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IRCTC Launches 7-Night South India Tour Package At Just ₹45,260 Including Flights, Meals And Stay

Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation is back with an exciting and luxurious trip and this time they are taking the tourists to explore the beautiful destinations of South India. IRCTC launched this affordable air package recently under the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ and ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiatives. Under this IRCTC package, travellers will explore some of the most iconic and famous destinations of South India, and also a couple of sacred temples. If exploring South India is on your mind, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Everything You Need To Know About This IRCTC Package:

The name of this 6 nights and 7 days package is ‘South India Divine Tour Package Ex Delhi’. The journey will begin in the national capital. IRCTC is taking on 2 trips under this package. The first tour starting date is 19 August 2022 and the second is 16 September 2022. Under this package, IRCTC will provide the passengers with everything starting from flight tickets, hotel rooms, insurance, meals (breakfast & dinner), darshan tickets, and buses to explore various destinations. They will visit Padmanabhaswamy temple, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Ramanathaswamy Temple, Meenakshi Temple, Lord Balaji Temple, and Sri Kalahasti. This South India tour package starts from ₹45,260 per person.

Also read:  Air Packages By IRCTC To These Stunning Indian Destinations Cost Less Than ₹35,000

Discover immense peace & tranquility with IRCTC South India Air tour package covering the beautiful Ramanathaswamy Temple, Meenakashi Temple, Lord Balaji Temple & more at ₹47190/- pp* on Double Occupancy for 7D/6N. Book now on https://t.co/Bl5byLwNBP @AmritMahotsav #AzadiKiRail — IRCTC (@IRCTCofficial) July 20, 2022

Itinerary Of The Trip:

• The journey of this holiday will begin in Delhi. On day 1, travellers will board the Indigo flight at 09:55 am and they will reach the Tirupati airport by 01:55 pm. The first day will be all about exploring Sri Kalahasti Temple. After reaching Tirupati, they will check into rooms and spend the night there.
• Day 2 starts early with breakfast and then travelling to Tirumala for Darshan. After the Darshan, they will return back and check out from the hotel room and proceed to Padmavati Temple.  Afterward, they will travel to Chennai and spend the night there.
• On day 3, tourists will start the morning with breakfast and then reach Chennai Airport to board a flight at 11:40 am to reach the Thiruvananthapuram Airport. This day will be spent in leisure after arriving. Travellers will visit Kovalam Beach in the evening. The night will end with an overnight stay at Trivandrum.

Also read:  Explore Kerala And Stay In A Houseboat At Just ₹15,420 With IRCTC

• Day 4 will be all about exploring Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kanyakumari, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kumari Amman Temple, and Sunset Point.
• On day 5, tourists will travel to Rameshwaram post breakfast. They will explore Danushkodi Beach that day.
• Day 6 will start early with visiting the Ramanathaswamy Temple. After darshan and enjoying breakfast, travellers will travel toward Madurai. On the way, they will visit the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial. This day will be quite slow with shopping and walking around in Madurai.
• Day 7 will start with a morning visit to Meenakshi Temple. With this, the journey will come to an end. Tourists will board a flight at 02:40 pm. They will reach the Delhi Airport by 06:10 pm.

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South India Tour Package From Delhi

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Alleppey tour

A Traditional Dish

Backwaters in Alleppey

Hotel Star Rating

Month of Travel

• Munnar (2D)
• Alleppey (2D)
• Thekkady (1D)

5 Days & 4 Nights

Starting from:

₹ 18,787 /- ₹ 20,421 /-

Per Person on twin sharing

Price Inclusive of

Sightseeing

Stay Included

Book our South India tour packages from Delhi for an entrancing trip with your friends and family. South India is one of the conspicuous traveler’s goals of India, with backwaters, hill stations, shorelines, Ayurvedic industry and tropical greenery as its real attractions. Our South India Tour package gives considerable time to explore the spot, visit South India's noteworthy attractions and gain the best experiences here. Tourist attractions like the Frothy cascades, Rose Garden, Eravikulam National park, Stay on the houseboat and so forth, as those spots are the best ones to visit and furthermore may bring peacefulness into your life.

Valara falls, which is found enrouteMunnar, is a sight to retain. These cascades are encompassed by rich, thick backwoods and it takes a decent measure of trekking to achieve the base of the falls. You'd be driving nearby the immense stretches of tea ranches, pioneer cottages, and foamy cascades with a cool wind touching your face. The sound of the Cheeyappara falls is very elating. This visit likewise incorporates a visit to Eravikulam National Park, apart from Tahr, the recreation center is a residence other minimal referred to fauna. The most astounding top in peninsular India, Anamudi (2695 m), is located in this park. The parked transport will take you through the entire park and you could have a great time the greatness of nature enveloping you. Also, visit Rose Garden, Photo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Elephant Arrival Point, and Echo Point, cruising the backwaters of Alleppey on the houseboat through beautiful lakes to get an incredible encounter of the place and make the best of your outing.

Book this South India tour packages from Delhi  to have an awesome time with your beloved.

• Enjoy the view of Cheeyappara Waterfalls
• Know about the history of tea at Tata Tea Museum
• Take a relaxing tour of the spice plantations
• Cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat

Cochin to Munnar, Sightseeing En Route

• Arrive at Cochin Airport/Railway Station/Bus Station
• Be greeted by a representative
• Get transferred to Munnar
• En route, visit spice plantations and Valara and Cheeyappara Falls
• Check-in at the hotel in Munnar once you arrive

Munnar: SightseeingMunnar: Sightseeing

• Munnar Local Sightseeing
• Visit Eravikulam National Park, Tata Tea Museum, Rose Garden, Photo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Elephant Arrival Point, Echo Point, and the Indo Swiss Project (entrance is subject to prior permission)
• Get back to the hotel after all the sightseeing
• Enjoy shopping at the local market on your own

Thekkady: Arrival and Safari

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Breakfast and check-out
• Transfer to Thekkady
• Arrival and check-in at the hotel
• Safari in Periyar National Park
• Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Alleppey: Arrival and Houseboat Stay

• Houseboat Stay
• Proceed to Alleppey
• Check-in at the houseboat and relax
• Relish Lunch meal
• Cruise along the backwaters

Alleppey: Departure

• Journey back to Cochin
• Board Flight/train/bus back home

Cheyappara falls

Have a lovely stay

A delightful journey through the greenery helps you rejuvenate!

When you arrive at the Kochi air terminal or at the Ernakulam Railway Station, our representative will pick you up and take you to the hotel in Munnar. An awesome ride in a cab towards Munnar through the beautiful greenery filled roads will bring serenity to your hearts. Mother Nature in its magnificent excellence in the fall of Valara and Cheeyaparra presents its lavish green manors. Check-in to the hotel in Munnar upon reaching the heavenly place and unwind in the hotel and explore the streets at your leisure during the evenings. Get a good night’s sleep to feel rejuvenated for the next day.

Other Benefites

Beautiful tea garden

Eravikulam National Park

Explore Munnar

After a delectable breakfast in the hotel, head towards Eravikulam National Park. This park should be visited when in Munnar, as this beautiful place, the home of the Nilgiri Tahr (a type of a mountain Goat), with rich greenery all over. The following stop is the Tea Museum by Tata Tea, where you will get the chance to comprehend the subtleties of tea making yet, in addition, get the opportunity to taste the tea.

Visit Rose Garden, Photo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Elephant Arrival Point, Echo Point, Indo Swiss Project (entrance is liable to earlier consent). When you are finished with the day's touring binge, come back to the hotel for quite a while for relaxation.

Periyar Tiger Reserve

The stunning view of nature brings tranquillity to the hearts at Thekkady

Start the day with a filling breakfast at the hotel in Munnar and afterward check-out of the hotel and head towards the enticing Thekkady. Upon reaching, check-in to the hotel in Thekkady. Unwind for some time and after that prepare for an amazing adventure in a jeep safari in Periyar National Park. Spend time amidst the intriguing assortment of widely varied vegetation in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. Afterward, you will likewise get the opportunity to visit the Periyar Lake which is encompassed by the thick woods of Thekkady and is an extraordinary spot for entertaining yourself with sailing. Try bamboo rafting on your own. You can then go back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Alleppey sunset

Get awestruck by the backwaters of the Venice of the East, Alleppey!

After a sumptuous breakfast, check-out from the hotel. Begin your journey towards Alleppey. Upon reaching, check-in to the houseboat and unwind for a brief period. Post lunch, experience cruising the backwaters of Alleppey on the houseboat through stunning lakes, tidal ponds, and waterways. In the wake of cruising through the flawless backwaters, relish a delightful supper, after which you can have an overnight stay on the boat.

A sweet end to South India tour packages from Delhi

After a delicious breakfast, check-out of the houseboat and begin your journey to Cochin. You will be dropped at the airport/railway station/bus station.

Hotel sandra palace

Kumily - Near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, OPP. LOURDE CHURCH, THEKKADY JN

Golden petals houseboat

R.K.V Tours, Pallathuruthy Sanathanapuram Near Pallathuruthy Bridge

Misty river resort

Chithirapuram Powerhouse Road, 685565 Munnar, India

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

• 04 Nights Accommodation at the Mentioned Hotels or Similar: 02 Nights at Munnar, 01 Night at Thekkady & 01 Night at Alleppey
• Daily breakfast in the Hotel
• Houseboat Exclusively for you with all Meals which Includes welcome Drink, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Evening Tea with Snacks
• Houseboat Check-In at 12Noon and cruises till 5.30PM. Boat will be anchored till 7 A.M. and cruises for Check-Out at 9A.M. For A/C Houseboat, A/C will be operating from 9 PM to 6 AM only
• Pick-up & Drop from Cochin Airport/Railway Station/Bus Station
• Transportation as mentioned with an English/Hindi speaking friendly driver cum guide throughout your trip
• All Transfers & Sightseeing by Air-conditioned Vehicle
• Road taxes, parking fees, fuel charges, interstate taxes
• Expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone / fax calls, alcoholic beverages
• Camera/video camera fees at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax, etc
• Any other services not mentioned in the inclusions
• Entrance fees at all monuments/sightseeing places
• Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary / stay on account of flight cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, and roadblocks and / or any factors beyond control

Kerala Packages By City

Faq for kerala, what would be a great time to take a vacation in south india.

A favorable time to vacation in South India would be during the months from September to March.

What are the operational timings of Eravikulam National Park?

Eravikulam National Park is operational from 08.30 AM to 04.00 PM.

Are the houseboats considered as safe as an accommodation option?

The entire houseboat experience is mostly safe. The staff is trained to take care of all the needs and also provide a secure stay to the travelers.

What are some of the best souvenirs to buy in Kerala?

Coir Products, Coconut Shell Handicrafts, Elephant Figurines, kathakali masks, Nettipattom, Nilavilakku (Traditional Lamp), Kasavu Sari ( Kerala Sari), AranmulaKannadi, Nettur Casket (Nettoor Petti).

Do they serve vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes in the houseboats?

They serve food according to what you prefer. If you are a pure vegetarian, we will make sure that only vegetarian dishes are served to you.

Hotel Deals In Kerala

Amaana plantation resort.

• Top Rated Budget Property

Sagara Beach Resort Kovalam

Forest canopy, ayur green resort and spa munnar, lake palace resort alleppey, blanket hotel & spa munnar, at wood resort munnar, the mercy luxury business hotel cochin, peppervine hotel thekkady, summit birds valley resort & spa munnar, 72 authentic traveler reviews.

Read on to find out why our customers love us!

Satyasridharv's 5 days trip to Kerala

Hotel which is booked in Munnar it is even not eligible for 1 star also. Even after advance booking also they have allocated rooms in different floors and which are not good. No facilities like hot water, towels, cleanliness.

Satyasridharv Hyderabad

Amritaagrawal's 5 days trip to Kerala

Guys would request you to provide packages as per guest as all.were 5 star properties except konda lip which is worst experience basic amenities were not available Fragrant nature and green wood stay was awesome ...

Amritaagrawal New Delhi

Pooja's 5 days trip to Kerala

Thank you getz destinations for arranging a wonderful trip. We would like to appreciate especially our cab driver Mr.Shabir for being so polite,patient throughout the entire Trip. Looking forward for many more with getz.

Pooja Reddy Bengaluru, India

Abdulrifay's 5 days trip to Kerala

It was one of best services which I have experienced till now..From A to Z, all arrangements was fine..(If would be very enjoyable, if The house boat could be with good quality)..The driver also was very supportive, very friendly and guided well during the trip..

Abdulrifay Kochi, Kerala, India

Bhushan's 5 days trip to Kerala

House boat was not provided as agreed, we were put into a multiple room one where as I booked a private one, though i've contacted the travel agent and their promise to resolve, it didn't happen. Munnar hills and Forest

Bhushan Ahd Hyderabad, Telangana 500045, India

Behara's 5 days trip to Kerala

First time I had chosen some other travel agent other than make my trip. My overall experience is good. Good one to rely on. Dream catcher plantation is the best place where we had some good memories.

Behara Prakash India

Prasad's 5 days trip to Kerala

Hello... We had fantastic time in Kerla tour arranged by Renu (Worthful Moments Travel), my family enjoyed a lot. The Hotels were good. Experience in Tree house at Diamond Hill Munnar was memorable. The staff on the same was very kind and helpful. The location of the tree house is superb with lovely view of the green valley. The cab and driver arranged by the travel company was good, his knowledge of the area and relationship with the local guides made it relaxing and enjoyable experience. The Elephant ride, Kathakali and Marshal art at Thekkady added flavors to our tour. Finally the day on House boat at Alleppey was fabulous with their traditional lunch and dinner. Overall this trip gave enjoyment and relaxation to us. We would recommend that anyone wants to visit Kerla use this Travel company. Hello... We had fantastic time in Kerla tour arranged by Renu (Worthful Moments Travel), my family enjoyed a lot. The Hotels were good. Experience in Tree house at Diamond Hill Munnar was memorable. The staff on the same was very kind and helpful. The location of the tree house is superb with lovely view of the green valley. The cab and driver arranged by the travel company was good, his knowledge of the area and relationship with the local guides made it relaxing and enjoyable experience. The Elephant ride, Kathakali and Marshal art at Thekkady added flavors to our tour. Finally the day on House boat at Alleppey was fabulous with their traditional lunch and dinner. Overall this trip gave enjoyment and relaxation to us. We would recommend that anyone wants to visit Kerla use this Travel company.

Prasad Wattamwar Hyderabad, Telangana 500049, India

Deepthi's 5 days trip to Kerala

Thanks a lot LIVA HOLIDAYS for organising a fantastic vacation for us!! An awesome stay at munnar, loved the beauty of nature!! & fabulous experience in house boat.thanks a ton to Mr.angel for all his patience with and guiding us throughout our trip.waiting for another one soon with the whole family!!

Deepthi Nataraj Bengaluru

Vidit's 5 days trip to Kerala

" It was an awesome trip , I would like to specially thank you to Rishi (Advisor and Planner) and Unnikrishnan (Driver), who made our trip memorable. From now on further I can blindly suggest to anyone or can go only with you guys for my future trips." " Only Houseboat people need improvement on their behavior towards guest as due to guest they are earning their bread so needs to be friendly with them instead of keeping them isolated. But overall this issue can be neglect. Overall We enjoyed a lot. Thank you again and keep up the good work. Kudos....

Vidit Ahmedabad

Rajveer's 5 days trip to Kerala

Bit surprised to find a small room in Munnar hotel, when you already know we are three sharing a room with a small kid. We should be given a bigger room. Rest all ok.

Rajveer Sisodia Rajasthan,udaipur

Ajay's 5 days trip to Kerala

Memorable family tour of Kerala. Thanks to Akil from Book It and Forget It for great arrangements and continuous coordination throughout the trip. Natural beauty of Echo Point and Rajamala at Munnar. Backwater boating at Alleppy.

Ajay Parbate Ashburn, United States

Dance's 5 days trip to Kerala

1st day experience was horrible. 2nd, 3rd and 4 day was good. Boat experience was good. 5th day was a nightmare as entire day we were at airport because of strike. 4th day in Houseboat

Dance 55 India

Reddykavithap's 6 days trip to Kerala

I have planned trip from Andhra Pradesh to Kerela in one day not even sure will I go trip . I was planning the trip with my mother and daughter , so I was concerned about saf Ty also.After contacting Bharath from travel siya I got Confidence we can travel . People from travel siya were so cooperative that they gave reply to late chat messages . Throughout the trip from picking up from airport everything was well planned . Driver was also very professional. Hotels they gave were also very good. Overall we had good travel experience in Kerela. Thanks to travel siya .

Reddykavithap R2FP+CG Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, India

Kiran's 6 days trip to Kerala

Book it forget it is a good agency to book for kerla trip.. they give instant options on all ur customize requests.. but upon advance payment they tell u all hidden conditions n u feel cheated. But then there is no option.. anyways it was good trip.. no problems anywhere. Specially u should be lucky to get good driver... Like me .. Salam Bhai.. Innova car

Kiran Kumar Chennai, India

Laxmipriya's 6 days trip to Kerala

First day the communication with the cab service was pathetic I had to wait for 2hours at the airport. Then even after booking 4 star hotel I am informed that mineral water is not provided. Then I got to know that in Munnar that (Ayur green hotel) is a 3 star hotel. Then the last hotel ( Cherai Beach Resort ) had pathetic service ever. All the travel agents were very nice arranging the cabs and everything. Only hotel was really nice was Peppervine Hotel in Thekkady and the houseboat in Alleppey. I can't promise that I will use travel triangle again however I would recommend people because travel agents and cab service was nice. No other comments I have. Thanks for arranging the trip. My advise if the travel agent who is not available for that moment there should be someone else who should be in charge and customer should be aware as well that I need to contact some other person. Cab driver and Murali Travel agent from your associates were awesome and I have no complaints for them.

Laxmipriya Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

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IRCTC's South India Tour Package Is Your Chance To Explore These 8 Cities

Curated By : News Desk

Local News Desk

Last Updated: July 11, 2022, 10:40 IST

The special tourist train will leave Delhi's Safdarjung railway station on August 9.

The IRCTC tour package will cover the prominent, sacred, and heritage destinations of Southern India.

For individuals keen on exploring the southern part of India this August, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced a new tour package.

The IRCTC South Indian tour on the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train, costing Rs 53,970 per person, will cover the prominent, sacred, and heritage destinations of South India, including Hyderabad, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Thanjavur, Kancheepuram, Mahabalipuram and Srisailam in 13 days and 12 nights.

Three meals and a night’s stay are included in the 13-day tour package. The Railways has put on track the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train with AC and non-AC coaches, for the journey, beginning August 9 to 21 from Delhi’s Safdarjung railway station and bookings can be made both through online and offline mode.

To book online, visit the IRCTC website–www.irctctourism.com online. Apart from this, offline booking can also be made through IRCTC Tourist Facilitation Center, Zonal Offices, and Regional Offices.

The special tourist train will leave Delhi’s Safdarjung railway station on August 9. Passengers will be able to board/deboard from Delhi Safdarjung, Mathura, Agra Cantt, Gwalior, Jhansi, Bina, Bhopal, Itarsi, and Nagpur stations.

Tour Package Highlights

Package Name – SOUTH INDIA TOUR BY BHARAT GAURAV TOURIST TRAIN

How long will be the tour – 12 nights and 13 days

Departure date – August 9, 2022

Meal plan – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Boarding/Deboarding – Delhi Safdarjung, Mathura, Agra Cantt, Gwalior, Jhansi, Bina, Bhopal, Itarsi and Nagpur stations

Read all the Latest News , Breaking News , watch Top Videos and Live TV here.

• Indian Railways

8 incredible train journeys in South India

Jul 31, 2023 • 8 min read

The slow, marvelous trains that crisscross South India offer a wonderful way to discover this vast region © MTD_myTravelDiaries / Shutterstock

Trains pass through jade-green forests, misty mountains and gorgeous coastal stretches in lush South India.

Riding the rails is one of the greatest joys of any India adventure, whether you’re trundling high up into the hills aboard a UNESCO-listed miniature train or clattering along the sun-drenched, coast-hugging Konkan Railway.

Down south, landscapes spin from honey-gold beaches and palm-shaded backwaters to jungle-covered hills, gushing waterfalls and sprawling megacities. And there’s no finer way to soak it all up than from the window seat of a clanking train, over a white-paper cup of steaming sweet chai.

Fabulous food is often part of the picture, too, thanks to vendors deftly making their way through carriages at stations, and top-tier tickets that include on-board meals. As you roll across wildly beautiful South India , you’ll see local staples such as potato-stuffed dosas (crispy, thin lentil-and-rice-flour crepes), crispy vadas (fried savory dough) and coconut-rich Keralite stews pop up, while soothing chai and filter coffee inevitably always appear at just the right moment. Certain stations are famous for selling particular regional specialities, and some trains are known for serving superb food. 

Here are eight terrific train journeys that offer a taste of India’s sultry south. 

Mettupalayam to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway 

46km (29 miles), 3.5–4.75 hours

South Indian rail thrills don’t get more classic than catching the famous, Unesco-listed “toy train” into northern Tamil Nadu ’s misty Western Ghats . Jade-green tea plantations, lush jungle, rushing waterfalls and far-reaching panoramas jostle for attention as the narrow-gauge, rack-and-pinion steam train rattles up into the Nilgiri Hills from tiny Mettupalayam, zipping through 16 tunnels and across 250 bridges. Eventually, it reaches the hugely popular hill station of Ooty , at 2240m (7350ft). There’s also a stop along the way at Coonoor, the Nilgiris’ second hill station, resting at 1720m (5643ft). First opened in 1899 (and extended to Ooty in 1908), the NMR pulls in an often-lively domestic crowd, with people cheering as tunnels plunge you into darkness. 

The blue-and-cream miniature train leaves for Ooty every day at 7:10am and takes 4.75 hours on the way up; it makes its way back down to Mettupalayam at 2pm, a 3.5-hour journey. The best way to get to Mettupalayam is aboard the nine-hour overnight Nilgiri Express from Chennai Central (or hop on it at Coimbatore , which has an airport), arriving just in time at 6:15am.

Bengaluru (Bangalore) to Gokarna on the Karwar Express

711km (442 miles), 14 hours

Flights link Karnataka ’s lively capital of Bengaluru with the coast in an hour or so – but then you’d be missing out on a spectacular slow-travel jaunt through the lush, biodiverse and unbelievably beautiful Western Ghats en route to Gokarna ’s blissful beaches. Leaving Bengaluru’s Yesvantpur Junction station three days a week at 7am, the Karwar Express follows inland Karnataka’s so-called Green Route, which is known for its wild green forests, dense coffee crops and over 100 bridges. After reaching the low-key coastal town of Mangaluru (Mangalore) , the train follows the coast north to Gokarna Road station, where some of South India’s most magical and relaxed beaches await on the doorstep. 

If you’d prefer an overnight train to the beach, catch the daily Panchaganga Express at 6:50pm from Bengaluru City station, which drops you at Gokarna Road 12 hours later. 

Mumbai to Margao (Madgaon) on the Mandovi Express

765km (475 miles), 12 hours

One of India’s most spectacular railway stations – Mumbai ’s Gothic-style, colonial-era Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus – is the 7:10am starting point for a thrilling coastal adventure south to the golden sands of Goa . Built in the 1990s, the beloved 756km (470-mile) Konkan Railway rushes across 2216 bridges and through almost 100 tunnels, and includes one of the country’s tallest viaducts (a 60m/197ft-high marvel near Ratnagiri). Gaze out on tropical-fruit plantations, rice fields, meandering rivers and electric-green coconut palms as you spin through Maharashtra to land in Margao , southern Goa’s main transport hub, from where there’s easy onward transport to mellow beachy beauties like Palolem and Benaulim. 

But the Mandovi Express isn’t all about the views: it’s also famous for its food, courtesy of a Karnataka-born catering company that delights travelers with samosas, idli-sambar , vadas and other favorites. South of Goa, the Konkan Railway continues through Karnataka almost to the Kerala border. 

Varkala to Kanyakumari on the Island Express

127km (79 miles), four hours

Settle in for a leisurely journey from the golden-black beaches, lively surf-and-yoga scene and holy temples of Varkala , on Kerala ’s south coast, to the southernmost tip of India, in Tamil Nadu. Famous as the place where three seas meet – the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal – laid-back Kanyakumari centers on a revered waterside temple devoted to the Hindu goddess Kumari, a site with an entrancing feel. The beloved Island Express’ 10:55am departure from Varkala means you’ll enjoy southern Kerala’s palm-laced landscapes in all their hazy day-lit beauty. 

Alternatively, you can hop on in Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) , three hours from Kanyakumari, or even from as far north as Bengaluru – which involves a 19-hour, 944km (587-mile) overnight spin via Coimbatore, Kochi, Kollam and more. 

Vasco da Gama to Londa on the Goa Express

146km (91 miles), 3.5 hours

The tumbling 603m(1980ft)-high cascade of Dudhsagar Falls (one of India’s tallest waterfalls) is the “wow” moment on any journey between the South Goan port city of Vasco da Gama and Londa, just over the border in Karnataka. Along the way, Goa’s gold-tinged shoreline gives way to the Western Ghats’ Unesco-protected hills, as you dive into the contiguous wildlife-rich Mollem National Park and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary . 

The 3pm Goa Express (a daily superfast train) runs north from Vasco da Gama via Londa all the way to Delhi – 2208km (1372 miles), or 39.5  hours away. It also stops in Margao , a handy alternative Goa start point.

Chennai to Hyderabad on the Chennai–Hyderabad Express

715km (444 miles), 13 hours

Wake up to the ancient architectural jewels of Telangana ’s dynamic capital Hyderabad , home to some of India’s most magnificent Islamic buildings, such as the chandelier-lit Chowmahalla Palace , the 16th-century Golconda Fort and the splendid Qutb Shahi Tombs . The fun starts with a 4:45pm daily departure from Chennai Central and a South Indian–style dinner on board as the Chennai–Hyderabad Express inches its way north from Tamil Nadu. You’ll probably start the next day sharing a chat and a sugary chai with your carriage neighbors, watching the countryside morph into an urban metropolis on the slow roll into Hyderabad Deccan station. 

Kochi to Margao on the Netravathi Express

849km (527 miles), 14.75 hours

Also following the Konkan Railway for much of the way, this overnight route zips you north from Kerala’s arty cultural hub Kochi to serene southern Goa. After hopping on at Ernakulam Junction station in Kochi at 1:50pm, Kerala whirls past in a blur of sun-toasted coconut palms. Post-sunset, you’ll travel through coastal Mangaluru and the temple town of Udupi in Karnataka, to (finally!) reach Margao Junction just before sunrise. 

In its full extent, the Netravathi Express links Kerala’s capital Trivandrum with Mumbai – a whopping 30-hour, 1805km (1122-mile) journey. It’s also handy for reaching northern Kerala’s untouristed beaches (around Kannur and Bekal ), and you can pick it up from further south than Kochi if you’re in, say, Alappuzha (Alleppey) or Varkala.

Chennai to Rameswaram on the Rameswaram Express

665km (413 miles), 11 hours

Plodding across the 2km(1.25-mile)-long Pamban Bridge, with the Bay of Bengal swirling below, puts a whole new spin on riding the rails in South India. The bridge links mainland Tamil Nadu to Pamban Island, home to the small pilgrimage town of Rameswaram and the eerie ruins of Dhanushkodi (a once-thriving port destroyed by a 1964 cyclone), and marks the final stretch of a long overnight trip south from Chennai Egmore. 

Known as the Boat Mail Express in the 19th century, this train originally operated as part of a rail-and-ferry route linking Tamil Nadu with neighboring Sri Lanka (then under British rule as Ceylon), until the Pamban Bridge was opened in 1914. It’s also possible to travel by train across from the celebrated temple city of Madurai in southern Tamil Nadu; trains leave throughout the day from Madurai Junction (four hours). 

At the time of writing, rail services across the original century-old Pamban Bridge have been suspended while a new bridge is constructed, after safety concerns arose in 2022. 

How to book trains in South India

The best way to find out about South Indian train services is online via Erail , Indian Railways and/or Seat 61 ; this last resource offers invaluable advice on all things train travel–related in India, including buying tickets. 

Many trains sell out well in advance of their departure date, so it’s best to book as far ahead as possible, ideally online. Long-distance bookings currently open 120 days beforehand. Most comfortable for overnight travels are the reserved air-conditioned classes (1AC, 2AC or 3AC). The easiest way to reserve is through a booking portal such as Cleartrip or 12Go . The IRCTC government website also takes online bookings, but it can be a frustratingly fiddly process. On the ground, major train stations in places like Mumbai and Chennai usually have dedicated ticket counters for foreign travelers. Read more about how to get around India by train here . 

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IRCTC launches seven-day tour package to Sri Lanka

Bringing cheer to those who are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, the Indian Railway Catering Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has rolled out a week-long travel package from July 14 to the teardrop-shaped island. The tour will be a golden opportunity to walk through the trails of the ancient epic Ramayana and explore other tourist spots in Sri Lanka. The package will take the tourists from Colombo to the snow-capped Nuwara Eliya mountains. The flight from Kochi, which departs at 10.20 am, will reach Sri Lanka at 11.30 am on July 14. The tourists will first visit the Manavari Munneswaram Temple, which is on the way to Dambulla, where they will stay for the night. The second day kicks off with a tour of the Sigiriya Fort and the Dambulla Cave Temple. Later, the travellers can offer prayers at the Thiru Koneswaram Temple and the Sree Lakshmi Narayana Perumal Temple.

The visitors can explore Kandy on the third day. First, they will be taken to the Royal Botanical Gardens and Peradeniya. The itinerary includes a visit to the Kandy cultural exhibition and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The fourth day of the package starts by offering prayers at the Bahiravakanda Buddha Statue. The afternoon is packed with visits to the Ramboda Hanuman Temple and the tea factory in Nuwara Eliya. The fifth day is dotted with trips to Gayatri Peedam, Sita Amman Temple, Gregory Lake and the Divurumpola Temple. After visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the tourists will travel to the capital city of Colombo where they will visit the Panchamukha Anjaneya Temple and the Kelaniya Buddha Temple. As part of the Colombo city tour, the tourist will get an opportunity to see the Clock Tower Light House, Galle Face, Colombo Harbour, Beira Lake, Independence Square, National Museum and Nelum Pokuna Theatre and Town Hall. The next day the tourists will board the flight to Kochi.

During the seven-day tour, the travellers can visit all the tourist spots and the spiritual and pilgrimage centers associated with the ancient Indian epic Ramayana. The package includes round-trip air tickets, food, three-star accommodation, AC vehicles, entry tickets, visa expenses, an English-speaking tour guide, travel insurance and tax. The package starts from Rs 66,400 and for more details contact IRCTC at 8287932082.  

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Forgot IRCTC password? Here is how to reset your account password online

Forgot your irctc password here is a step-by-step guide to help to reset it online using your registered email id or mobile number..

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• IRCTC offers online methods to reset forgotten passwords
• You can reset password using email or mobile number.
• IRCTC also provides customer support is available for additional assistance.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has simplified train travel in India by providing an online facility for booking and cancelling railway tickets through its website and mobile application. However, like any other online service, IRCTC requires users to have a login ID and password. This password is required every time you try to book tickets on the IRCTC, even though apps like other third-party service providers exist.

How to reset IRCTC password

There are two ways to recover your IRCTC password: via email and registered mobile number.

• Visit the IRCTC Website. Start by navigating to the official IRCTC website and click on the 'Forgot Password' link.
• You will be prompted to enter your username. Type it in and proceed to the next step.
• You will be redirected to a page where you need to answer a security question. This question was set during your account registration. Remembering the answer is crucial for accessing your account.
• Upon correctly answering the security question, you will receive an email from IRCTC. This email contains instructions for resetting your password.
• Follow the instructions provided in the email to reset your password. Ensure you choose a strong and memorable password to avoid future issues.
• As with the email recovery method, start by visiting the IRCTC website and clicking on the 'Forgot Password' link.
• Enter your username and the displayed captcha code, then proceed.
• You will be redirected to the password recovery page. Here, you need to enter your registered mobile number.
• An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter this OTP on the password recovery page.
• After entering the OTP, you will be prompted to enter a new password. Confirm the new password by re-entering it.
• Enter the captcha code and submit your new password.

Meanwhile, when creating the password, use a combination so that it is secure. Create a password that includes letters, numbers, and special characters. Also, avoid common words: steer clear of easily guessable words or sequences like 'password123' or 'abcdef'.

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• ​Which new Indian Railways trains will be launched in 2024? From Vande Bharat sleeper to Vande Metro & Amrit Bharat: Must-see details & images

​Which new Indian Railways trains will be launched in 2024? From Vande Bharat sleeper to Vande Metro & Amrit Bharat: Must-see details & images