Step aboard the Golden Eagle Deccan Odyssey and embark on a breathtaking expedition by private train, spanning Northern India from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal. Encounter the warmth of the people, marvel at the captivating scenery, and savour the enchanting sights and sounds that make a private rail journey through India an unforgettable and treasured experience.
Immerse yourself in a truly unique adventure that offers an authentic taste and deep insight into this exotic destination.
Accommodation
Dining
Service
Excursions
Arrival day at Kolkata Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the iconic five-star Taj Bengal, Kolkata, for a two-night stay. Situated in the exclusive neighbourhood of Alipore, this landmark hotel offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort.
(All meals today are at your own arrangement.)
Kolkata is a sensory delight and a constantly evolving cultural extravaganza. After breakfast, you will spend the day exploring and taking in the many sights of this enthralling city, which was once India’s capital. Your tour includes a visit to the Victoria Memorial, one of Kolkata’s finest and most prominent landmarks, housing a museum dedicated to the history of India.
You will then head to Dalhousie Square, the bustling centre of English colonial power and trade during two centuries of British rule. The final stop is South Park Cemetery, an atmospheric and tranquil space amidst the vibrant energy of modern-day Kolkata.
In the evening, enjoy a drinks reception followed by a Welcome Dinner at your hotel, where you can meet and get to know your fellow travellers who will join you on this remarkable Indian rail odyssey.
Today, you embark on a spectacular journey to the hill station of Darjeeling. You can travel by bus (3–4 hours) or take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which takes approximately six hours from Tindharia. Known as the ‘Toy Train,’ this 2ft (610mm) narrow-gauge railway offers a unique and scenic experience.
As you travel through awe-inspiring landscapes, the locomotive zigzags and loops, climbing steadily to the cooler air of India’s most renowned hill station. The train ascends to Ghum, situated at 7,407 feet (2,258 metres) and the highest railway station in India. The snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, dominates the skyline before the journey descends 595 feet (181 metres) into Darjeeling, crossing the graceful double loop at Batasia. A packed lunch is served on board during this remarkable ride.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at the Hotel Mayfair, your home for the next three nights. Perched on a picturesque hill with stunning views of the valley, this heritage hotel exudes old-world charm and timeless elegance.
Awake to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kanchenjunga and begin your day with a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. This iconic train ascends 600 feet during its 7km journey to Batasia Loop and Ghum. Along the way, your senses will be captivated by the vibrant roadside life, passing just inches from colourful shops, houses, and enchanting monasteries.
In the afternoon, explore Darjeeling with a tour that showcases the elegant grandeur of its colonial heritage, alongside the contrasting culture of a Tibetan refugee centre. Conclude your day with a fascinating visit to the Himalayan Institute, where you can learn about some of the world’s most legendary mountaineering expeditions.
This morning, weather permitting, seize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the sunrise over the snow-capped Himalayas, with the majestic Mount Everest emerging 200 miles away on the horizon. An early visit to Tiger Hill offers an unforgettable experience, capturing the essence of one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
In the afternoon, explore a local tea plantation and savour the freshest cup of tea you’re ever likely to taste—a true highlight of your journey.
By mid-afternoon, you will board your private train, the Golden Eagle Deccan Odyssey, offering the ideal way to experience the vibrant colours, rich character, and incredible diversity of India. Settle into your private en-suite cabin, unwind in the welcoming ambience of the stylish Bar Lounge Car, and savour exquisite Indian or Western cuisine expertly prepared by the onboard chefs.
Varanasi must be experienced to be truly understood. Your early morning arrival in this sacred and spiritual city offers the chance to explore what is believed to be the world’s oldest continually inhabited city. Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, Varanasi, known as the City of Light, has been a cultural and religious centre for 3–5,000 years. It remains a pilgrimage destination for Hindus who bathe in the sacred waters and perform funeral rites.
You will witness these timeless ceremonies before setting off on a private river cruise. Your exploration concludes with a guided walk through the ancient, winding streets of this extraordinary city, home to around 2,000 temples.
One of the world’s oldest cities, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant metropolis, renowned for its traditional bazaars and lively street markets.
Your captivating city tour reveals the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb—India’s first example of Mughal architecture—and the towering Indo-Islamic Qutab Minar. This remarkable minaret, standing at 238 feet (73 metres), is the tallest brick minaret in the world and dates back to 1368.
In the evening, savour a sumptuous dinner on board as your journey through India continues.
After breakfast, you visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. Known as a ‘ghost city’, this red sandstone town was abandoned shortly after its construction in 1585 due to a lack of water.
In the afternoon, your journey continues to Agra Fort, a magnificent structure that dominates the skyline. Once the main residence of Mughal emperors until 1638, its red sandstone walls stretch for 2.5 km and enclose numerous fairy-tale palaces and two beautifully preserved mosques.
This morning, get ready to visit the breathtaking Taj Mahal, built entirely of white marble on the south bank of the Yamuna River. Undoubtedly the most famous building in the world, it was completed in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and took 22 years and 20,000 artisan workers to complete.
Nowhere else on Earth will you experience such a poignant architectural symbol of enduring love and inspirational artistry.
Arriving in the capital of Rajasthan, the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, you’ll be immediately captivated by its rich, colourful history. This morning, visit the Amber Fort and explore its breathtaking grandeur, including the magnificent Hall of Mirrors.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your exploration with a tour of the Jantar Mantar Observatory, the imposing City Palace, and the beautiful Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This delicately stunning monument, built in 1799 from pink sandstone, was designed to allow royal ladies to discreetly observe everyday life. If time allows, visit a famous fabric market before returning to the train to refresh.
This evening, you’ll dine at the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel, originally built in 1835 and once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The palace retains its lavish splendour, with hand-carved marble ‘jalis’ or latticework, sandstone balustrades, cupolas, ‘chattris’ or cenotaphs, and elaborate Mughal Gardens.
Ladies dressed in traditional Rajasthani costumes will perform the garlanding ‘aarti’ and ‘tikka’ ceremonies, while the music of the “Shenai” welcomes you. A delightful display of fireworks will follow, along with a barbecue dinner served outdoors on one of the palace lawns, against the stunning backdrop of the illuminated palace. A truly memorable end to your day in the Pink City.
Spend a leisurely morning on board, watching the landscape and spirit of India unfold before you. You then have the opportunity to attend a talk on Indian culture before arriving at Udaipur, known as the ‘City of Lakes’ or ‘Venice of the East.’ A captivating tapestry of breathtaking lakes and opulently majestic palaces from the Rajput era awaits your discovery.
In the afternoon, admire the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lake Palace. Constructed entirely of marble, it rests serenely on its own island in the shimmering waters of Pichola Lake. Your journey continues with a visit to the medieval grandeur of City Palace.
On Day 13, you arrive in Mumbai, bid farewell to the Deccan Odyssey, and transfer to the iconic five-star Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Hotel for a luxurious two-night stay. This flagship Taj hotel offers splendid views of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India, combined with refined, century-old hospitality. Over the years, this legendary hotel has hosted kings, dignitaries, and eminent personalities from around the world.
Deluxe Class guests will stay in the Tower Wing, while Presidential Suite guests reside in the Palace Wing.
Mumbai, a compelling city rich in culture and history, promises a memorable experience during your stay. Visit the ‘Dhobi Ghats,’ an intriguing outdoor laundry where traditional dhobis collect, wash, and neatly press clothes, showcasing a historic craft in action.
The programme also includes Fort Bombay and Gandhi’s House, now a captivating museum that depicts the inspirational life of Mahatma Gandhi.
Weather permitting, you can take a short cruise from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island. This lush, wooded UNESCO World Heritage Site features an atmospheric and fascinating cave complex, dating back to the 3rd–5th century, honouring the life of Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s most revered gods.
In the city, enjoy lunch at the renowned seafood restaurant, Trishna, and explore Mumbai independently or visit one of its vibrant local markets as part of the programme.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Mumbai Airport to begin your journey home.
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