Diverse seems such an inadequate word when describing India. The full spectrum of climates, cultures and wildlife are all there in their glory and probably the biggest mistake any visitor can make is to attempt to see too much all in one trip. Our itinerary has therefore been designed to focus in the main on the western seaboard of India as we believe that exploring an area in depth and travelling with a small like-minded group provides the most rewarding experience.
The west of India is dominated by Mumbai and after time spent exploring this vibrant city we fly to the state of Gujarat for our three night stay in Gir National Park. Gir is the last home of the remaining 500 or so Asiatic lions and we will explore by jeep in the hope of spotting the amazing variety of wildlife including sambar deer, jackal, hyenas and crocodile. Upon return to Mumbai we board our luxury train, the Deccan Odyssey, for an unforgettable seven night journey. We will visit the Ellora Caves, the magnificent complex of rock-cut shrines, Ajanta Caves, masterpieces of Buddhist religious art, and the beautiful wine capital of India, Nashik. Our train will also take us into central India to explore Pench National Park and Tadoba Tiger Reserve in search of the apex predator, the elusive Bengal tiger, where dense forests and sprawling grasslands brim with colourful birds, insects, and a multitude of other animals.
There is something evocative about India and trains, no doubt in some part due to our romantic memories of the Raj, but also because travelling by train brings you close to the country, allowing a glimpse of India at eye level. Our time in this region will be an eye-opening experience and offers the opportunity to explore the wildlife, scenic beauty and fascinating culture of a lesser visited region of India.
Deccan Odyssey
To travel aboard the Deccan Odyssey is to experience the finest traditions of rail travel and it is the perfect way to experience the colour, character and amazing diversity of India in comfort and style. We have been given an allocation of cabins aboard the train which comprises of 21 luxuriously appointed coaches. Out of these 21 coaches, 11 are to accommodate guests and the rest are used for different purposes such as dining, lounge, conference car and health spa. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the exceptionally high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
Wild India Accommodation
For our escorted tour, in addition to seven nights spent aboard the Deccan Odyssey, you will also be staying at the following two properties:
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Mumbai, India.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Mumbai.
Arrive this morning and transfer to the Trident, Nariman Point for our two night stay. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities before we meet for dinner this evening. (D)
Day 3 Mumbai.
Mumbai is a cluster of seven islands which were first home to the ‘Koli’ fisherman, who still occupy parts of the city shoreline today. Mumbai was derived from ‘Mumba’ the name of the Hindu goddess ‘Mumbadevi’ and ‘Aai’ – Mother in the local Marathi language. First ceded to the Portuguese, the British Government took possession of the islands in 1665 before leasing them to the English East India Company who founded the port and saw the city grow in size and importance. This morning we explore the city and will see the prominent landmarks visiting the Gateway of India, Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi when he stayed in Mumbai from 1917 to 1934, and Dhobi Ghat where we can observe the vast open air Indian laundry. The remainder of the day is at leisure before we meet for dinner. (B, D)
Day 4 Mumbai to Gir National Park.
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our short flight to Rajkot. On arrival we drive (approximately 4 hours) to the Gir National Park arriving this evening. Check in to the Gir Serai and enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening. (B, L, D)
Days 5 & 6 Gir National Park.
Created as a wildlife sanctuary in 1965 to conserve the Asiatic lions, this is the only place in the world outside Africa to see lions in their natural habitat. The park is also home to sambar deer, jackal, hyenas and crocodile as well as 425 species of bird including serpent eagle, Asian paradise flycatcher and fantail. Over our two days in the park we will take morning and evening jeep safaris on the lookout for wildlife or alternatively relax and enjoy the hotel facilities. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Gir National Park to Mumbai.
Return to Rajkot airport this morning as we take our scheduled flight to Mumbai. Arrive this evening and transfer to the Trident, Nariman Point for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Embark Deccan Odyssey.
This morning is free to explore further at your own pace or enjoy the hotel facilities. In the early afternoon we transfer to the Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus to board the Deccan Odyssey for our seven night journey. After boarding and settling into our cabins the train departs in the early evening. (B, D)
Day 9 Ellora Caves.
Today, the Deccan Odyssey will arrive at Aurangabad where we have some free time to explore this lovely city named after the last Great Mughal Aurangzeb. After an early lunch we take a scenic drive to the Ellora Caves. Carved into the side of a basaltic hill 30 kilometres from the city, it is probably the finest specimen of cave-temple architecture in India. This magnificent site encompasses 34 rock-cut shrines that represent Buddhist, Jain and Hindu art. The 12 caves to the south are Buddhist, the 17 in the centre Hindu, and the five caves to the north are Jain. The most extraordinary part of the Ellora caves is perhaps the Kailasa Temple. Believed to be a replica of Shiva’s celestial abode on Mount Kailash, it is the perfect example of rock cut architecture and an engineering marvel. Afterwards we visit the soaring Daulatabad Fort. Occupied since at least 100 BC, it is home to the remains of Buddhist caves similar to those at Ajanta and Ellora. (B, L, D)
Day 10 Aurangabad.
This morning we explore the old city of Aurangabad. Visit Bibi-ka-Maqbara, the last resting place of Dilras Banu, Aurangzeb’s wife. Built between 1651 and 1661 by her son, Prince Azam Shah, the monument is also called the ‘Taj of the Deccan’ and was built to rival the brilliance of the Taj Mahal. Later we visit a facility that specialises in the weaving of Himroo fabric. Himroo has been associated with Aurangabad since the 14th century when Muhammad Tughlaq made Aurangabad his capital. This particular fabric features Persian designs woven with silver and gold threads. It is named from Hum-ruh, which means ‘similar’ in Persian, as it is a replica of the Kum Khwab fabric that was much admired in royal courts before Himroo took its place. After lunch on board we can take in the sight of ever-changing colours and landscapes of Maharashtra as the Deccan Odyssey continues its journey. (B, L, D)
Day 11 Pench National Park.
Today the Deccan Odyssey will stop at Ramtek, our base for a visit to Pench National Park. It is named after the Pench River, which wanders through it like a python, splitting it into almost equal halves. The park is vastly rich in biodiversity, its terrain defined by hills, valleys and the occasional precipitous slope. This important ecosystem supports an abundance of flora and fauna, which includes a rich diversity of aquatic life. After an exciting game drive, return to the Deccan Odyssey for a relaxed brunch on board. In the afternoon, get ready for your second adventure into the wild. For the uninitiated, the Pench National Park combines four different forest regions in one. It features an extravagance of trees, shrubs, grasses, climbers, weeds and herbs, with teak being the most prominent of the tree species. The birdlife here is equally abundant with both resident and migratory birds like Malabar pied hornbills, Indian pittas, ospreys and grey-headed fishing eagles. The park is also home to white-eyed buzzards, storks, waterfowls, four endangered vulture species, and the green pigeon, which is the state bird of Maharashtra. After a thrilling day at Pench, drive back to Ramtek station to board the Deccan Odyssey. (B, L, D)
Day 12 Tadoba Tiger Reserve.
Today, the Deccan Odyssey will arrive at Chandrapur station, for your early morning safari into the Tadoba Tiger Reserve. Also called the Land of Tigers, this reserve is known for its high tiger density. It is not unsual to spot tigers and wild dogs here. You also have plenty of opportunities for close encounters with leopards, sloth bears, gaurs (the Indian bison), the rusty spotted cat, ratels, various species of deer and more. After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a late breakfast at the Tiger Trails Lodge. Follow this with a documentary on wildlife or interact with the naturalist. After lunch at the lodge we drive back to Chandrapur station to board the Deccan Odyssey. (B, L, D)
Day 13 Ajanta Caves.
Drive this morning to the Ajanta Caves, a World Heritage Site which is an architectural wonder of its time. The 30 rock-hewn Buddhist caves at Ajanta have been expertly carved and are ornamented with sculptures and paintings of Buddhist religious art. It impeccably presents a universal pictorial art as well as the fusion of Buddhist and Hindu faith. After your trip to Ajanta, return to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch as it makes its way to Nashik. The rest of the day is at leisure. Relax and enjoy some of the recreational activities available on board. Indulge in a relaxing massage in the spa, watch a film or learn the rules of ‘carrom’, a popular Indian board game, from a Deccan Odyssey team member. (B, L, D)
Day 14 Nashik & Godavari Ghats.
Arrive this morning at the holy city of Nashik, which is rapidly gaining popularity as the wine capital of the country. Spend the morning walking along the Godavari ghats and witness several important Hindu rituals being performed. Then proceed to the lively Wednesday market, which sells everything from freshly caught catfish to cow dung cakes and many things in between. Later we drive to the Grover Zampa vineyards for a special tour of one of the finest wine producing facilities of India. Walk through vines laden with Chenin, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Explore the age old ‘methode traditionnelle’ used to make one of the best known Indian brands of sparkling wine. Let the sommelier introduce your taste buds to their most exquisite creations of white, red, rose, and sparkling wines and experiment pairing them with your meal at the vineyards. After a lavish lunch, return to the Deccan Odyssey and set forth for Mumbai, the last leg of the journey. (B, L, D)
Day 15 Mumbai to London.
Disembark the Deccan Odyssey this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. Arrive this afternoon. (B)
Exploring & Transportation: We have planned the itinerary to be less strenuous than most to the region, however, the tour will require walking through busy streets in warm temperatures, navigating through a number of train carriages to access the public areas from your compartment and travelling on unpaved roads during jeep safaris. Also, many of the sites are reached by uneven steps without handrails. To best enjoy your experiences in India, you should be in good physical condition.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 12 to 26 October 2024 • 3 to 17 May 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Twin/Double | £8295 | |
| Twin for sole use | £10495 | |
| 2 to 16 May 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Twin/Double | £8495 | |
| Twin for sole use | £10695 | |
Tour Reference Code: LASECRETS
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Three nights hotel accommodation in Mumbai • Three nights hotel accommodation at Gir National Park • Seven nights accommodation aboard the Deccan Odyssey Train • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • Soft drinks with all included lunches and dinners & also Indian Beer and wine with included lunches and dinners in Mumbai • Excursions • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Indian visa, alcoholic drinks aboard the Deccan Odyssey and at Gir National Park. Please note that Gujarat is a dry state and alcohol consumption is prohibited.
Group Size: We are restricting the group size to just 20 participants.
Exploring & Transportation: We have planned the itinerary to be less strenuous than most to the region, however, the tour will require walking through busy streets in warm temperatures, navigating through a number of train carriages to access the public areas from your compartment and travelling on unpaved roads during jeep safaris. Also, many of the sites are reached by uneven steps without handrails. To best enjoy your experiences in India, you should be in good physical condition.
Deccan Odyssey
To travel aboard the Deccan Odyssey is to experience the finest traditions of rail travel and it is the perfect way to experience the colour, character and amazing diversity of India in comfort and style. We have been given an allocation of cabins aboard the train which comprises of 21 luxuriously appointed coaches. Out of these 21 coaches, 11 are to accommodate guests and the rest are used for different purposes such as dining, lounge, conference car and health spa. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the exceptionally high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
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Train Directory
Train Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the train or click on the booklet to download.
Golden Eagle Luxury Trains are a leader in exclusive private train tours and we are delighted to offer a selection of cabins aboard their luxury train, the Deccan Odyssey for your Indian adventure. The train is designed with inspiration taken from the imperial carriages used by the Maharajas when travelling through India and features two categories of accommodation, Presidential Suites and Deluxe Class Cabins, each of which provides private en-suite bathrooms and modern facilities. The public areas include two traditionally decorated Restaurant Cars, offering a variety of Indian and international cuisine, and the Bar Lounge Car which is the perfect place to relax and socialise with your fellow passengers. Step aboard and recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era whilst travelling between destinations, and, after a day of exploration, you can return to the train and relax amid comfortable surroundings, enjoying fine cuisine and discreetly attentive service.
ACCOMMODATION
The train offers two categories of sleeping compartment, each with private en-suite facilities. These spacious cabins are all equipped with air-conditioning, television screen with USB and HDMI ports, complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water, a selection of toiletries, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers. A laundry service is also available throughout the tour for a fee.
Presidential Suites: These are the most spacious cabins available, measuring 191 square feet and benefiting from a large and luxurious king-size bed, separate lounge/seating area with writing desk and two private en-suite bathrooms with shower.
Deluxe Class Cabins: These cabins measure 95 square feet and are well proportioned with a twin or a queen-size bed and a private en-suite bathroom with shower.
AIR-CONDITIONING
The train is fully air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin/suite has individually controlled air-conditioning.
DAILY PROGRAMME
Passengers will receive printed daily itineraries throughout the tour detailing train arrival and departure times, the latest weather forecasts for the next destination and information on the following day’s excursions and activities.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten-free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. Once on board, please speak with the Chef on arrival to reconfirm your requirements. The onboard staff will endeavour to accommodate your needs but we regret that these requests cannot be guaranteed.
DINING
Meals are skilfully prepared by the Executive Chef and his onboard restaurant team using the very best of ingredients, locally sourced wherever possible.
To start the day, there is an extensive choice of breakfast options of both Indian and international cuisine. Cold plates, cereals and juices are available as well as hot dishes to order. For lunch and dinner, you will be served by the restaurant staff in traditional Maharashtrian attire, in the surroundings of a beautifully decorated restaurant car. A variety of Indian and international dishes are served for each meal, accompanied by choice of local wines and beers, along with juices, soft drinks and mineral water. Meals on board are a relaxed affair. The restaurant cars can accommodate all guests in a single sitting and with the open seating policy you can dine wherever, and with whomever, you please.
DRESS CODE
The dress code on board is informal.
ELECTRICITY
The sockets on the train, and in your compartment, accept standard round Indian plugs, with electricity operating on 230 volts. We recommend that you bring a universal adaptor with you.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event that an emergency should occur during your journey, we ask that you remain calm and follow the instructions of the train staff. The train will be brought to a halt for any required action. Do not jump from a moving train.
GRATUITIES
All gratuities are included in the tour price and the operator asks passengers to refrain from offering gratuities to crew/hoteliers/drivers etc. Please inform the train management or Noble Caledonia of any exceptional service received and the operator will reward accordingly.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
Laundry service is available at an additional charge. Most items (except heavy materials, such as jeans) are delivered to your cabin within 24 hours.
LUGGAGE STORAGE
Luggage storage is available in your cabin/suite. However, since space on board is limited, we do recommend taking soft-sided luggage rather than hard-side cases.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you leave the train, please check your compartment carefully to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MEDICAL FACILITIES
A Doctor is available 24 hours a day.
ONBOARD ACCOUNT
Any extra expenses can be settled directly on board the train. All major credit cards are accepted on the train.
PASSPORTS
All passports are collected by the Train Manager upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities between borders. If required, your Train Manager will also provide the necessary forms for you to fill out.
PUBLIC AREAS
Unwind in the comfortable surroundings of the Bar Lounge Car and watch the world go by. Perhaps read a novel from the library to pass away the time or make use of the spa facilities by enjoying a massage or using the onboard gym equipment.
END OF STAY QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us, therefore, we ask that you fill in the questionnaire sent with your final documents. We are always looking for ways to improve our tours and in order to do this, we request feedback from our guests.
SECURITY & SAFE
Each car has two car attendants, one of whom is always on duty. All cabins on the Deccan Odyssey have an electronic safe. The attendants remain with the train during the excursions.
SERVICE
You can expect service which is attentive, friendly and unintrusive. Your car attendants provide housekeeping and bedding turndown services (bed linen is changed every third day) and service your car with complimentary tea, coffee and bottled drinking water.
SMOKING POLICY
Smoking is banned on board the train and in all public areas in India. Smoking is allowed off the train during stops only at designated smoking areas.
TRAIN TOUR MANAGER
The Train Tour Manager is there to coordinate all elements of the tour and if you encounter any problems you should approach him/her directly and they will do their best to assist. They are selected for their travel knowledge, and their linguistic and organisational abilities allowing you to relax and enjoy your rail journey.
TELEPHONE CALLS
There is no telephone system on board.
TELEVISION
An LCD screen is provided in each cabin with USB and HDMI port access.
TOILETRIES
All cabins and suites are supplied with the following complimentary amenities:
• Shower gel • Conditioning Shampoo • Body Lotion • Soap • Shower caps • Tissues / Cotton buds
WAKE UP CALL
Wake up calls can be requested via your Tour Manager.
WI-FI
Wi-Fi connection is available on board the train and a Wi-Fi box is provided in each cabin. Coverage may be limited when travelling through more remote locations. On touring days off the train internet access will be provided at a local hotel or restaurant when possible. The Tour Manager will keep you informed of all opportunities to use Wi-Fi and provide password access when necessary.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
Wild India Accommodation
For our escorted tour, in addition to seven nights spent aboard the Deccan Odyssey, you will also be staying at the following two properties:
Also of Interest
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Itinerary at a glance
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Itinerary at a glance
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000