Adventurous Train Journey through South India

Friday, December 15: Chennai

Embark on your South India adventure in Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. Start your day with a visit to Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world. Take a stroll along the sandy shores and witness the colorful sunrise. In the afternoon, explore the historic Fort St. George and the Government Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of art and archaeology. As the evening sets in, savor the local cuisine at a traditional restaurant.

• Marina Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Fort St. George: INR 50 (approximately $0.70), 2-3 hours
• Government Museum: INR 30 (approximately $0.40), 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Murugan Idli Shop, known for its authentic South Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Annalakshmi Restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian buffet spread with traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at Copper Chimney, a popular restaurant offering a blend of North Indian and South Indian flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Saturday, December 16: Mysore

Board an overnight train from Chennai to Mysore and arrive in the morning. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Mysore Palace, a mesmerizing architectural wonder. Explore the vibrant Devaraja Market and indulge in the local flavors. In the afternoon, visit the Chamundi Hills and climb up to the Chamundeshwari Temple for a panoramic view of the city. Wrap up the day by experiencing the lively atmosphere of the Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountains.

• Mysore Palace: INR 50 (approximately $0.70), 2-3 hours
• Devaraja Market: Free, 1-2 hours
• Chamundi Hills: Free, 2-3 hours
• Brindavan Gardens: INR 15 (approximately $0.20), 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Hotel RRR. This popular eatery offers a wide variety of dosas, idlis, and vadas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
• For lunch, head to Tiger Trail Restaurant, which specializes in authentic Mysore cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful biryanis and traditional thalis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For dinner, experience the local flavors at Oyster Bay. This cozy seafood restaurant offers a variety of fresh catch from the nearby coast. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Sunday, December 17: Coorg

Take a scenic train journey from Mysore to Coorg, known as the "Scotland of India." Morning: Embark on a thrilling trek to Tadiandamol Peak, the highest peak in Coorg, surrounded by lush green landscapes. Afternoon: Explore the serene Abbey Falls and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding coffee plantations. Evening: Visit the Namdroling Monastery, home to thousands of Tibetan monks, and witness their fascinating rituals.

• Tadiandamol Peak: Free, 4-5 hours
• Abbey Falls: INR 15 (approximately $0.20), 1-2 hours
• Namdroling Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours

Monday, December 18: Wayanad

Continue your train journey to Wayanad, a charming hill station in Kerala. Morning: Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Edakkal Caves, known for their ancient rock carvings. Afternoon: Visit the Pookode Lake and enjoy a serene boat ride amidst the lush surroundings. Evening: Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional dance performance.

• Edakkal Caves: INR 20 (approximately $0.30), 2-3 hours
• Pookode Lake: INR 10 (approximately $0.15), 1-2 hours
• Traditional Dance Performance: INR 100-200 (approximately $1.40-$2.80), 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 19: Cochin

Take a train from Wayanad to Cochin, a bustling port city in Kerala. Morning: Explore the historic Fort Kochi and its colonial architecture. Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets and St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. Afternoon: Dive into the vibrant culture of Jew Town and explore the antique shops. In the evening, witness a spectacular Kathakali dance performance, showcasing the traditional dance-drama of Kerala.

• Fort Kochi: Free, 2-3 hours
• Chinese Fishing Nets: Free, 1-2 hours
• St. Francis Church: Free, 1-2 hours
• Kathakali Dance Performance: INR 300-500 (approximately $4.20-$7.00), 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 20: Ooty

Catch a train from Cochin to Ooty, a picturesque hill station in Tamil Nadu. Morning: Take a ride on the UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as the Toy Train, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens and enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Ooty Lake. Evening: Visit the bustling commercial street, Charing Cross, and indulge in some shopping.

• Nilgiri Mountain Railway: INR 205 (approximately $2.85), 2-3 hours
• Botanical Gardens: INR 20 (approximately $0.30), 1-2 hours
• Ooty Lake: INR 10-20 (approximately $0.15-$0.30), 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 21: Bangalore

Conclude your adventurous train journey with a trip from Ooty to Bangalore, the cosmopolitan capital of Karnataka. Morning: Explore the sprawling Lalbagh Botanical Garden, famous for its diverse collection of plants and flowers. Afternoon: Visit the Bangalore Palace, a magnificent structure resembling England's Windsor Castle. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of MG Road, known for its shopping and dining options.

• Lalbagh Botanical Garden: INR 20 (approximately $0.30), 2-3 hours
• Bangalore Palace: INR 230 (approximately $3.20), 2-3 hours
• MG Road: Free, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:

For adventure seekers, head to Agumbe in Karnataka, often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of South India." It offers breathtaking views, trekking opportunities, and the chance to spot diverse wildlife, including the iconic King Cobra. Another offbeat destination is Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu, a ghost town with its mystical charm and stunning beach. Explore these hidden gems to add an extra touch of adventure to your South India trip.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.