Exploring the Iconic Temples of Tamil Nadu and Kerala: A 6-Day Rail Adventure

Day 1: Chennai Exploration

Chennai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your journey with a hearty South Indian breakfast of idli and sambar at Saravana Bhavan, a popular chain known for its authentic cuisine.
Take a local train or auto-rickshaw from your accommodation.
INR 150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Marvel at the exquisite Dravidian architecture of this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, adorned with intricate sculptures.
Navigate to the temple via auto-rickshaw from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Deccan Plaza

Enjoy a simple yet delicious thali featuring rice, dal, and vegetables—a perfect taste of Tamil Nadu.
Travel by local train to the restaurant.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Parakala Mutt

Experience the serene atmosphere of this historic temple setting and engage in the local culture.
Use local transport to reach Parakala Mutt.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Anjappar

Savor some spicy Chettinad chicken or vegetable curry at this well-known restaurant, a favorite among locals and tourists.
Head back using local transport.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Rest at Hotel

Retire for the night and prepare for the next day's journey.
Return to your accommodation.
INR 800 for the hotel, Rest
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Temple Town of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a simple dosa with chutney at a nearby café.
Walk from your hotel.
INR 100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple

Explore one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with its impressive 59-meter tower.
Take a local auto-rickshaw.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Refuel with a traditional vegetarian thali, a well-balanced meal reflecting regional flavors.
Head back via auto-rickshaw.
INR 200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Kamakshi Amman Temple

Admire the goddess Kamakshi as you delve into the temple's rich mythology and intricate carvings.
Take a short walk to the temple.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Guided Tour of Kanchipuram

Learn about the city's history and temple architecture through a guided tour.
Organize with a local guide upon arrival.
INR 500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Hot Chips

Grab a quick bite of traditional snacks followed by some filter coffee to wind down your day.
Travel back via local transport.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:00PM

Rest at Hotel

Relax and prepare for tomorrow's travel.
Return to your accommodation.
INR 800 for hotel stay, Rest
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Thanjavur Temples

Thanjavur, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast spread with fresh fruits, idli, and dosa.
Onsite in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Thanjavur

Catch an early train to Thanjavur, known for its UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple.
Walk to the nearby station for your train.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple

Experience the grandeur of this stunning temple, its massive gopurams, and impressive carvings.
Walk from the station to the temple.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Gnanam

Indulge in a delicious thali set—perfect for refueling your energy.
Take a local auto-rickshaw.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Thanjavur Palace

Explore the rich history and artistry of the Maratha kingdom at the palace complex.
Head to the palace via auto-rickshaw.
INR 100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check Out Local Artisans

Visit local craftsmen to see traditional Thanjavur painting being made.
Walk around the market area.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sree Pankaja Restaurant

Taste local cuisine with spicy curry and parotta to wrap up your day.
Use local transport to reach the restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:00PM

Rest at Hotel

Recharge for another day of temple exploration.
Return to your accommodation.
INR 800 for hotel stay, Rest
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Cultural Madurai

Madurai, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a filling breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a busy day ahead.
Onsite in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Madurai

Board your train to the next iconic city known for the Meenakshi Amman Temple.
Head towards the station.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of this historic temple, famous for its towering gopurams.
Walk to the temple from the station.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sri Preambalam

Enjoy a traditional meal featuring biryani and raita that reflects the culinary heritage of Madurai.
Travel to the restaurant via auto-rickshaw.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Tirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Explore this magnificent palace with its large courtyard and stunning architecture.
Take a short auto-rickshaw ride.
INR 50, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through the bustling local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
Walk to the market area from the palace.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kumar Mess

Try some authentic Madurai-style meals that will tantalize your taste buds.
Walk to the restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:00PM

Rest at Hotel

Take some time to unwind at your hotel as you prepare for the next day's adventure.
Return to your accommodation.
INR 800 for the hotel stay, Rest
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Journey to Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey to Kanyakumari.
Onsite in hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Kanyakumari

Board the train to Kanyakumari and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Head to the station.
INR 200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Kanyakumari Devi Temple

Visit the auspicious temple dedicated to the goddess Kanyakumari, situated at the southern tip of India.
Walk to the temple from the station.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Triveni Restaurant

Savor traditional meals at this renowned restaurant popular among tourists and locals alike.
Take a short walk.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to this iconic memorial and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea.
Catch a ferry from the nearby dock.
INR 50, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Kanyakumari Beach

Unwind at this beautiful beach before the sunset, a perfect time for some picturesque photographs.
Walk to the beach.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy sea-facing dining with delicious seafood and local dishes.
Walk to the restaurant.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:00PM

Rest at Hotel

End the day by resting at your hotel.
Return to your accommodation.
INR 800 for hotel stay, Rest
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Final Stop in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A satisfying breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for your last day.
Onsite in your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Trivandrum

Catch the train to Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala.
Travel to the station.
INR 150, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Explore the intricate architecture of this famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Use local transport to reach the temple.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aangan

Enjoy a delightful vegetarian meal highlighting local Kerala cuisine.
Travel to the restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Wander through the Kuthira Malika Palace Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of Travancore at this museum featuring royal artifacts.
Short walk from lunch.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Local Handicraft Shops

Discover beautiful handicrafts and souvenirs to take home from your travels.
Walk around the market area.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ariya Nivas

Dine in this renowned restaurant, known for its delectable vegetarian Kerala meals.
Travel to dinner via local transportation.
INR 400, 1 hour

8:00PM

Depart or rest at Hotel

You can choose to either depart for your next destination or rest if you’re extending your stay.
Return to your accommodation.
INR 800 for the hotel stay, Rest
View Hotel Availability