South India by Train: Exploring Kanchipuram, Arunachalam, Rameshwaram & Kanyakumari

Day 1: Heritage Temples

Kanchipuram, India on May 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy traditional South Indian breakfast including idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this renowned chain open from 7 AM.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30AM

Visit Kamakshi Amman Temple

Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a prominent spiritual site with stunning Dravidian architecture.
INR50, 1h30m

11:30AM

Explore Ekambareswarar Temple

Experience one of Kanchipuram’s largest Shiva temples, known for its impressive gopurams and sacred mango tree.
INR50, 1h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Gandhi Park

Taste authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine in a relaxed setting with popular dishes like sambar rice and rasam.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30PM

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Admire the oldest structural temple in Kanchipuram built in the 8th century, renowned for its detailed carvings.
INR50, 1h0m

4:00PM

Shopping for Kanchipuram silk sarees

Explore shops in Kanchipuram’s famous textile market to buy exquisite silk sarees, a local specialty.
Free to browse, cost varies on purchase, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan)

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian South Indian dinner at this popular restaurant open until 10 PM.
INR350, 1h0m

Day 2: Spiritual Hill

Tiruvannamalai (Arunachalam Hill), India on May 21, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day early with a simple South Indian breakfast at your accommodation, preparing for the climb.
INR250, 1h0m

8:30AM

Arunachala Hill Climb

Hike up Arunachala Hill, famous for its spiritual significance and panoramic views from the summit.
Free, 3h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at Ramana's Ashram Canteen

Enjoy a wholesome vegetarian meal at the ashram’s canteen, open from 11 AM to 3 PM.
INR150, 1h0m

1:30PM

Visit Sri Ramana Ashram

Explore the peaceful ashram dedicated to sage Ramana Maharshi, a center for meditation and spiritual learning.
Free, 1h30m

3:30PM

Explore Local Markets

Browse local handicrafts and souvenirs in Tiruvannamalai’s markets, offering traditional goods.
Free to browse, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Silver Spoon Restaurant

Dine on flavorful South Indian and North Indian vegetarian cuisine at this popular eatery open until 10 PM.
INR350, 1h0m

Day 3: Island Temple City

Rameshwaram, India on May 22, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast on the train or at station

Light breakfast options available on train or station vendors before arrival in Rameshwaram.
INR100, 0h30m

9:00AM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Discover this iconic temple with the longest corridor in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva, open from early morning.
INR50, 2h0m

11:30AM

Explore Agni Theertham

Walk to this sacred water spot by the sea where pilgrims take holy dips.
Free, 1h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Sri Murugan

Enjoy fresh and tasty South Indian meals with a coastal twist open during lunchtime.
INR400, 1h0m

2:30PM

Visit Dhanushkodi Beach

Relax at this serene beach town, a short drive from Rameshwaram, known for its scenic views and history.
Free, 2h0m

6:30PM

Dinner at Sakthi Restaurant

Traditional Tamil cuisine with great local seafood options, open until 9 PM.
INR450, 1h0m

Day 4: Southern Tip

Kanyakumari, India on May 23, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel in Kanyakumari

Start with a hearty South Indian breakfast including uttapam and coconut chutney.
INR300, 1h0m

8:30AM

Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Take a ferry to this iconic monument dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, and enjoy mesmerising ocean views. Ferry services start at 8 AM.
INR100 (ferry), 2h0m

11:00AM

Explore Thiruvalluvar Statue

View the massive statue of Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar located near the Vivekananda Memorial.
Included with ferry ticket, 1h0m

12:30PM

Lunch at Sea View Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and South Indian cuisine with ocean views, open for lunch from noon.
INR450, 1h0m

2:00PM

Visit Kanyakumari Beach and Sunset Point

Relax by the beach and enjoy the famous sunset at the southernmost tip of India. Best visited in late afternoon to evening.
Free, 2h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Saratha

End your day with traditional Tamil dishes in a cozy setting, open till 9 PM.
INR350, 1h0m