Southern India Rail Journey: Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari, and Madurai

Day 1: Exploring Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram, India

8:00AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple, known for its long corridors and sacred waters. Marvel at the Dravidian architecture and take a dip in the holy tanks.
The temple is located in the heart of Rameshwaram town, a short auto-rickshaw ride from most hotels.
Free entry, additional fees for rituals, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Savour traditional South Indian cuisine at a local eatery. Don't miss trying the dosas, idlis, and seafood delicacies.
Ask locals for recommendations or head to a popular restaurant in the town centre.
Approx. £5 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Pamban Bridge

Take a leisurely walk on the historic Pamban Bridge, India's first sea bridge. Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
The bridge is accessible by auto-rickshaw from the town centre.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Seafood Restaurant

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes at a local restaurant by the sea. Watch the sunset while enjoying delicious coastal flavours.
Head to the coastal area where many seafood restaurants are located.
Approx. £10 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Kanyakumari Coastal Paradise

Kanyakumari, India

9:00AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a sacred monument dedicated to Swami Vivekananda. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stunning views of the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean.
Ferries to the memorial are available near the Kanyakumari shore.
Approx. £2 for the ferry ride, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Viewpoint Restaurant

Dine at a restaurant with panoramic views of the ocean. Try local seafood dishes while enjoying the sea breeze.
Head to a restaurant on the cliff overlooking the ocean.
Approx. £7 per person, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kanyakumari Temple

Explore the Kanyakumari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kumari Amman. Witness the unique architecture and religious rituals at this important pilgrimage site.
The temple is a short walk from the shore.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine. Don't miss the regional specialities like appam and fish curry.
Explore eateries in the town centre for a variety of dining options.
Approx. £6 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discovering Madurai's Heritage

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Explore the intricate carvings, colourful gopurams, and sacred shrines within the temple complex.
The temple is located in the heart of Madurai, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.
Free entry, additional fees for special darshan, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant

Treat yourself to a traditional Tamil Nadu meal at a local restaurant. Sample a variety of dishes like biryani, dosa, and traditional sweets.
Head to a popular restaurant near the temple for an authentic culinary experience.
Approx. £8 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Visit the grand Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture. Admire the intricate stuccowork and majestic pillars in this historic royal residence.
The palace is a short drive from the Meenakshi Amman Temple.
Approx. £3 entry fee, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Cultural Restaurant

Experience a cultural dinner with traditional music and dance performances. Enjoy local delicacies in a vibrant setting that showcases Tamil Nadu's rich heritage.
Book a table at a cultural restaurant in the city centre.
Approx. £15 per person, 2 hours
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Day 4: Departure Day

Madurai, India

9:00AM

Final Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

Spend your morning shopping at Puthu Mandapam, a bustling market near the Meenakshi Temple. Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional items to take home.
The market is located near the temple complex, a short walk from many hotels.
Shopping costs vary, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a final meal in Madurai at a local restaurant, savouring the flavours of Tamil Nadu one last time before your departure.
Choose a restaurant in the city centre for a convenient lunch stop.
Approx. £8 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Departure from Madurai

Head to Madurai Railway Station for your onward journey. Board your train and reminisce about the wonderful experiences from your Southern India rail trip.
Take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the railway station, depending on your hotel location.
Cost varies based on distance, Time to catch your train
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