestrianised urban space of the
500-year old Kankaria Lake is the ideal choice
for an entertaining evening in the city. If
you’re craving a Gujarati thali, the fi ne dining
restaurant Agashiye spoils you for choice.
Overlooking the gorgeous Vastrapur Lake,
Hyatt Ahmedabad boasts the city’s best spa
and a range of restaurants and elegant rooms
to make your time in the city more memorable.
If you like Gujarati
cuisine, the fi ne dining
restaurant Agashiye
spoils you for choice.
RAIPUR
One of India’s new-millennium cities, Raipur
quickly out-grew its shanty town image.
Located in the Mahanadi plains, India’s Green
Bowl, it is replete with fourth-century temples,
state-of-the-art museums and art galleries.
Visit Mahant Ghasidas Sangrahalaya, a unique
anthropological museum, or drop by the
Mahakoshal Art Gallery for fascinating art
displays. A trip to Kevalya Dham Jain Temple,
built entirely out of white marble, will leave
you gobsmacked! Hyatt Raipur, located within
Magneto-The Mall, a mixed-use complex in the
business centre of the city, off ers easy access to
quality restaurants and cineplexes, making it
an ideal choice to stay while in the city. ▪
From top: Outdoor
swimming pool at
Hyatt Place Hampi; a
spa treatment at
Hyatt Raipur.
BOULDERING
IN HAMPI
The art of bouldering, rock
climbing without a rope, has found its
wings in Hampi thanks to the endless
spread of stone. Cross the river on a
coracle boat and rent out equipment
from Goan Corner/Shiva Guest
House. Hampi is great for pros
and amateurs alike.
BEYOND
Happening Cities
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