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Explore Southern India by rail, arguably one of the greatest ways to explore such a vibrant and culturally rich country, as you sit back onboard and discover unparalleled views of the region.
Your journey will start in Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu and home to a stunning collection of Hindu Temples. Go on to journey into Chettinad, renowned for its deliciously spicy and flavourful cuisines that will leave your tastebuds dancing for more. Your rail journey will continue onto Kerala and Karnataka, where your adventure ends. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sun-drenched tropical coastlines to majestic scenes of geographical terrains as you become immersed in the heart and soul of Southern India.
For advice on where to go, what to do and how to choose your perfect tour, talk to our Travel Experts.
Our Southern India by Rail tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine.
Mahabalipuram is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring ancient rock-cut temples and monuments, showcasing impressive Dravidian architecture and stone carvings. Highlights include the Shore Temple, Arjuna's Penance, Pancha Rathas, and Varaha Cave Temple, dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries.
Kanyakumari is a coastal town at the southern tip of India. Known for the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, and Kanyakumari Beach, it's a place where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet.
The Ooty Botanical Gardens cover 55 acres and showcase a diverse collection of exotic and indigenous plants. Notable features include a 20-million-year-old fossilized tree trunk, Toda Hill with traditional tribal huts. The gardens provide a serene retreat for nature lovers and those interested in horticulture.
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known for its Dravidian architecture, and apart from its religious significance, the temple is a symbol of Kerala's cultural heritage.
Witness an exuberant performance of the traditional dance-drama that is Kathakali. As Kerala's best-known performing art, it is an extravagant retelling of Hindu epics complete with colourful costumes and elaborate make up.
Staying overnight on a Kettuvallam in Kerala offers a memorable experience. These traditional houseboats provide comfortable accommodation, scenic views, and delicious Kerala cuisine. Enjoy the tranquility of the backwaters, relax on the deck, and witness stunning sunsets and sunrises, as you interact with local life.
The Ooty to Coonoor toy train, part of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The small but charming train offers breathtaking views of Nilgiri Hills, tea plantations, and picturesque landscapes. The journey concludes in Coonoor, a beautiful hill station with attractions like Sim's Park and Dolphin's Nose
Fly overnight to Chennai, transferring to your hotel on arrival. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Start today with an exploration of the ancient temples and intricately adorned monuments, providing insight into the architectural wonders of Kanchipuram and the coastal allure of Mahabalipuram.
After breakfast, you will transfer to Chennai Station, where you will step aboard the Trichy-bound Tejas Express. Sit back and enjoy the picturesque landscapes while you head south. On arrival you will transfer to Tanjore for the night.
Drive to Madurai, with an intriguing detour through Chettinad to learn about tile-making and to wander through the local market. Enjoy a hands-on cooking lesson, savouring the flavours of Chettinad cuisine, which culminates in a delightful lunch experience. Upon reaching Madurai, the evening unfolds as you experience an Arti Ceremony at Minakshi Temple, a spiritual and cultural spectacle.
A day of exploration that starts with a sightseeing tour of Madurai. Discover Thirumalai Nayaka Palace, a historical gem resonating with the splendour of a bygone era before engaging in a delightful Food Trail Tour, to relish the diverse and flavourful culinary delights that Madurai is known for.
Following breakfast, you'll transfer to the railway station to board the PJ TVC Express bound for Trivandrum. Upon reaching Trivandrum, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the city with a visit to the iconic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a site of profound cultural and religious significance.
Enjoy a day trip to Kanyakumari, where you will marvel at the convergence of the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal. Discover the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue, iconic landmarks adorning the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, before returning to Trivandrum.
After breakfast take a drive to Alleppey, where you will board a traditional houseboat, locally referred to as a Kettuvallam. Cruise through the captivating backwaters, enveloped by verdant scenery and swaying palm trees. The soothing rhythm of the tranquil waters provide an ideal backdrop for an overnight stay.
Disembark and to Kochi, a city rich in history and culture. Enjoy a city tour that explores significant landmarks, historical sites, and lively local markets. In the evening, delve into the realm of Kathakali, an ancient dance form merging intricate facial expressions, graceful motions, and vibrant attire.
After breakfast transfer to the rain station to board the SBC Intercity Express heading to Coimbatore. Upon reaching Coimbatore you will continue by coach to Ooty where you will check in at your hotel.
Following breakfast, commence a picturesque journey from Ooty to Coonoor, on the famous Toy Train. Meandering through the enchanting Nilgiri Hills, the journey unfolds breath taking views of landscapes, tea plantations, and quaint villages. Take the time to discover the Botanical Gardens in Coonoor before returning to Ooty.
Return to the railway station in Coimbatore to catch the SBC Intercity Express headed for Bangalore. Upon reaching Bangalore, transfer to your hotel before dinner.
Start the day with a city tour of Bangalore, immersing yourself in the modernity and tradition that characterizes this lively city. Explore prominent landmarks, cultural sites and attractions that showcase the city's rich heritage and essence.
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
We draw from a wide range of hotels on our holidays, each one is chosen to suit the tour you are travelling on meaning your accommodation can range from a smart business hotel in one city to a family run guesthouse in a smaller town. Here are some examples of the type of hotel you can expect to find on this tour.
Places Visited: Chennai (2N) - Tanjore (1N) - Madurai (2N) - Trivandrum (2N) - Houseboat (1N) - Kochi (1N) - Ooty (2N) - Bangalore (2N)
All of our tour departures include international flights and taxes in the price. If the dates we have available for this tour don't suit your needs, or you are not sure travelling as part of a group is for you, maybe a Private Tour would be more ideal. If your tour departs in less than 30 days, please call our travel experts to book.
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Departures for Solo travellers only are available for this tour on selected
dates.
In addition to being for solos only these departures feature smaller group sizes, free
airport lounge access and complimentary cocktails on arrival.
There are no dedicated Solo departures for this year. You can enjoy any of our tours with no Single Supplement on our Happy to Share option or explore the solo departures in other years.
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