A trip to India is no ordinary travel experience. For a start the sheer size of the subcontinent can be a daunting prospect when considering which region to visit. For this new escorted tour the focus is on the royal state of Rajasthan in the northwest of the country, with its magnificent palaces, forts, monuments and temples and we are delighted to be working with the Deccan Odyssey in offering a selection of cabins aboard this private train journey. No amount of travel books or documentaries can prepare you for a trip to India; the sights and sounds of this vibrant and diverse country have to be experienced to be believed and the region of Rajasthan in particular is imbued with beauty and colour.
During our exploration we will learn about the country’s cultural, colonial and religious history beginning with a full day to explore India’s capital where the Medieval atmosphere of the bazaars of Old Delhi contrasts sharply with the open, spacious streets of New Delhi. From the Deccan Odyssey train we will then visit Agra, home to India’s most famous monument, the stunning Taj Mahal, and wildlife rich Ranthambore National Park where we will take a jeep safari in search of the elusive tigers. The next five days will include a comprehensive exploration of the best of Rajasthan including the fabulous palaces of Udaipur and Jaipur, the “blue city” of Jodhpur with its magnificent fort, and Jaisalmer where we see the old havelis and enjoy the beauty of the Thar desert.
In our view, India needs to be absorbed slowly and at eye-level in order for the experience to be enjoyable and we will travel through a land steeped in fascinating history, culture and view some truly awe-inspiring architecture. So much of India is out of reach due to vast distances by road however, a journey by private train is the ideal way to see something of this magical land. While travelling between destinations and after a day of exploration, you can return to the Deccan Odyssey and relax on board amid the luxury of its accommodations, food and discretely attentive service.
Deccan Odyssey
To travel aboard the Deccan Odyssey private train 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. For the journeys featured in this brochure we have an allocation of cabins aboard the train which comprises of 21 luxuriously appointed coaches, 11 of which accommodate guests with the remainder 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 attentive service combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Delhi, India.
Fly by scheduled flight.
Day 2 Delhi.
Arrive today in Delhi, India’s largest city which has been one of the country’s commercial and economic hubs for centuries and as a result is incredibly rich in culture and history. After clearing immigration, we will transfer to our hotel and check in for our two night stay. The remainder of the day is at leisure before we meet tonight for dinner. (D)
Day 3 Delhi.
Our morning tour of Old Delhi includes a visit of the 17th century Jama Masjid before a rickshaw ride through the narrow, winding lanes of colourful and bustling Chandni Chowk. See the Mughal Empire’s opulent Red Fort, the Presidential Palace, the one-time Imperial residence of the British viceroy, and India Gate, a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war. After some free time for lunch we will visit Humayun’s Tomb, a remarkable “garden-tomb” built in the memory of Mughal Emperor Humayun in the 16th century and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Later we return to the hotel for some free time before we meet for dinner. (B, D)
Day 4 Embark Deccan Odyssey.
This morning is free to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities. After checking out of our hotel we will see the 12th century Qutub Minar, one of the tallest minarets in the world at 72.5 metres and considered one of the first buildings to mark the arrival of Muslim rulers in the country. Afterwards we visit the Rail Museum, a unique museum that has a fascinating and exotic collection of over 100 real size exhibits of Indian Railways. In the late afternoon we transfer to the railway station to board the Deccan Odyssey. After settling into our cabins, we will enjoy dinner on board as the train makes its way towards Agra. (B, D)
Day 5 Agra.
Agra’s history dates back to the Mughals who proclaimed it their capital in 1565. Located on the Yamuna River, the city grew as a centre of architectural, political and trading activity. Today the city is a kaleidoscope of India with various communities living in harmony. On arrival we see the legendary beauty and the white marble domes of the elegant Taj Mahal. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as an exquisite mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, Rudyard Kipling described the building as ‘the embodiment of all things pure’. After lunch we visit Agra Fort which was completed by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1573 and remained the main residence of emperors of the Mughal dynasty until 1638. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Sawai Madhopur & Ranthambore National Park.
Enjoy breakfast on board as the train arrives at Sawai Madhopur from where we travel to a local village to experience life in rural Rajasthan. We will meet the locals and learn about their livelihoods which depend on farming and hunting. After lunch on board we prepare to spend the afternoon on safari at nearby Ranthambore National Park. Named after the historic Ranthambore Fort, which lies within the park, this used to be the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur and in 1972 the sanctuary came under the Project Tiger scheme. One of the largest national parks in Northern India, Ranthambore offers some of the finest opportunities for wildlife sightings including the magnificent tiger, basking crocodiles, king vultures, serpent eagle, sloth bears, jackal and hyena or spotted deer. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Udaipur.
Known as the “City of Lakes”, Udaipur, is one of the most romantic cities in the world and is home to magnificent forts, havelis, and palaces. Our day starts at the City Palace; a beautiful structure built on the banks of Lake Pichola as a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. Explore the grand courtyards, pavilions and luxurious interiors developed by the Mewar Dynasty. Afterwards take a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola before lunch is served in a city hotel. This afternoon we will explore the Old City on a walking tour before visiting the colourful bazaar which retains its local charm and feel. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Jodhpur.
Founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rajput clan known as Rathores, the city grew out of the profit made of opium, sandalwood and dates. Today, a sightseeing tour of the “Blue City”, will start at the Mehrangarh Fort which lies at the outskirts of the city on top of a 125 metre high hill. The magnificent fort is the most majestic and one of the largest forts in India. Building commenced in 1459, however, most of it dates from the period of Jaswant Singh (1638-78). The Fort Museum houses an exquisite collection of Palanquins, Howdahs, Royal Cradles, Miniature Paintings, Musical instruments, Costumes and Furniture whilst the ramparts provide not only excellently preserved cannons but also a breathtaking view of the city. After lunch on the train, we return by tuk tuk to explore the lanes of the old city. See the Ghanta Ghar clock tower adjacent to the Sardar market where you can find spices, sweets, textiles and handicrafts before we see some of the blue buildings that give the city its name. (B, L, D)
Day 9 Jaisalmer.
Continuing our journey thorough Rajasthan, we arrive today in the “Golden City” of Jaisalmer. This enchanting city, located in the heart of the Thar Desert, is a traveller’s delight with grand fortresses, ancient temples, tranquil lakes, and mesmerising sand dunes. Our day starts at Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as the Golden Fort, which stands imposingly with its massive yellow sandstone walls. Within the fort, narrow lanes house numerous attractions including palaces, monuments and captivating Jain temples, with their intricate marble carvings and stone sculptures. Continue to Nathmal Ki Haveli, a stunning 19th century mansion, where we find beautifully decorated rooms, intricately carved pillars, and latticework that allows for cool breezes to flow through the building. We return to the train for lunch and later this afternoon we will head to the desert dunes and enjoy a drink as we watch the sunset. (B, L, D)
Day 10 Jaipur.
Arrive this morning in Jaipur, Rajasthan’s historic capital. Originally the city’s walls were the colour of red sandstone, Jaipur’s universal coat of pink only came in 1876 to coincide with the visit of the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Almost the entire city was given a coat of pink paint, thus giving it the name ‘The Pink City’. We begin with a visit to the Amber Fort, located on the outskirts of the city. This extensive palace complex was built with pale yellow and pink sandstone, and white marble, and is a fine example of Rajput architecture. We will then head into Jaipur and after lunch in a city hotel we will see the City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Constructed out of pink sandstone in 1799, it was designed to extend the chambers of the harem and allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen. Return to the train in the late afternoon and enjoy some time to freshen up before dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 11 Delhi to London.
Debark the Deccan Odyssey this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. Arrive this afternoon. (B)
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 18 to 28 November 2026 • 24 February to 6 March 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Deluxe Class Twin | £8495 | |
| Deluxe Class Double | £8695 | |
| Deluxe Class for sole use | £10995 | |
Tour Reference Code: LAHERITAGE
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Two nights hotel accommodation in Delhi • Seven nights aboard the Deccan Odyssey • Meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner) • Soft drinks with all included lunches and dinners • Indian Beer and wine with included dinners in Delhi • Excursions • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Gratuities • Transfers • Porterage • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Indian visa, alcoholic drinks aboard the Deccan Odyssey.
Please note: A visa is required for travel to India (e-visa processed on line in the 30 days before travel for a fee of approximately £25).This information is correct at the time of printing and further information will be sent to passengers 12 weeks prior to departure.
Exploring & Transportation: We have planned our 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 rough dirt tracks in Ranthambore National Park during the jeep safari. Also, many of the sites are reached by uneven steps without handrails. To best enjoy your experience in India, you should be in good physical condition.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Deccan Odyssey
To travel aboard the Deccan Odyssey private train 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. For the journeys featured in this brochure we have an allocation of cabins aboard the train which comprises of 21 luxuriously appointed coaches, 11 of which accommodate guests with the remainder 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 attentive service combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
-
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.
Tour Extensions
-
-
Join us after your rail journey for a three night stay in India’s holiest city, Varanasi, in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. From the comfort of our hotel we will explore this colourful and sacred city with opportunities to watch the riverside worshippers along the ghats, enjoy a cruise along the Ganges and to visit Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Varanasi
The Itinerary
Day 1 Delhi to Varanasi, India.
Debark the Deccan Odyssey this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Varanasi. On arrival transfer to the hotel and the remainder of the day is free to relax before we meet for dinner this evening. (D)
Day 2 Varanasi.
Early risers will have the option to join a cruise on the Ganges as we observe locals practicing their morning rituals as the sun rises and the city comes to life. Return to the hotel for breakfast and a leisurely morning to explore at your own pace. After lunch we will visit Sarnath where Buddha gave his first sermon to his first five disciples. We will see the Dhamek Stupa, the extensive ruins of an ancient monastery and the Archaeological Museum. Return to the hotel for some free time before dinner. (B, D)
Day 3 Varanasi.
After breakfast a tour of Varanasi includes the Bharat Mata Temple dedicated to Mother India and the Banaras Hindu University. Also see the Sankat Mochan Temple, dedicated to Hanuman and also known as the Monkey Temple due to the number of monkeys located in the site. After an afternoon to explore independently we meet this evening to attend the Aarti ceremony where prayers are offered to the goddess Ganga on the banks of the river. (B, D)
Day 4 Varanasi to Delhi.
After breakfast in the hotel and a morning at leisure we transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Delhi. On arrival we transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay and meet for dinner tonight. (B, D)
Day 5 Delhi to London.
Transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. Arrive this afternoon. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
28 November to 2 December 2026 • 6 to 10 March 2027 Category Price Twin £1495 Single £1795 Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, three nights hotel accommodation in Varanasi, overnight hotel accommodation in Delhi, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, D – Dinner), Indian wine, beer and soft drinks included with dinner, Tour Manager, excursions, gratuities.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Indian visa.
NB. Minimum numbers are required for this extension to operate.
-
Also of Interest
Landscapes of the Silk Road by Private Train
From Almaty to Tashkent aboard the Orient Silk Road Express
Itinerary at a glance
- Almaty / Lake Issyk-Kul / Bishkek / Samarkand / Shakhrisabz / Dushanbe / Bukhara / Khiva / Tashkent
Exotic India
Discover the wonders of India including Amritsar, Ranthambore, Jaipur & Kerala by Private Plane
Itinerary at a glance
- Tbilisi / Delhi / Agra / Amritsar / Jaipur / Ranthambore National Park / Varanasi / Cochin / Kerala Backwaters / Marari Beach / Cochin / Mumbai / Luxor
Journey from Victoria Falls by Private Train
An escorted journey between Victoria Falls & Pretoria aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail
Itinerary at a glance
- Victoria Fallls / Hwange Game Reserve / Matopos / Antelope Park / Great Zimbabwe Monument / Limpopo Province / Kapama Game Reserve / Kingdom of eSwatini / Maputo / Kruger National Park / Pretoria
Secrets of Wild India
An escorted tour of the wildlife & wonders of Western India including seven nights aboard the Deccan Odyssey
Itinerary at a glance
- Mumbai / Gir National Park / Ellora Caves / Aurangabad / Pench National Park / Tadoba Tiger Reserve / Ajanta Caves / Nashik / Godavari Ghats
South Africa & Namibia by Private Train
A journey from Pretoria to Swakopmund aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail Private Train
Itinerary at a glance
- Johannesburg / Pretoria / Kimberley / Upington / Fish River Canyon / Kolmanskop / Luderitz / Keetmanshoop / Quiver Tree Forest / Sossusvlei / Windhoek / Otjiwarongo / Etosha National Park / Namib Desert / Walvis Bay / Swakopmund
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000