7-Day South India Adventure Rail/Train and Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Temple and Beach Day in Chennai

Chennai, Tamil Nadu on December 1, 2024

9:00AM

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Begin your day with a visit to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a beautiful Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kaidi Kitchen

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Kaidi Kitchen, a prison-themed restaurant serving a variety of cuisines.
Medium, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Elliot's Beach

Relax at Elliot's Beach, a less crowded beach perfect for a peaceful afternoon by the sea.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ente Keralam

Indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine at Ente Keralam, offering a blend of flavours from God's Own Country.
Affordable, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Historical Marvels in Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu on December 2, 2024

10:00AM

Shore Temple

Explore the ancient Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
Medium, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Moonrakers

Savour fresh seafood at Moonrakers while enjoying a view of the sea and nearby temples.
Medium, 1 hour

4:00PM

Pancha Rathas

Admire the Five Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples representing the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata.
Medium, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Wharf

Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal at The Wharf, a seaside restaurant offering a fusion of flavours.
Affordable, 1.5 hours

Day 3: French Colony and Serenity in Pondicherry

Pondicherry on December 3, 2024

9:00AM

Aurobindo Ashram

Visit the Aurobindo Ashram for spiritual tranquillity and to learn about the teachings of Sri Aurobindo.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tanto Pizzeria

Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and Italian cuisine at Tanto Pizzeria in the heart of the French Quarter.
Medium, 1 hour

3:00PM

Paradise Beach

Relax at Paradise Beach, accessible by a short ferry ride and offering pristine sands and clear waters.
Low, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Satsanga

Indulge in a blend of Indian and European cuisines at Satsanga, a popular restaurant in Pondicherry.
Affordable, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Spiritual Prayers in Chidambaram

Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu on December 4, 2024

10:00AM

Nataraja Temple

Discover the mystical Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer, in the heart of Chidambaram.
Medium, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dilliwaala 6

Enjoy North Indian specialities at Dilliwaala 6, a themed restaurant offering a taste of Delhi in Tamil Nadu.
Medium, 1 hour

4:00PM

Silver Beach

Relax at Silver Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sands along the Bay of Bengal, perfect for unwinding.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Nala Hotel

Treat yourself to a sumptuous 3-course dinner at Nala Hotel, known for its traditional Tamil Nadu dishes.
Affordable, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Sacred Sites in Madurai

Madurai, Tamil Nadu on December 5, 2024

9:00AM

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a significant Hindu temple showcasing intricate artwork and historical tales.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sree Sabarees

Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch at Sree Sabarees, a local favourite offering authentic flavours.
Medium, 1 hour

3:00PM

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, an architectural marvel with a blend of Dravidian and Islamic styles.
Low, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Amma Mess

Experience the local cuisine of Madurai at Amma Mess, known for its hearty meals and authentic flavours.
Affordable, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Pilgrimage to Rameswaram

Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu on December 6, 2024

9:00AM

Ramanathaswamy Temple

Embark on a spiritual journey at Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hari Mess

Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at Hari Mess, a local eatery famous for its authentic Rameswaram cuisine.
Low, 1 hour

3:00PM

Dhanushkodi Beach

Visit Dhanushkodi Beach for its tranquillity and the point where the Indian Ocean meets the Bay of Bengal.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Temple View Restaurant

Relish a 3-course dinner at Temple View Restaurant, soaking in views of the illuminated Ramanathaswamy Temple.
Affordable, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Beach Bliss in Kovalam and Island Retreat in Lakshadweep

Kovalam, Kerala -> Lakshadweep Islands on December 7, 2024

10:00AM

Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam

Spend your morning soaking up the sun at Lighthouse Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Kovalam.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Malabar Cafe

Indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine at Malabar Cafe, offering a variety of seafood delicacies and regional dishes.
Medium, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Board Ship to Lakshadweep Islands

Embark on a scenic journey to the tranquil Lakshadweep Islands, known for their untouched beauty and clear waters.
High, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Island Cafe, Lakshadweep

Experience the unique local flavours of Lakshadweep with a delightful dinner at Island Cafe, set against the island's beauty.
Medium, 2 hours