Southern India & East Coast by Rail

It’s common knowledge that India is a huge tourist destination — so what do you do if you want to get off the beaten path and check out some underexplored parts of the country? Get on the train, of course. Hop on board and go from the deep south of Kochi up the east coast towards bustling Kolkata, disembarking to explore temples and palaces along the way. You’ll have the chance to explore smaller cities and villages on the coast, getting a perspective on this country that few have the opportunity to experience. Once you’ve lived like a local hopping off and back on the train for your next adventure, you’ll be seeing India in a brand new light.

Day 1 Kochi
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Kochi/Alleppey
Take the early train to Alleppey to explore the Kerala backwaters. Walk in the paddy fields and take a canoe ride through the canals the region is famous for.

Day 3 Alleppey/Kanyakumari
Enjoy some more time in Kerala before an evening train to Kanyakumari for a full day exploring the area.

Day 4 Kanyakumari/Madurai
Spend the day in Kanyakumari. Drive to the southernmost tip of India and take a ferry across to Vivekananda Rock and the Ramkrishna Ashram. Take an evening Kanyakumari Express train to Madurai.

Day 5 Madurai
Explore the Meenakshi Temple and colourful markets of Madurai.

Day 6 Madurai/Māmallapuram
Take the morning Vaigai Express to Chengalpattu before continue by van to Mamallapuram.

Day 7 Māmallapuram
Cycle around and explore the rock-cut Shore Temple and Mamallapuram Beach.

Day 8 Māmallapuram/Chennai
Drive to Chennai and explore Marina Beach and San Thome Basilica. Later, board an overnight train to Hyderabad.

Day 9 Hyderabad
Learn more about the region's history with a visit to the iconic Charminar and historic Golconda Fort.

Day 10 Hyderabad/Puri
Enjoy a free morning to continue exploring this state capital before catching an evening flight to Bhubaneshwar. Continue by van to reach Puri.

Day 11 Puri
Explore Raghuraj Pur village and beautiful Puri beaches.

Day 12 Puri/Calcutta
Take a morning Shatabdi Express train to Kolkata, with lunch provided on board. Arrive in the afternoon and take an orientation walk with the CEO.

Day 13 Calcutta
Explore the vintage monuments and streets of this former capital of the British Era, also visit Missionaries' of Charity the noble peace prize winner, Mother Teresa’s house and final resting place.. Opt to take a ferry ride across the Hooghly River. Opt to join the group for dinner at one of the famed restaurants on Park Street for the final night out.

Day 14 Calcutta
Depart at any time.