Epic Indian Rail Journey: Chennai to Darjeeling to Shillong to Chandigarh to Haridwar to Delhi to Chennai

Day 1: Soul of South India

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Visit Marina Beach

Start your day with a stroll at Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, while enjoying the sunrise.
INR 0, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Head to the stunning Kapaleeshwarar Temple to marvel at the intricate Dravidian architecture and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
INR 0, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Indulge in a flavorful South Indian meal at Murugan Idli Shop, known for its delicious traditional dishes.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Fort St. George

Discover the colonial history of Chennai at Fort St. George, the first English fortress in India
INR 200, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Annalakshmi Restaurant

Savor a fulfilling dinner at Annalakshmi, a pure vegetarian restaurant offering delectable South Indian cuisine.
INR 500, 1-2 hours

Day 2: Himalayan Delight

Darjeeling, India

8:00AM

Sunrise at Tiger Hill

Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas from Tiger Hill, a must-visit spot in Darjeeling.
INR 200, 2-3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Glenary's

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Glenary's, a charming bakery known for its fresh bakes and stunning views of Darjeeling.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Take a joy ride on the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the 'Toy Train', for a unique experience.
INR 800, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse wildlife at Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to rare Himalayan species.
INR 200, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Keventers

Indulge in a cozy dinner at Keventers, a vintage restaurant known for its delectable comfort food and signature beverages.
INR 700, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Mesmerizing Meghalaya

Shillong, India

8:00AM

Visit Elephant Falls

Begin your day by exploring the beautiful Elephant Falls, a popular cascading waterfall in Shillong surrounded by lush greenery.
INR 50, 1-2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Don Bosco Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India at the Don Bosco Museum, showcasing tribal artifacts and history.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Jiva Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Khasi meal at Jiva Restaurant, offering authentic local dishes in a cozy ambiance.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Shillong Peak

Embark on a scenic drive to Shillong Peak and witness panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills from the highest point in Shillong.
INR 30, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cafe Shillong

Dine at Cafe Shillong for a perfect end to the day, enjoying a mix of local and international cuisines in a vibrant setting.
INR 600, 1-2 hours

Day 4: Tranquil Punjab

Chandigarh, India

9:00AM

Visit Rock Garden

Start your day with a visit to the unique Rock Garden of Chandigarh, a masterpiece built from industrial and home waste materials.
INR 250, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Indian Coffee House

Enjoy a sumptuous meal at the iconic Indian Coffee House, known for its nostalgic ambiance and delicious regional fare.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Sukhna Lake

Relax by the serene Sukhna Lake, where you can take a boat ride or simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
INR 100, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pal Dhaba

Treat yourself to a delicious Punjabi dinner at Pal Dhaba, a local favorite known for its authentic North Indian cuisine.
INR 500, 1-2 hours

Day 5: Sacred Ganges

Haridwar, India

8:00AM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the sacred Har Ki Pauri ghat, a spiritual ritual by the Ganges River.
INR 0, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Chotiwala Restaurant

Relish a traditional Indian meal at Chotiwala Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Mansa Devi Temple

Visit the sacred Mansa Devi Temple perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Haridwar and the Ganges River.
INR 50, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Aarti at Mansa Devi Temple

Witness the serene evening aarti ceremony at Mansa Devi Temple, a peaceful and spiritual experience.
INR 0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hoshiyarpuri

Enjoy a flavorful dinner at Hoshiyarpuri, a local eatery serving authentic Punjabi and North Indian dishes.
INR 500, 1-2 hours

Day 6: Historic Capital

Delhi, India

9:00AM

Explore Red Fort

Begin your day by exploring the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of India's rich history.
INR 250, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Karim's

Indulge in Mughlai cuisine at Karim's, a legendary eatery serving delicious kebabs and biryanis near Jama Masjid.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Qutub Minar

Visit the historic Qutub Minar complex, a UNESCO site featuring the tallest brick minaret in the world and ancient ruins.
INR 250, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Chandni Chowk

Experience the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk, offering everything from spices to jewelry and traditional Indian attire.
INR 0, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Paranthe Wali Gali

Savor the famous parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali, a narrow street lined with shops serving delectable stuffed flatbreads.
INR 300, 1 hour

Day 7: Homeward Bound

Chennai, India

9:00AM

Visit Government Museum

Explore the Government Museum in Chennai, housing a diverse collection of art, archaeology, and numismatics.
INR 100, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop

Enjoy a final meal at Murugan Idli Shop before heading to the airport or train station for your journey back home.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop at T. Nagar

Browse through the bustling streets of T. Nagar for some last-minute shopping and souvenirs to remember your epic rail journey.
INR 0, 2 hours