Southern Stories: Temples, Trains & Tranquility

Duration: 15 Nights - 16 Days
Places Covered: Arrival Trivandrum – Varkala – Alleppey – Cochin – Periyar – Madurai – Mysore – Hampi – Goa – Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Trivandrum – Gateway to Kerala

Welcome to Kerala, God's Own Country! Upon arrival at Trivandrum International Airport, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax after your journey or explore nearby local markets at your own pace.
Overnight in Trivandrum

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Day 02: TRIVANDRUM SIGHTSEEING & TRANSFER TO VARKALA

After breakfast, begin your day with a heritage and culture tour of Trivandrum:

• Visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest and most sacred temples in India.
• Explore the Napier Museum, showcasing a collection of ancient ornaments, bronze idols, and historical artifacts.
• Walk along Shangumugham Beach, known for its long shoreline and majestic sunset views.

Later, embark on a scenic drive to Varkala (approx. 1.5 hours), a serene coastal town famous for its dramatic red cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Highlights in Varkala:
Varkala Beach, Janardanaswamy Temple, and charming cliffside cafes offering ocean views and local delicacies.
Overnight in Varkala (Breakfast)

Day 03: VARKALA – DAY AT LEISURE

Today is yours to relax and rejuvenate in the peaceful setting of Varkala. Enjoy:

• Sunbathing and swimming at the beach
• Traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies
• Leisurely exploration of the local cliffside markets and cafés

Optional activities: Early morning yoga sessions, surfing lessons, or a short trek along the coastal cliffs.
Overnight in Varkala (Breakfast)

Day 04: VARKALA – ALLEPPEY (BACKWATER CRUISE EXPERIENCE)

After breakfast, check out and drive to Alleppey (approx. 3.5 hrs), the Venice of the East, renowned for its intricate network of canals, rivers, and lagoons.
On arrival, board your private traditional Kerala houseboat for a magical overnight cruise through the lush green backwaters, passing by charming villages, swaying coconut palms, and vibrant paddy fields.
Highlights:
Cruising through the Vembanad Lake, witnessing authentic village life, and enjoying freshly cooked Kerala cuisine onboard.
Overnight on Houseboat in Alleppey (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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Day 05: ALLEPPEY – COCHIN

Disembark after breakfast and drive to Cochin (approx. 1.5 hrs). The port city blends colonial heritage with vibrant culture.
Highlights: Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi, Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and Kathakali performance in the evening.
Overnight in Cochin (Breakfast)

Day 06: EXPLORE COCHIN – THE COLONIAL CHARM OF KERALA

Spend a full day soaking in the rich cultural heritage and coastal charm of Cochin (Kochi), a city that seamlessly blends Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences.
Highlights:

• Explore the Indo-Portuguese Museum, showcasing the Portuguese legacy in Kerala.
• Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India.
• Stroll through the quaint lanes of Jew Town and shop for antiques, spices, and handicrafts.
• Enjoy the vibrant cafes and boutiques along Princess Street.
• Optional: Witness a Kathakali dance performance in the evening.

Overnight in Cochin (Breakfast)

Day 07: COCHIN – PERIYAR (THEKKADY) – INTO THE SPICE HILLS

After breakfast, drive to Periyar (approx. 4.5 hrs), nestled in the Western Ghats, known for its wildlife sanctuary and aromatic spice plantations.
Highlights:

• Take a guided spice plantation tour, learning about cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
• Optional: Enjoy a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, spotting elephants, sambar deer, or even tigers along the forested banks.
• Unwind with an authentic Ayurvedic massage, rooted in Kerala’s healing traditions.

Overnight in Periyar (Breakfast)

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Day 08: EXPLORE PERIYAR – NATURE & WILDLIFE

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Thekkady, where forest, water, and wildlife converge.
Highlights:

• Choose a nature walk or bamboo rafting experience with a trained forest guide through Periyar Wildlife Reserve.
• Visit Elephant Junction for an interactive experience with elephants (feeding, bathing, or short rides).
• Explore the local spice market for fresh spices and handmade products.
• Optional cultural show: Kalaripayattu, a traditional Kerala martial art.

Overnight in Periyar (Breakfast)

Day 09: PERIYAR – MADURAI – JOURNEY INTO THE SOUL OF TAMIL NADU

Drive to Madurai (approx. 4 hrs), a city steeped in temple architecture, scholarly heritage, and spiritual devotion.
Highlights:

• Marvel at the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a Dravidian architectural masterpiece with its intricately carved towers.
• Visit the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th-century royal residence blending Indo-Saracenic styles.
• Stop by the Gandhi Memorial Museum, which chronicles the life of the Mahatma.

Overnight in Madurai (Breakfast)

Day 10: MADURAI – MYSORE (OVERNIGHT TRAIN)

Morning at leisure—explore local markets for silk sarees and temple souvenirs, or revisit the temple for a morning ritual.
In the evening, board the TN Mysuru Express (16235) for your overnight journey.
Departure: 20:10 from Madurai Jn
Arrival: 09:30 at Mysore Jn (26-Jan)
Overnight onboard train

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Day 11: ARRIVE MYSORE – THE ROYAL HERITAGE CITY

Arrive in Mysore, known for its palatial grandeur, cultural legacy, and vibrant markets.
Highlights:

• Visit the majestic Mysore Palace, one of India’s most stunning royal residences.
• Climb or drive up Chamundi Hills to visit the Chamundeshwari Temple and enjoy panoramic city views.
• Admire the Neo-Gothic St. Philomena’s Church, one of South India’s tallest churches.
• Browse colorful stalls at the Devaraja Market, known for its flowers, incense, and Mysore silk.

Overnight in Mysore (Breakfast)

Day 12: MYSORE – HAMPI (OVERNIGHT TRAIN)

After breakfast, visit the Brindavan Gardens, famous for its musical fountains and symmetry.
Later, board the Hampi Express (16592) for an overnight journey to Hospete.
Departure: 18:50 from Mysuru Jn
Arrival: 07:00 at Hospete Jn (28-Jan)
Overnight onboard train

Day 13: HAMPI – EXPLORE THE ANCIENT CAPITAL OF VIJAYANAGARA

Arrive in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with awe-inspiring ruins, temples, and surreal landscapes.
Highlights:

• Visit the sacred Virupaksha Temple, still active and central to Hampi’s religious life.
• Explore the Vittala Temple Complex, with its iconic Stone Chariot and musical pillars.
• Walk through the Hampi Bazaar and the Royal Enclosure, home to ancient royal structures.
• Sunset views from Hemakuta Hill or Matanga Hill.

Overnight in Hampi (Breakfast)

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Day 14: HAMPI – GOA (OVERNIGHT TRAIN)

Enjoy a relaxed morning or explore more ruins like the Elephant Stables, Lotus Mahal, or Queen’s Bath.
In the evening, board the Hyderabad–Vasco Express (17021) for your journey to Goa.
Departure: 19:55 from Hospete
Arrival: 04:15 at Vasco da Gama (30-Jan)
Overnight onboard train

Day 15: ARRIVE GOA – SUN, SAND & SEA

Early morning arrival in Goa, India’s favorite beach destination. Transfer to your beach resort and enjoy a laid-back day.
Highlights:

• Relax on the beaches of South or North Goa depending on your stay.
• Optional visits to Portuguese-era churches, Fort Aguada, or Latin Quarter of Panaji.
• Experience Goan cuisine, music, and nightlife.

Overnight in Goa (Breakfast)

Day 16: GOA – DEPARTURE

Transfer to Goa Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey with beautiful memories of your Temples, Trains & Tranquility journey across Southern India.