An Indian Odyssey
A spectacular – and surprising – encounter with India from the luxurious comfort of the Deccan Odyssey
The British aristocracy and Indian Royalty used the country's rail network as their very own palace on wheels. Who says you can't do the same?
The Deccan Odyssey has long been considered one of India's most in-demand train journeys, partly because of its luxurious fit-out, and partly because the destinations the train transports its guests to are unforgettable.
Guests of the Deccan Odyssey have the chance to feast their eyes on UNESCO heritage sites, vineyards, mountains, deserts and beaches; hidden villages where ancient traditions are alive and well, as well as opulent and extravagant royal cities. And with six itineraries on offer on board the royal train, the hardest part will be deciding which one to commit to...
Train Overview
12 Guest Coaches & 4 Presidential Suites
Each spacious Deccan Odyssey cabin echoes the penchant of the Maharajas, with the decoration of each coach reflecting a particular era of the Deccan milieu. Outfitted with cosy furniture and personalised guest amenities, there is one valet per coach and one valet per Presidential Suite accessible around the clock to cater to guests' needs.
2 Restaurants & 1 Bar
The Deccan Odyssey's two gourmet restaurants, Waavar and Utsav, have been designed as a nod to the Indian royal interiors of yesteryear.
The cuisine aligns with each destination the train pulls into, with local specialties of the state on offer at each stop, as well as an international menu.
Spa & Conference Car
You can enjoy a tipple at the train's social hangout, Gateway, or experience a massage incorporating ancient Indian techniques at the onsite spa, Ayush. There is also a conference car for those needing to do some work.
But it's the country itself that is the most important thing to experience on the Deccan Odyssey – so here are just a few of the spectacular – and surprising – destinations and activities you'll encounter on one of the country's most celebrated locomotives.
Vadodara
Known as India's city of painters and artists, in Vadodara dig in to high tea straight from the royal kitchen as you witness a folk performance typical of the Vadodara region at the resplendent Laxmi Vilas Palace. Built in 1890, the historic building is reported to be four times the size of Buckingham Palace, and continues to be the residence of the Royal family even today. The palace houses a remarkable collection of old armoury and sculptures in bronze, marble and terracotta by Fellici, and its overwhelming Durbar Hall boasts a Venetian mosaic floor, Belgian stained glass windows and walls with intricate mosaic decorations.
Experience Vadodara on the Indian Sojourn and Hidden Treasures journeys.
Udaipur
On the Deccan Odyssey's Indian Sojourn itinerary you'll visit one of the most romantic cities in India, Udaipur in Rajasthan, set arounda series of artificial lakes and surrounded by the scenic Aravali hills. Founded in 1559, Udaipur is also known for its lavish royal residences, especially the lakeside City Palace. The largest palace complex in Rajasthan, it is a monumental complex of 11 palaces, courtyards and gardens, famed for its intricate peacock mosaics. You'll finish the tour with a scenic boat cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola.
Jodhpur
A must-visit for a fantastic photo opportunity is the walled city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, also known as the Blue City, thanks to its iconic blue-painted houses. The blue buildings surround the 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, now a museum displaying weapons, paintings and elaborate royal palanquins (sedan chairs). This shining sapphire of a city in the middle of the stark desert boasts some of the finest architecture from the Rajput era, renowned for its superb forts and glorious palaces.
Experience Jodhpur on the Indian Sojourn journey.
Tadoba
India's tiger population is dwindling, but at Tadoba Tiger Reserve, also called the Land of Tigers, you'll have an excellent chance of seeing the majestic, stripey beasts with your own eyes. On an early morning safari you'll head into the reserve where leopards, sloth bears, gaurs (the Indian bison), rusty spotted cats, ratels, various species of deer and more abound. After safari you'll get to dig in to a late breakfast at the Tiger Trails lodge before heading towards Jalgaon to visit the stunning Ajanta Caves.
Available on the Maharashtra Wild Trail journey.
Book Deccan Odyssey
Prices start from $USD 6,734 per person for single occupancy.
