Discover Kochi, a historical Malabar port renowned for its spice trade past and as India's first European settlement. Your day includes a visit to the ancient St. Francis Church (16th century) and the iconic sight of traditional Chinese fishing nets. Enjoy free time to explore Kochi's attractions before experiencing the dynamic art of Kathakali, Kerala's classical dance-drama. Afterward, savor a delightful dinner at your hotel.

After breakfast, move to Munnar located at about 5,200 ft above the sea level. Munnar rolling hills covered in mist crisscrossed by the winding road, the dark emerald green colored plantation and the few lone houses in its midst of it will immediately make you fall in love with this place. It is also an ideal place for nature lovers, wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

If you want then indulge in boating, trekking and paragliding. Overnight stay.

Today, drive to Periyar National Park hanging high in the Cardamom Hills, the best-known wildlife sanctuary in South India, home to elephants, antelope, deer and many species of birdlife. Its diversity of flora and fauna, virgin lakes and impressive forests will surely make this visit most memorable.

Optionally wander leisurely through one of the area's spice plantations. You'll hear about the many different ways to use these spices in both medicines and in the preparation of food.

Today the drive to Alleppey reveals this tranquil backwater region of Kerala. Boarding a houseboat, you cruise along this very intricate network of canals, lakes, lagoons and rivers called the "Venice of the East." Monitor Kerala's rural lifestyle as you glide past tiny villages sprinkled with rice fields and witness a way of life that has changed little through the ages. With women washing clothes on the river banks while children play in the shallows and kingfishers dart among the palm trees. Night is on Houseboat.

Early morning hurry to board 2 hours train journey for Trivandrum.

Morning visit the well-renowned Napier Museum. This museum is an amalgamation of Mughal, Indian, and Chinese cultures. That being said, another highlight of this place is the natural air-conditioning system.

Secondly, visit the Sri Chitra Art Gallery. It exhibits rare paintings belonging to the Tanjore, Rajput, and Mughal school of art. The oriental collection of paintings hailing from Tibet, Bali, Japan, and China will give a refreshing perspective.

In the evening board your train for Madurai. On arrival get transferred to your hotel for overnight stay. 

After a tasty breakfast, we'll explore the ancient Meenakshi Amman Temple, a marvel of Dravidian architecture. Later, immerse yourselves in the vibrant bazaars surrounding the temple, perfect for finding unique treasures and jewelry before our lunch break.

In the afternoon, we'll visit the impressive Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace. Admire its grand courtyard, throne chambers, and the striking stone-carved horses at its entrance. This historical site offers a fascinating glimpse into Tamil Nadu's rich heritage before we proceed on our 13-day Kerala Tamil Nadu train tour

Board a scenic 2-hour train ride to Trichy, known for its historic and pilgrimage sites. Visit the Rock Fort Temple, built in 508 AD, and the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, originally constructed by the Dharma Varma Chola and later expanded by King Killivalavan. These temples offer a spiritual experience with their grandeur and history. After exploring, head to Tanjore for an overnight stay.

Today visit the famous Lord Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive building was built by King Raja Raja Cholan a thousand years back. This monument is considered among the splendid architectural accomplishments of South India.

Next visit the spectacular Maratha Palace, within a maze-like complex; walk through the open courtyard Art Gallery displaying priceless collections of superb Chola bronzes and stone carvings and visit the Saraswathi Mahal Library.

Morning you will by travelling by train to Pondicherry. On arrival at a railway station near Pondicherry you will be transferred to Puducherry.

Your journey along the coast takes you to enchanting Pondicherry, a former French colonial settlement that still retains its carefree French atmosphere and architectural legacy. In the charming Old Quarter, with its tree-lined cobbled streets, colonial villas are draped with fragrant bougainvillea, and sidewalk cafes abound. Even the policemen are dressed in traditional French red hats and belts!

Enjoy your French life in Pondicherry. Night stay is in Pondicherry

Today visit serene Auroville, City of Dawn famous for the meditation center inspired by the teachings of the Indian yogi Sri Aurobindo. Many spiritually minded visitors come here and stay to nurture his vision of human unity. Next, view the golden-domed Mother Temple. Later, tour a factory where delicate individually handcrafted papers are produced followed by a visit to Aurobindo Ashram. Take a rickshaw ride around the French, Hindu and Muslim quarters of Pondicherry.

In time you will be driven away to Mahabalipuram. Night stay is in Mahabalipuram

Today, explore Mahabalipuram, home to the 12th-century Shore Temple by the sea, with its striking bas-relief and twin towers. Visit the Five Rathas and Arjuna’s Penance, a massive bas-relief depicting the Ganges’ descent and scenes of daily life, showcasing early Southern Indian architecture. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at the beautiful beaches before an overnight stay.

As the captivating tapestry of our 13-day Kerala and Tamil Nadu train odyssey gently concludes, you'll be seamlessly transferred to Chennai airport. Carry with you indelible moments of sun-drenched backwaters, majestic temples, and the rhythmic chug of the rails, as you embark on your onward flight. Our services ends.