South India by Rail: Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari, and Trivandrum

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Start your day with a visit to this iconic temple, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant colours.
INR 50, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Take a tour of this 17th-century palace featuring impressive Indo-Saracenic architecture.
INR 25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at this popular eatery known for its delicious idlis and dosas.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Gandhi Memorial Museum

Spend the afternoon delving into the life of Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian freedom struggle at this insightful museum.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Indulge in authentic Chettinad cuisine at this local gem known for its delectable non-vegetarian dishes.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Temples and Culture in Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Koodal Azhagar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate sculptures and carvings.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Alagar Kovil

Discover the beautiful hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
INR 20, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Sree Sabarees

Relish a traditional thali meal at this local favourite, offering an array of authentic Tamil Nadu dishes.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at Puthu Mandapam

Take a leisurely stroll through this bustling market, perfect for picking up souvenirs and local crafts.
Variable, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

Return to this popular eatery for another delightful meal of South Indian specialities.
INR 200, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Rameshwaram Arrival

Rameshwaram, India

10:00AM

Train to Rameshwaram

Board the scenic train journey to Rameshwaram, crossing the iconic Pamban Bridge and enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean.
INR 150, 3.5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your accommodation and take some time to relax after the train journey.
Variable, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Agnitheertham Beach

Head to the beach for a serene evening by the sea, known for its sacred waters and stunning sunset views.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hari Mess

Enjoy a hearty dinner at this local eatery known for its delicious seafood and traditional Tamil cuisine.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Rameshwaram Temples

Rameshwaram, India

8:30AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Embark on a spiritual journey at this sacred temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
INR 50, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Dhanushkodi

Take a scenic drive to the ghost town of Dhanushkodi, known for its history, pristine beaches, and panoramic vistas.
INR 100 (for transport), 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Temple City Family Restaurant

Enjoy a satisfying meal at this family-friendly restaurant offering a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
INR 300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at Pamban Bridge

Stroll along the historic Pamban Bridge, offering spectacular views of the ocean and the surrounding scenic landscapes.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Shree Ram Mess

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at this local favourite known for its authentic South Indian cuisine.
INR 350, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Journey to Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

9:00AM

Train to Kanyakumari

Board the train to Kanyakumari, enjoying the picturesque journey through the lush landscapes of Tamil Nadu.
INR 200, 4 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive in Kanyakumari and settle into your hotel before starting your exploration of the southernmost tip of India.
Variable, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Embark on a ferry ride to this iconic memorial, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
INR 50 (ferry ticket), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner with ocean views at this popular restaurant known for its fresh seafood and regional dishes.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Kanyakumari Exploration

Kanyakumari, India

8:00AM

Visit Kanyakumari Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the ancient Kanyakumari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Devi Kanya Kumari.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Gandhi Memorial Mandapam

Learn about the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi at this memorial, set amidst beautiful gardens overlooking the ocean.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Triveni Restaurant

Indulge in a sumptuous meal at this popular restaurant offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Kanyakumari Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at the picturesque beach, known for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sangam Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at this waterfront restaurant offering a diverse menu and breathtaking sunset views.
INR 350, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Trivandrum Highlights

Trivandrum, India

9:00AM

Train to Trivandrum

Board the train to Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala, known for its rich cultural heritage and colonial architecture.
INR 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Napier Museum

Explore the museum housing a rare collection of archaeological and historic artefacts, as well as a beautiful natural history gallery.
INR 100, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Villa Maya

Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience at this elegant restaurant housed in a colonial-era bungalow, offering a fusion of Indian and international cuisine.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Kuthiramalika Palace

Visit the beautiful palace known for its unique horse-shaped ornaments and traditional Kerala architecture.
INR 50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Buhari Hotel

Savour a delectable dinner at this iconic restaurant, known for its legendary biryanis and rich Mughlai cuisine.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Trivandrum Exploration

Trivandrum, India

9:00AM

Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Discover the grandeur of this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring intricate architecture and fascinating legends.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Zoological Park

Spend the morning exploring the lush greenery and diverse wildlife at the Trivandrum Zoo, a perfect outing for nature enthusiasts.
INR 50, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Zam Zam

Indulge in authentic Malabar cuisine at this popular restaurant, known for its exquisite biryanis and seafood delicacies.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at Chalai Market

Explore the bustling market and pick up souvenirs, spices, and local handicrafts as mementos of your South India adventure.
Variable, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Villa Maya

Conclude your journey with a memorable dinner at this elegant restaurant, savoring the delightful flavours of Kerala one last time.
INR 800, 2 hours
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