Toy Trains & Tamil Nadu

15 days from £7,500 for 2024 per person

• Chennai
• Coonoor
• Dindigul
• Chettinad
• Tanjore
• Pondicherry
• Mahabalipuram

This journey encapsulates the very essence of Tamil Nadu, providing a comprehensive insight into its Dravidian roots, imperial past and rural charms.

Begin by exploring the colonial centre of Chennai, formerly Madras, the soul of South India, and keeper of artistic, religious and culinary Tamil traditions. From Chennai fly to Coimbatore and head north to the rolling forested Nilgiri Hills. Just here, where the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka meet, are three hill stations, the most famous of which is Ooty. Take the popular Toy Train, a pin-and-ratchet railway, to explore this timeless Raj-era town, soaking up its old-world charm and colonial history. From your base in Coonoor, you will then travel south to Dindigul in the heart of Tamil Nadu. This quaint and quiet area of the Palani Hills, off the beaten track and untouched by tourist influence, offers a true insight to local South Indian village life.

Leaving behind the quiet pace of life and cool climes, travel onto dazzling Madurai one of the oldest cities in India and often referred to as ‘the city that never sleeps’. At the heart of it all is the Meenakshi Temple, a maze-like structure ranking among India's greatest temples. Your journey will then take you onto the unusual Chettinad region, with the extraordinary Art Deco mansions which will capture your heart, before being swept off your feet with more magnificent Hindu temple complexes in Tanjore. Capital of the great Chola empire during its heyday, the past is still very much present with thousands of people flocking to worship at the Cholas' grand Brihadeeswarar Temple daily.

The final leg of your journey will take you to the quiet historic French town of Pondicherry, which still holds onto its charming colonial roots. Finish with a couple of days in the relaxed town of Mahabalipuram, where you can combine the impressive UNESCO sites with some relaxing time on the beach.

This comprehensive tour of Tamil Nadu is purely a suggested itinerary; it can be booked as it is or alternatively used as a starting point for creating your own ideal tour of India. If you'd like to see similar trips, take a look at our collection of Epic Journeys, as well as our favourite Active and Family-Friendly itineraries.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson