Travel with the DHF

An intricately carved subshrine in Belur, Karnataka. Photo by Surendra Kumar.

The Deccan spans an enormous area across the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra and Goa. Throughout the region are stunning monuments – magnificent forts, ancient stepwells, sprawling palaces and incredible temples – all set within gorgeous landscapes.  

To coincide with the very best weather the Deccan has to offer, plan your travels with our guidebooks, which are are available in paperback and e-book format at the DHF Bookstore.

The Shantishvara Basadi, a Jaina temple in Jinanathapura. Photograph by Surendra Kumar.

Each site across the Deccan is a treasure trove of art and culture, and Karnataka holds a wealth of ancient histories. Turn back the clock at Hampi for a glimpse into the Vijayanagara empire and its beautiful riverside temples. Visit Badami’s stunning rock-cut caves or explore Bidar’s gorgeous fort. If the city is more your speed, our guidebooks offer informative tours of Mysuru’s grand palaces and iconic buildings.

Discover Karnataka with the DHF’s guidebooks:

Mysuru with Srirangapatna
The Hoysala Legacy: Belur, Halebidu, Somanathapura
Jaina Tradition of the Deccan: Shravanabelagola, Mudabidri, Karkala
Hampi Vijayanagara
Badami, Aihole, Pattadakal
Gulbarga, Bidar and Bijapur

One of the four monumental toranas defining the compound of the Svayambhu Shiva temple, Warangal. Photograph by Surendra Kumar.

Sites rich in fascinating history can be found throughout Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Hyderabad’s Old City is dotted with centuries-old palaces and tombs, Golconda features a stunning citadel, and Warangal is home to the splendid architecture of the Kakatiya empire, including an open-air sculpture garden with the remains of a Shiva temple (pictured above).

Discover Andhra Pradesh and Telangana with the DHF’s guidebooks:

Hyderabad, Golconda
Heritage of the Kakatiyas: Hanamkonda, Warangal, Palampet, Ghanpur

Facade of Pandu Lena, Chaitya (Cave 18), Nashik. Photograph by Surendra Kumar.

The rolling hills and winding roads of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra contain some of the Deccan’s most remarkable monuments. With our books in hand, you can explore Mumbai’s Gothic structures and enchanting Jewish heritage. You can head to the nearby Elephanta Caves or visit the incredible rock-cut Buddhist monasteries around Nashik and Junnar. Or you can wander through the historic city of Aurangabad, home to some of the Deccan’s best Mughal-era architecture.

Discover Maharashtra with the DHF’s guidebooks:

Bombay Gothic
Elephanta 
Jewish Heritage of the Deccan: Mumbai, the Northern Konkan and Pune
Buddhist Rock-Cut Monasteries of the Western Ghats
Aurangabad with Daulatabad, Khuldabad and Ahmadnagar

One of two couraças descending to the lower fort of Reis Magos. Photograph by Surendra Kumar.

Goa is home to more than just lush beaches – beginning in the 16th century, the Portuguese built a number of seaforts along the Arabian coast. These incredible structures, perfect for rambling, tell stories of war and trade. If you enjoy contemporary art you can also stop by the Mario Miranda Gallery at the Reis Magos fort.

Discover Goa with the DHF’s guidebooks:

Portuguese Sea Forts – Goa with Chaul, Korlai and Vasai

To support the DHF’s various projects and initiatives, get in touch with us.