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Southern India by Rail
Operated by Wendy Wu
Tripcode: ISR_AU
Overview
Destination:
India,
Start:Chennai (and vicinity), India
Finish:Bengaluru (and vicinity), India
Finish:Bengaluru (and vicinity), India
Duration:15 days
Type:Group tour (max 28)
Travel Period
October 2025 - December 2026
Traveling by rail in southern India offers a captivating journey through diverse landscapes, cultures, and heritage. From the bustling Chennai Central to the verdant hills of Mysuru, the train traverses Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, showcasing a seamless transformation of scenery, from sun-drenched coastlines to lush, palm-fringed backwaters. This experience goes beyond geography, providing a glimpse into the heart and soul of southern India.
Price notes:
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately US$100pp (AU$149pp) is paid locally in India.
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
Standard inclusions
- Domestic transportation
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Touring with guides and entrance fees
- Standard group visa fees included and fees may apply for foreign passport holders or other visas
Itinerary
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Collapse allDay 1: Fly to Chennai
Fly to Chennai, transferring to your hotel on arrival. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.
Day 2: Explore Mahabalipuram
Start today with an exploration of the ancient temples and intricately adorned monuments, providing insight into the architectural wonders of Kanchipuram and the coastal allure of Mahabalipuram.
Day 3: Travel to Tanjore
After breakfast, you will transfer to Chennai Station, where you will step aboard the Trichy-bound Tejas Express. Sit back and enjoy the picturesque landscapes while you head south. On arrival you will transfer to Tanjore for the night.
Day 4: Travel to Madurai
Drive to Madurai, with an intriguing detour through Chettinad to learn about tile-making and to wander through the local market. Enjoy a hands-on cooking lesson, savouring the flavours of Chettinad cuisine, which culminates in a delightful lunch experience. Upon reaching Madurai, the evening unfolds as you experience an Arti Ceremony at Minakshi Temple, a spiritual and cultural spectacle.
Day 5: Explore Madurai
A day of exploration that starts with a sightseeing tour of Madurai. Discover Thirumalai Nayaka Palace, a historical gem resonating with the splendour of a bygone era before engaging in a delightful Food Trail Tour, to relish the diverse and flavourful culinary delights that Madurai is known for.
Day 6: Travel to Trivandrum
Following breakfast, you'll transfer to the railway station to board the PJ TVC Express bound for Trivandrum. Upon reaching Trivandrum, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the city with a visit to the iconic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a site of profound cultural and religious significance.
Day 7: Travel to Kanyakumari
Enjoy a day trip to Kanyakumari, where you will marvel at the convergence of the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal. Discover the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue, iconic landmarks adorning the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, before returning to Trivandrum.
Day 8: Kerala Backwaters
After breakfast take a drive to Alleppey, where you will board a traditional houseboat, locally referred to as a Kettuvallam. Cruise through the captivating backwaters, enveloped by verdant scenery and swaying palm trees. The soothing rhythm of the tranquil waters provide an ideal backdrop for an overnight stay.
Day 9: Travel to Cochin
Disembark and drive to Cochin, a city rich in history and culture. Enjoy a city tour that explores significant landmarks, historical sites, and lively local markets. In the evening, delve into the realm of Kathakali, an ancient dance form merging intricate facial expressions, graceful motions, and vibrant attire.
Day 10: Travel to Ooty
After breakfast transfer to the rain station to board the SBC Intercity Express heading to Coimbatore. Upon reaching Coimbatore you will continue by coach to Ooty where you will check in at your hotel.
Day 11: Toy Train
Following breakfast, commence a picturesque and iconic voyage from Ooty to Coonoor, on the infamous toy Train. Meandering through the enchanting Nilgiri Hills, the journey unfolds breath taking views of landscapes, tea plantations, and quaint villages. Take the time to discover the Botanical Gardens in Coonoor before returning to Ooty.
Day 12: Bangalore
Return to the railway station in Coimbatore to catch the SBC Intercity Express headed for Bangalore. Upon reaching Bangalore, transfer to your hotel before dinner.
Day 13: Explore Bangalore
Start the day with a city tour of Bangalore, immersing yourself in the modernity and tradition that characterizes this lively city. Explore prominent landmarks, cultural sites and attractions that showcase the city's rich heritage and essence.
Day 14-15: Depart Bangalore
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, arriving back to Australia a day later.
Departure dates
Select your preferred date or enquire
Operator
Wendy Wu
Wendy Wu Tours is Australia's leading touring specialist, offering extraordinary tours throughout Asia, Latin America, Eurasia, the Middle East – and most recently, Australasia. Since Wendy sent her very first tour to China in 1994, we've grown from strength to strength and are proud of the multiple awards we've won throughout the years and the unique travel experiences we offer to an expanding range of destinations.
Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice.
For more information, please see Terms of Use
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14 nights
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