Exploring Tamil Nadu by Rail: A 5-Day Adventure

Day 1: Historic Chennai

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a stroll along Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, and soak in the morning sun.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Fort St. George

Discover the colonial history of Chennai at Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India, housing a museum with artifacts from the British era.
INR 50, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Indulge in authentic South Indian cuisine at Saravana Bhavan, known for its delicious dosas and filter coffee.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Experience the architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance of Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at T. Nagar

Shop for traditional silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts at the bustling shopping district of T. Nagar.
Variable, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Murugan Idli Shop

End your day with a dinner of fluffy idlis and delicious chutneys at the famous Murugan Idli Shop.
INR 200, 1 hour

Day 2: Cultural Madurai

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the intricate architecture and vibrant colors of Meenakshi Amman Temple, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Kadai

Savor a traditional South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Kadai, known for its delicious idlis and sambar.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Step back in time at Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th-century marvel showcasing Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop at Puthu Mandapam

Browse through traditional handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry at the bustling market of Puthu Mandapam near Meenakshi Temple.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Enjoy a hearty dinner of authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine at Amma Mess, known for its flavorful curries and biryanis.
INR 300, 1 hour

Day 3: Vibrant Coimbatore

Coimbatore, India

9:00AM

Visit Dhyanalinga

Start your day with a visit to Dhyanalinga, a unique meditative space and energy center designed by Sadhguru.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shree Anandhaas

Relish a delicious vegetarian meal at Shree Anandhaas, known for its extensive South Indian thali spread.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore VOC Park and Zoo

Spend your afternoon amidst nature at VOC Park and Zoo, home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shop at Brookefields Mall

Indulge in shopping at Brookefields Mall, a popular shopping destination in Coimbatore offering a range of brands and entertainment options.
Variable, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sree Annapoorna

Enjoy a traditional dinner at Sree Annapoorna, known for its delectable dosas, vadas, and filter coffee.
INR 250, 1 hour

Day 4: Scenic Ooty

Ooty, India

9:00AM

Visit Botanical Gardens

Explore the lush beauty of Ooty at the Botanical Gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees.
INR 30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shinkow's Chinese Restaurant

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Shinkow's Chinese Restaurant, offering a fusion of Chinese and Tibetan cuisines in a cozy setting.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Embark on a scenic journey aboard the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiri hills.
INR 250, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Ooty Lake

Spend your evening boating or strolling around the picturesque Ooty Lake, surrounded by eucalyptus trees and lush landscapes.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Earl's Secret

Dine at Earl's Secret for a sumptuous dinner with a colonial ambiance and a menu featuring a mix of Indian and continental dishes.
INR 500, 1 hour

Day 5: Return to Chennai

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Explore DakshinaChitra

Visit DakshinaChitra, an open-air museum showcasing the heritage and culture of South India through traditional crafts, art, and architecture.
INR 250, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a final meal at Murugan Idli Shop before departing from Chennai, savoring their famous idlis and chutneys.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping at Pondy Bazaar

Shop for souvenirs and traditional items at Pondy Bazaar, a bustling market offering a variety of clothing, accessories, and trinkets.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Final Farewell

Bid adieu to Tamil Nadu with fond memories as you board your train back home, cherishing the cultural experiences and scenic beauty of the region.
Free, N/A