Southern India by Rail
Kathkali Dance Performance - Witness an exuberant performance of the traditional dance-drama that is Kathakali. Kerala's best-known performing art, it is an extravagant retelling of Hindu epics complete with colourful costumes and elaborate make up.
Overnight on a Kettuvallam - Staying overnight on a Kettuvallam in Kerala offers a memorable experience. These traditional houseboats provide comfortable accommodation, scenic views, and delicious Kerala cuisine. Enjoy the tranquility of the backwaters, relax on the deck, and witness stunning sunsets and sunrises, as you interact with local life.
Toy Train Ride - The Ooty to Coonoor toy train, part of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its small size and charming appeal, the train offers breathtaking views of Nilgiri Hills, tea plantations, and picturesque landscapes. Passing through stations like Lovedale and Wellington, it uses a cog-wheel system to navigate steep terrains. The journey concludes in Coonoor, a beautiful hill station with attractions like Sim's Park and Dolphin's Nose
Chennai (2N) - Tanjore (1N) - Madurai (2N) - Trivandrum (2N) - Houseboat (1N) - Kochi (1N) - Ooty (2N) - Bangalore (2N)
- International flights (prices may vary depending on departure city)
- All domestic transportation
- All meals
- Breakfasts: 13 /Lunches: 12 /Dinners: 13
- 4* accommodation
- Touring with guides and entrance fees
- Visa fees for AU passport holders
Your fare excludes:
- Travel insurance
Day 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.
Includes: Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Travel To Cochin
Disembark and 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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, 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.
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14-15: Depart Bangalore
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, arriving back to Australia a day later.
Includes: Breakfast
* The above itinerary is subject to change.
- 20 Nov 2024 - 04 Dec 2024
from $7,980 pp twin share / $9,560 pp solo - 23 Jan 2025 - 05 Feb 2025
from$8,550$7,550 pp twin share /$10,200/ $9,200 pp solo - 20 Feb 2025 - 05 Mar 2025
from$8,550$7,550 pp twin share /$10,200/ $9,200 pp solo - 16 Oct 2025 - 29 Oct 2025
from$8,550$7,550 pp twin share /$10,200/ $9,200 pp solo - 13 Nov 2025 - 26 Nov 2025
from$8,550$7,550 pp twin share /$10,200/ $9,200 pp solo - 04 Dec 2025 - 17 Dec 2025
from$8,550$7,550 pp twin share /$10,200/ $9,200 pp solo - 22 Jan 2026 - 04 Feb 2026
from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,560 pp solo - 19 Feb 2026 - 04 Mar 2026
from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,560 pp solo - 26 Mar 2026 - 08 Apr 2026
from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,560 pp solo - 15 Oct 2026 - 28 Oct 2026
from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,560 pp solo - 12 Nov 2026 - 25 Nov 2026
from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,560 pp solo - 03 Dec 2026 - 16 Dec 2026
from $8,880 pp twin share / $10,560 pp solo
Advertised pricing subject to departure date and availability. Please call 1300 414 198 to confirm up-to-the-moment availability and pricing.
Residency Hotel - Chennai, India
The Residency Hotel is a short distance to the city’s corporate and shopping areas. The en-suite rooms feature modern amenities including, TV and and tea/coffee facilities. A breakfast buffet is served daily in the Spice Bar, which also offers lunch and dinner, with guests also having the option to order a la carte from the Chin Chin restaurant.
Hotel Sangam - Tanjore, India
Perfectly located within walking distance to the Brihadeeshwara, Bangaru Kamakshi and Thiruvanajozhi Temples, the Sangam hotel offers guests an ideal stay during their adventures in Tanjore. The hotel is home to a range of facilities, including a multi-cuisine restaurant, vibrant bar and swimming pool. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi as well as a minibar and tea/ coffee making services, completed with modern furnishing.
Heritage Madurai - Madurai
Perfectly located within the heart of the city, Heritage Madurai is the embodiment of historic charm. As a guest at the Heritage Madurai, you will be in close proximity to the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Gandhi Memorial Museum plus much more. Your room is laced in modern yet traditional influences and features Wi-Fi, a minibar, tea and coffee maker as well as air conditioning.
Uday Suites - Trivandrum
Immerse yourself in serene ambience and lush greenery at the Uday Suites Hotel, that provides a resort-like setting amidst a vibrant city. In close proximity to a number of Temples and popular attractions such as the Shri Chitra Art Gallery, the hotel offers plenty of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, spa & wellness facilities and games & recreation area.
AC Deluxe Houseboat - Allepy, India
Located in Allepy, the traditional 80 feet long crafts have been adapted into luxuriously furnished houseboats. Each houseboat is beautifully decorated with coir mattress on the floor. Modern comforts include a spacious living/dining area and sun deck, with an airy passage and neat kitchen. Clean towels and blankets are also provided.
The Casino Hotel - Cochin, India
Located within the historic Willingdon island of Kochi, The Casino Hotel is just a 10-minute drive from the vibrant city centre. The 4* hotel boasts cosmopolitan yet traditional finishes and is home to fine dining, rejuvenating wellness therapies and a salt mineral water swimming pool. Rooms here are spacious, allowing for a comfortable stay, equipped air conditioning, minibar and flatscreen TV.
Fortune Resort Sullivan Court - Ooty, India
Located within the scenic surroundings of Ooty, the 4* Fortune Resort Sullivan Court is a modern-day tribute to the founder of the city, John Sullivan. The resort is just 1km from the city centre and provides a wide selection of facilities to guests, including restaurants, serving flavours of India as well as cuisines from around the world, as well as a contemporary bar, spa and gym. Rooms are beautifully furnished and equipped with a minibar, coffee and tea maker as well as air conditioning and flatscreen TV.
Adarsh Hamilton Hotel - Bangalore, India
Situated in a quiet neighbourhood off Richmond Circle in the heart of Bangalore's Central Business District, Adarsh Hamilton Hotel offers luxurious en-suite rooms featuring modern amenities including, TV, tea/coffee facilities and a safety deposit box. Superb facilities include a restaurant, free Wi-Fi and fitness centre.
Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 10 January 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately US$150pp (AU$224pp) 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.