Step aboard the Deccan Odyssey and embark on a spectacular private train journey across Northern India, from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal.
This unique experience offers an authentic taste of India, providing a deep insight into the country’s culture, landscapes, and vibrant atmosphere. From the warmth of its people to the captivating sights and sounds, a private rail journey through India is an unforgettable adventure.
Accommodation
Dining
Service
Excursions
Your journey begins upon arrival at Mumbai airport, where you’ll be greeted and transferred to the iconic Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Hotel for a luxurious two-night stay.
This flagship Taj hotel offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India, paired with a legacy of refined hospitality spanning over a century. The hotel has welcomed kings, dignitaries, and renowned personalities from around the world.
Gold-class guests will stay in the Tower Wing, while those in the Imperial Suite will enjoy the prestigious Palace Wing. Please note that an additional night may be required depending on your flight’s arrival time on Day 1.
(All meals on this day will need to be arranged by you)
This morning in Mumbai, enjoy a short cruise (weather permitting) to Elephanta Island, a lush haven filled with palm, mango, and tamarind trees. The island’s atmospheric cave complex, dating back to the 3rd–5th century, honours Lord Shiva, one of the most revered Hindu gods, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Return to the city for lunch at the renowned seafood restaurant Trishna. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore Mumbai at your own pace or visit one of its colourful local markets.
In the evening, join a welcome drinks reception followed by dinner at your hotel, where you can meet fellow travellers embarking on this remarkable Indian odyssey.
Mumbai, a city brimming with culture and history, offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s vibrant traditions. Today, visit the ‘Dhobi Ghats,’ an outdoor laundry where traditional dhobis—laundrymen—wash and press linen, preserving a centuries-old custom. Our tour continues with visits to Fort Bombay and Gandhi’s House, now a captivating museum dedicated to his inspirational life. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
In the mid-afternoon, it is time to board the private train. Settle into your beautifully appointed en-suite cabin and relax in the stylish Bar Lounge Car, enjoying the hospitable atmosphere before delighting in exquisite Indian or Western cuisine prepared by the onboard chefs.
You will enjoy a leisurely morning aboard as the landscape and spirit of India unfold before you.
Next, you’ll have the opportunity to attend a talk on Indian culture before arriving in Udaipur, known as the ‘City of Lakes’ or ‘Venice of the East.’ A captivating tapestry of breathtaking lakes and opulent palaces from the Rajput era awaits your discovery.
In the afternoon, you’ll admire the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lake Palace, built entirely of marble and set on its own island in the shimmering waters of Pichola Lake. You will also visit the medieval grandeur of the City Palace.
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.
One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, renowned for its traditional bazaars and street markets.
Your fascinating city tour in this dynamic city will take you to the Raj Ghat memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb, the first example of Mughal architecture in India, and the towering Indo-Islamic Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world at 238ft (73m), dating back to 1368.
Tonight, you’ll enjoy a sumptuous dinner aboard your private train as your journey across India continues.
After breakfast, you’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. Known as a ‘ghost city,’ this red sandstone town was abandoned shortly after being built 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 for emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638, its red sandstone walls stretch for 2.5 km and enclose many fairytale 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.
Varanasi must be experienced to be truly understood. Upon your early morning arrival, you’ll discover one of India’s most sacred and spiritual places, believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the world.
Situated on the banks of the River Ganges, this cultural and religious hub, known as the City of Light, was established between 3,000 and 5,000 years ago. It remains a focal point for Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges and perform funeral rites.
You’ll have the privilege of witnessing these time-honoured ceremonies on a private river cruise. Your exploration of Varanasi will continue with a guided walk and rickshaw ride through the winding, ancient streets, home to some 2,000 temples in this remarkable city.
Today, you leave the Deccan Odyssey at Siliguri and embark on a spectacular journey to the hill station of Darjeeling, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. You can travel by bus (3–4 hours) or take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which takes approximately 6 hours from Tindharia or 4 hours from Kerseong. Known as the ‘Toy Train,’ this 2ft (610mm) narrow-gauge railway is a marvel.
As you traverse through breathtaking scenery, the locomotive zigzags and loops, steadily climbing to the cooler air of India’s most famous hill station. The journey ascends to Ghum, the highest railway station in India at 7,407 feet (2,258 metres), where the snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, dominates the skyline. The train then descends into Darjeeling, crossing the elegant loop at Batasia. A packed lunch is served on board before you arrive at this historic colonial hill station.
Dinner is served at the Hotel Mayfair (or a similar property), where you will stay for three nights. Perched on a picturesque hill with stunning views of the valley, the Mayfair is a heritage hotel that radiates old-world charm and timeless elegance.
Awaken to the stunning scenery of Mount Kanchenjunga, and start your day with a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to Batasia Loop and Ghum. During this 8km journey, you ascend over 600 feet, with the train weaving through the vibrant and chaotic roadside life. The route takes you within inches of colourful shops, traditional houses, and captivating monasteries, offering an unforgettable sensory experience.
In the afternoon, explore the charm of Darjeeling on a guided tour. Discover the elegant grandeur of its colonial heritage and visit the Tibetan Refugee Centre, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and learn about the Tibetan community's culture. Your tour also includes a stop at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into some of the world’s most renowned mountaineering expeditions.
This morning, weather permitting, seize a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the sunrise over the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, soaring majestically 200 miles away on the horizon. Your early morning excursion to Tiger Hill offers a breathtaking experience, encapsulating the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the world's most magnificent natural landscapes.
In the afternoon, visit a local tea plantation in Darjeeling, where you’ll learn about the region's renowned tea production and enjoy a cup of the freshest tea you’re ever likely to taste—a delightful and authentic experience in this enchanting hill station.
After enjoying an English breakfast, depart from the serene charm of Darjeeling for a car transfer of approximately four hours to Bagdogra Airport. Along the journey, marvel at panoramic views of sprawling tea estates stretching endlessly across the landscape.
From Bagdogra, take a short one-hour flight to Kolkata, where you’ll transfer to the iconic five-star Taj Bengal hotel for a two-night stay. This landmark hotel, located in the heart of downtown Kolkata, offers luxury and proximity to renowned attractions, including the Victoria Memorial, Royal Calcutta Race Course, Horticultural Gardens, National Library, Eden Gardens, and the Alipore Zoological Gardens—all within walking distance.
Kolkata is a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and constant evolution. After breakfast, immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage as you explore its captivating sights, once the capital of India until 1911.
Your day begins with a visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial, a magnificent structure housing a museum dedicated to India’s history. Continue your journey around Dalhousie Square, the bustling former epicentre of British colonial power and trade. The tour concludes with a serene visit to South Park Street Cemetery, an atmospheric retreat amidst the lively rhythm of modern Kolkata.
In the evening, bid farewell to your fellow travellers at a memorable Farewell Dinner hosted on the garden terrace of the luxurious Taj Bengal Hotel.
You will be transferred to Kolkata airport to begin your journey home.
This is a brief overview of our booking terms and conditions. Please note each individual operator has their own terms and conditions and by booking with LuxuryTrainTickets.com you are also accepting the operator's terms. For more information regarding operator terms and conditions please contact us or the operator directly.
PLEASE NOTE: Receiving receipt of payment is not confirmation that your booking has been successful. We will contact you one to 10 working days after you have paid to confirm your booking, take further details of those travelling and send your itinerary. In the rare instance your booking cannot be fulfilled for any reason, such as the operator cancelling a journey or anything else beyond our control, we will be in touch with alternative options or will refund your payment.
All prices shown are for one adult ticket. Sleeper journeys are based on two adults sharing accommodation. Single occupancy of cabins may incur additional charge.
Prices are set by the operator and may change at short notice. We endeavour to ensure prices are always accurate and update our own website as soon as possible. All timings and details of included tours and activities are for guidance only and will only be confirmed in your travel documents that will be emailed to you 7 days before departure. For any questions including discounts, offers or group pricing, please contact info@luxurytraintickets.com.
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There are a limited number of private tables and cabin types onboard. While we keep our website updated regularly, there may be occasions when private tables or cabin types become fully booked meaning we are unable to fulfil your booking requirements. Should this be the case, we will contact you to discuss alternative options and refund any payments made.
We have the right to refuse the request of a deposit when a journey is scheduled to depart in less than 16 weeks. If you choose to book with a deposit you must pay the remaining balance in full 15 weeks before departure at the latest. Should you fail to pay the remaining balance 15 weeks prior to departure, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking. Deposits are accepted by request. Most journeys require a 25% deposit to secure a booking however some specialist journeys do require a 50% deposit. Please contact us for confirmation.
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