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Southern India & Karnataka by Rail
10 days, Goa to Kochi
Itinerary Notes
Want to experience the sights and sounds of Holi? Make sure you’re in India on March 10, 2020 or March 29, 2021 for the nation’s most colourful festival.
Itinerary
Day 1Goa
Arrive at any time.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2Goa
Spend a free day relaxing on the beach or opt to visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), or discover Panjim, the capital. Don't forget to indulge in Goan cuisine.
Free Time
Explore all Goa has to offer.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Old Goa Visit
1600INR per groupExplore the rich history and impressive architecture of Old Goa, the former colonial capital of the state. The convents and churches are stunning, and the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which contains the relics of St Francis Xavier.
Panjim Visit
Walk through the Latin Quarter or by the river of this charming capital city. Take a short boat ride, visit a casino, or just relax and take in the chilled out vibe. Don't forget to eat some delicious Goan food, but watch out -- it can be spicy.
Goa Beach Visit
FreeRelax on some soft, white sand -- Goa's beaches are famous the world over for good reason. Hydrate with a smoothie or fresh coconut water.
Day 3Goa/Hampi
Travel by Visakhapatnam Howrah Express train and then by van to reach Hampi, in the heart of Karnataka.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4Hampi/Mysore
Enjoy a walking tour and explore the spectacular ruins of Hampi Palaces, Vittala Temple complex, Virupaksh Temple, Hazararama Temple, and the boulders on the river. In the evening, take an overnight Hampi Express train to Mysore.
Hampi Ruins Walking Tour
Explore the spectacular ruins of Hampi Palaces, Hazararama Temple, and the boulders on the river on this walking tour.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Overnight Train (beds)
Stretch out and get some well-earned rest en route to the next stop.
Day 5Mysore
Arrive to Mysore and explore the Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hill.
Mysore Palace Visit
This stunning palace was the home of the Maharajas of Mysore, the former royal family, which ruled from 1399 to 1950. Learn about the rich history of Indian royalty and soak in the splendor of an era long gone.
Chamundi Hills Visit
Enjoy a visit to the gorgeous temple devoted to the Hindu goddess, Chamundi, located on Chamundi Hill.
Day 6Mysore/Madikeri
Drive to Bylakuppe and explore the Namdroling Monastery - home to nearly 5,000 Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns. Later drive to Madikeri for the evening.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Namdroling Monastery Visit
Home to nearly 5,000 Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns, Namdroling Monastery is known as a centre for teachings of the Buddha and the Nyingma tradition - the oldest of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 7Madikeri
Explore Madikeri (the coffee hub of India) and enjoy a tour of a coffee plantation. Later, enjoy an orientation walk around the town and then enjoy free time to explore in the afternoon.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Free Time
Explore Madikeri with free time this afternoon.
Coffee Plantation Tour
Head out into the hills to visit one of the many coffee plantations in the region. Learn about the production process and have a sample or two of the locally-grown coffee while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Day 8Madikeri/Kochi
Take a morning drive to the coastal town of Kannur. Catch the Ernakulam Express to Kochi in the afternoon.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Day 9Kochi
Explore the Fort Kochi area and see the Chinese fishing nets at work. If time permits, visit the Jewish area and synagogue, the Dutch Palace, and Spice Market.
Fort Kochi Visit
Enjoy your stay in charming Fort Kochi, which evokes an era long gone. Walk through the cobblestone streets, visit delightful tea houses, and have a relaxing drink while sitting by the water. Be sure to check out Vasco de Gama's tombstone and the famous blue synagogue.
Chinese Fishing Nets Visit
Check out these magnificent fishing nets, which are an icon of Kochi. They were gifted to the Kochi King by Chinese Emperor Kubalagi in the 14th century as the two empires were trading partners.
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Jewish Synagogue
10INR per personEnjoy a visit to this gorgeous synagogue located in an area of Fort Kochi known as Jew town. Built in 1567 by Sephardic Jews, it is the only functioning synagogue in Kochi today.
Kochi Spice Market
Tantalize your senses and tickle your taste buds with a trip to the Kochi Spice Market. Cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin galore!
Dutch Palace Visit
Explore the grounds of this gorgeous white palace built in 1555, also known as the Mattancherry Palace. Check out the intricate and extremely well preserved murals, depicting tales from Hindu mythology. Get a taste of life as a Kochi royal by looking at elaborate palanquins and bejewelled clothing on display here.
Day 10Kochi
Depart at any time.