Madras Mail

Day 1 - Bombay (Mumbai)
Your India tour and voyage of discovery begins at Bombay airport, where you will be met and transferred to the five-star Taj Mahal Hotel, conveniently located at The Gateway of India for a luxurious two-night stay. (Meals today at your own arrangements)

Day 2 - Bombay
This morning we take a short cruise, weather permitting, to Elephanta Island, a lush island densely wooded with palm, mango and tamarind trees. The atmospheric and fascinating cave complex, which dates back to the 3rd - 5th century, was designed to honour the life of Lord Shiva, one of the most auspicious Hindu gods and is now a World Heritage Site. Marvel at the many statues and works of art dedicated to Lord Shiva. We return to Bombay for lunch at the Khyber restaurant (or similar) and in the afternoon you are free to explore Bombay independently or visit one of the colourful local markets. In the evening a welcome drinks reception is followed by dinner at your hotel where you can get to know your fellow travellers who will share this remarkable Indian odyssey.

Day 3 - Bombay
This morning we visit the Dhobi Ghats, an intriguing outdoor laundry. The dhobi is a traditional laundryman who collects your dirty linen, washes it and returns it neatly pressed. The Ghats are the laundries where they practice this historic tradition. Our tour then takes in Fort Bombay and Gandhi's House, now turned into a fascinating museum depicting his inspirational life. Mid-afternoon sees us boarding our private train, the Maharajas' Express, a perfect way to experience the colour, character and amazing diversity of India. Settle into your beautifully appointed cabin and enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of the Bar Car before experiencing fine Indian or western cuisine in one of the restaurant cars. An all day option prior to boarding the Maharajas' Expressis to take the 100 year old line from Neral to the hill station of Matheran (at 2,500 feet or 800 metres), 2 hours drive south of Bombay. As the little train climbs up into the clear mountain air one can view the scenic vista of hills and plains below. The total lack of motorised traffic at Matheran makes it an unusual and peaceful retreat. (Guests will join the Maharajas' Express, at Pavel Junction after descending from Matheran)

Day 4 - Goa
Goa, renowned for its beaches, temples and world heritage architecture, was the capital of the Portuguese Empire in the east and displays much of this heritage in its architecture today. We take a morning tour to view Basilica De Bom Jesus and Sé Cathedral of Santa Catarina, a towering white structure with a grand baroque interior and the most imposing church in Old Goa. An outstanding Goa tour overall.

Day 5 - Ooty – The Nilgiri Mountain Railway
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a World Heritage Site, starts from the town of Mettupalayam and takes us on a journey full of twists and turns as this narrow gauge steam train ascends 30kms on the only Rack and Pinion Railway in India with gradients as steep as 1:12 to the town of Coonor, from where for the final 16kms the train picks up speed on its way to the hill resort at Ooty at 7,228 feet (2,225 metres) famous for its pretty cottages and beautiful Botanical Gardens. The Toy Train heads through plantations and forest clad hills and with no less than 16 tunnels and tall bridges along with the breathtaking views make a journey to Ooty an extraordinary experience!

Day 6 - Cochin
The beautiful natural harbour of Cochin and scenic backwaters has meant its history has been rich and varied. The British, Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch and Chinese have all left indelible marks on the architectural development of this city. We will visit the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue and then see the Giant Chinese fishing nets that billow from massive teak and bamboo poles which dot the entrance to the harbour and are still in use today. The day ends in a visit to the 500 year old Fort Cochin where we will walk through the historical Dutch and Portuguese buildings. In the evening there is the opportunity to witness a Kathakali Dance performance where the dancers are elaborately made up with paint and masks accompanied by drummers and musicians as they act out a dance drama.

Day 7 – Trivandrum and Kanyakumari
The Maharajas' Express arrives in Trivandrum in the early morning. After breakfast we visit the Napier Museum and the dominating Padmanabhaswamy Hindu Temple. Following lunch we head to Kanyakumari which is the southernmost point of mainland India, where the three seas - Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal - meet and where the shore temple to the Virgin Goddess Kanyakumari stands.

Day 8 - Madurai
The Temple City of Madurai was the capital of the Pandya Kingdom but it was during the reign of the Nayaks that the magnificent Meenakshi Temple was constructed. In the evening we will witness a Hindu ritual, an Aarti Ceremony in Madurai.

Day 9 - Pondicherry
Pondicherry is the former capital of the French territories in India. Landmarks include Raj Nivas, the residence of the Lt Governor of Pondicherry - a handsome 200 year old building which faces Government Park with its paths and lawns, fountains and sculptures. Tonight, we have our final dinner aboard the Maharajas' Express.

Day 10 – Madras (Chennai)
Madras, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is located on the legendary Coromandel Coast with a marvellous tradition of music and dance. This city of 4 million people has a pronounced colonial heritage dating back to the 17th Century. We arrive in Madras in the morning and transfer to our luxurious Taj Fisherman's Cove hotel for a 3 night stay before our tour of the city where we will visit highlights such as Fort St. George and the National Art Gallery.

Days 11-12 - Madras
Situated south of Madras, we visit Mahabalipuram, a beautiful coastal resort classified as a World Heritage Site. The rock cut temples and caves situated here are amongst the finest in the world and originated between 7th and 9th century. The highlight is a visit to the Shore Temple, which is renowned for its intricate carvings and skilled craftsmanship

Day 13 - Madras
Transfers to the airport are included for all guests.

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