4-Day South India Temple and Coastal Train Journey: Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari, Madurai, and Thanjavur

Day 1: Rameshwaram Exploration

Rameshwaram, India on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Dhana, Rameshwaram

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast featuring idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this local favorite known for fresh ingredients.
INR150, 1h

9:30am

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore the massive temple famous for its long ornate corridors, sacred water tanks, and rich religious history, open from 5:30am to 1:00pm and 3:30pm to 9:00pm.
INR50, 2h

11:30am

Dhanushkodi Beach and Ruins

Take a short local taxi ride to the abandoned town of Dhanushkodi; explore the ruins and enjoy the scenic coastal views. Open access, no entry fee.
INR0, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Sri Murugan Mess

Sample authentic Tamil Nadu meals with flavorful biryanis and vegetarian curries in a modest setting beloved by locals.
INR250, 1h

3:00pm

Local Market Visit

Walk through the nearby Rameshwaram market to shop for handicrafts, religious souvenirs, and spices, open till evening.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Sangam

Enjoy a cozy dinner featuring seafood specialities and South Indian cuisine, perfect after a day of sightseeing.
INR300, 1h

Day 2: Kanyakumari Highlights

Kanyakumari, India on May 20, 2025

6:00am

Train to Kanyakumari from Rameshwaram

Early morning train journey covering approximately 5-6 hours, enjoy scenic views along the way.
INR300, 6h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Seashore

Relish fresh coastal seafood dishes including fish curry and prawn masala with a sea view ambiance.
INR350, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial & Thiruvalluvar Statue

Take a ferry ride (8am to 5pm) to these iconic monuments in the sea symbolizing Indian philosophy and literature.
INR100 ferry fee, 2h

4:30pm

Sunset at Kanyakumari Beach

Watch the stunning sunset where three seas meet; ideal for photography and evening strolls. Open all day.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Gajalee Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy delicious Malabari and South Indian coastal cuisine in a popular dinner spot.
INR400, 1h

Day 3: Madurai Temples

Madurai, India on May 21, 2025

7:00am

Train to Madurai from Kanyakumari

Morning train ride of about 3-4 hours, providing comfortable travel through scenic Tamil Nadu.
INR250, 4h

11:30am

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Taste soft idlis, crispy dosas and refreshing filter coffee at this iconic eatery loved by locals and tourists.
INR120, 1h

12:30pm

Meenakshi Amman Temple Visit

Explore this grand historic temple complex open from 5:00am to 1:00pm and 4:00pm to 10:00pm, renowned for its Dravidian architecture and sculptural beauty.
INR50, 2h

3:00pm

Lunch at Konar Mess

Enjoy traditional Tamil Nadu non-vegetarian dishes including mutton curry and biryani in a homely atmosphere.
INR300, 1h

4:30pm

Explore Gandhi Museum

Visit this museum housing exhibits on Mahatma Gandhi’s life; open 9am to 5pm and closed on Mondays.
INR20, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sathyanarayanasamy Hotel

Dine on flavorful vegetarian South Indian thalis and snacks, a delightful way to end the day.
INR250, 1h

Day 4: Thanjavur Culture

Thanjavur, India on May 22, 2025

7:00am

Train to Thanjavur from Madurai

Early morning train, approximately 3 hours of travel through fertile plains of Tamil Nadu.
INR200, 3h

10:00am

Breakfast at Sri Aryas

Enjoy hearty and authentic South Indian breakfast including pongal and vada along with filter coffee.
INR150, 1h

11:00am

Visit Brihadeeswarar Temple

Tour this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its magnificent Chola architecture and giant vimana tower, open 6:00am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 8:30pm.
INR50, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Sai Mahal

Savor a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, specializing in Tamil Nadu cuisine prepared traditionally.
INR300, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Thanjavur Palace and Art Gallery

Explore the royal exhibits featuring South Indian art, historical artifacts, and sculptures, open till 5pm. Entry fee applies.
INR30, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ngaluvechi

End with a wholesome meal serving local and continental cuisine in a charming setting.
INR350, 1h