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Luxury Train Tours >> Deccan Odyssey |
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THE DECCAN ODYSSEY
The Deccan Odyssey Train is a joint venture between Indian Railways & Tourism Ministry of Maharashtra with on board services being provided by Taj Group of Hotels. Everything on the train reflects the lifestyles of Indian Royalty. The name is derived from the route it follows, the Deccan Plateau, which has been under the rule of dynasties such as the Maharathas& Mughals.
The Deccan Odyssey's sheer luxury is a sight to behold. Everything in the train reflects the ways of Indian Royalty. The plush interiors, an awesome cuisine and grate sites to see makes the journey memorable. This luxurious train transports its guests on a remarkable sojourn of a land shining in legions grandeur - serene beaches, magnificent forts & palaces and experiencing divine tales etched in colossal rocks.
A weeklong royal journey is through some of the best places in Maharashtra namely Mumbai, Ganapatipule, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Tarkarli, Sawantwadi, Goa, Kolhapur, Pune, Aurangabad, Ellora, Ajanta and Nasik. The objective of running "The Deccan Odyssey" train is primarily to showcase the best of tourism assets of Maharashtra like pristine beauty of Konkan coast, the art, the culture, the heritage of Maharashtra (including world heritage sites of Ajanta & Ellora), as well as Maharashtra's local arts, crafts and cuisine.
It touches Goa, an already established tourist destination and back to Pune, the City of Maratha power & Maharashtrian culture and fast coming up Information Technology Centre of Maharashtra. Pune is also surrounded by many a religious sites and historical forts and lakes. From there one to Aurangabad – a city founded by none other than the Mogul emperor The Aurangajeb which is predominantly a cultural centre of Maharashtra.
Coaches Deccan Odyssey is also a place where the world heritage sites of Ajanta, Ellora known for the wall painting or frescoes painted on the walls of caves carved out of solid basalt rock and have briefed the vagaries of time for centuries together are located. At Ajanta – the Buddhist sculptures vividly described lives and legend of Buddha and the stone colours even today spells bounds the visitor. The Ellora caves – a complex of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain caves are the living example of supreme architecture prevalent in those time and the Kailas Temple, the best of all and the greatest monolithic sculpture – the world has ever seen is a marvel in itself.
Maharashtra – it has, for five thousand years, seen various dynasties beyond Vindhya ruling over the Deccan Plateau from the days of Rashtrakutas, Vakatakas, Satvahanas, Shilaharas, Chalukyas, Yadavas, Marathas, Portuguese and English.
All these dynasties have left behind their marks in the forms of monument and heritage sites, the wadas, the palaces, the churches, the temples, the synagogues, the mosques. The State with 27 wild life sanctuaries, 4 National Parks, numerous religious sites, places of scenic beauty, scores of beaches, thousands of forts and unique culture depicted in its folk arts, the colourful festivals, its cuisine, handicraft. A tourist will get a glimpse of all these just in seven nights, a capsule of Maharashtra – the Great State.
About The Train
Deccan Odyssey 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. Inspired by the imperial carriages used by the Maharajas of the yore for traveling, each of the coaches of this luxury train is inspired from a different royal eras of Maharashtra ruled by diverse dynasties.
All the cabins of Deccan Odyssey are fully equipped with facilities like air-conditioning, internet connectivity and personalized guest amenities that make sure that your journey would be a comfortable and memorable one. Moreover, the multi-cuisine restaurant, well stocked bar, high-tech conference cart and a spa & massage cabin onboard add on the colors of merriment to your entire jaunt.
Deccan Odyssey History
The huge success of the first Indian luxury train 'Palace on Wheels' paved the way to the birth of another deluxe rail journey in the south western part of the country. A brainchild of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), Deccan Odyssey is the fruitful result of the relentless efforts of its visionary. The first proposal to launch a deluxe train tour in Maharashtra was made in the year 2001 and accordingly the MTDC and the Indian Railway Ministry signed a MOU in the same year to turn this proposal into a reality.
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) got a green signal from the Railway Board to start the work on Deccan Odyssey in the year 2002. It took ICF members around five months to finalize the design of this luxury rail in India. It was not a cake walk for the designers to give shape to their vision and thus few more months have been spent on its construction. The later part of the year 2003 saw the completion of this blue Limousine on wheels and not to mention, the embodiment of the designs stole everyone's vision when it was placed into the tracks. Aligned with the best royal trains of the world such as Blue Train of South Africa or Orient Express of Europe, Deccan Odyssey was suffused with every modern facility that contributes towards making each luxury train tour to Maharashtra comfy and deluxe.
The dawn of 16th January, 2004 brought a new turn to the Maharashtra tourism industry with the inaugural ceremony of the regal journey of Deccan Odyssey Indian from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Mumbai. The world famous Taj Group of Hotels had also joined their hands with Deccan Odyssey to offer a 5 star hotel facility onboard to the guests. Special care has been taken to provide the guests with the warmest hospitality services they have ever expected.
Deccan Odyssey Coaches
Out of the 21 plush coaches, there are 11 passenger cars and 2 presidential suites for accommodation in the luxurious Deccan Odyssey. The passenger cars have 4 coupes each and the presidential suites have two coupes each. Attached washrooms with running hot and cold water, intercom, channel music, CD/MP3 players, wall-to-wall carpeting and other such luxurious amenities are provided in the accommodation area of the train. Each passenger car has a lounge with a plasma TV installed for the entertainment.
Other than accommodation, Deccan Odyssey boasts of two cars for restaurants. There are also are cars for spa rejuvenation, sauna and gymnasium, a lounge-cum-bar car and a conference car which can be converted into a dance floor at night. And during the tour, if you want, you can get a makeover at the beauty parlor onboard. A personal attendant, 'khidmatgar' is also appointed in each cabin to look after the comfort of the guests. Separate cars are provided to staff, generator, luggage, pantry and for other such reasons.
Each coach is intricately designed to imitate the regal flair or particular era and time of the Deccan historical milieu, under the reign of different dynasties. The designing of each coach is also influenced by the private carriages used by erstwhile maharajas for traveling from one destination to other. The cabins also feature classical décor elements with the perfect mix of modern amenities & comforts. There also are facilities available that assure a luxurious and pampering experience for the guests.
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11 air conditioned deluxe cabins |
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2 presidential suites |
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Beauty parlor |
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Restaurants and bar |
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Spa |
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Gymnasium |
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Conference |
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Internet connectivity |
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Television |
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Attached bathrooms |
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Butler services |
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Services also available for disabled guests |
Dining
For dining on-board, there are 2 restaurants available with gourmet selections of culinary delights. The mesmerizing interiors of the restaurant also leave the onlookers spellbound. The menu features a huge variety of Indian and international cuisines. Thus, the platter presented before the guests is prepared by professional chefs. The staff also makes sure of excellent service along with creating the charm of the opulent era. The award-winning Taj Hotels and Palaces catering staff is appointing in the dining cars of the Deccan Odyssey.
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Peshwa I |
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Peshwa II |
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Mumbai Hi is the onsite bar equipped with a host of beverage selections such as wines, spirits, and several non-alcoholic drinks as well. |
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Sitting Lounge
For guests interested in relaxing, there are separate smoking suites available here that one could head to. Besides, the Mumbai Hi bar is also a great place to enjoy. A cabin here has been specifically dedicated to shopping thrifts who can purchase a number of local craft products, while traveling as well.
Conference Car
The train also features a separate Conference Car to take care of the needs of the business class guests. There are all contemporary amenities and facilities available to cater the corporate endeavors. The conference car has spacious interiors and is equipped with uninterrupted Internet access. There also are numerous other amenities provided to ensure a successful business endeavor.
Health SpaFitted with a number of equipment, the Fitness Suite is the place regularly visited by guests interested in their health care regimen. Even for guests who are not so regular with their fitness routine, a visit to this cabin will definitely attract them for further visits, for sure. The Steam bath and Ayurvedic body massage in the onsite spa will rejuvenate your souls and keep your spirits up throughout the trip, and later.
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Detailed Itinerary
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Duration : |
7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS |
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Places to See : |
Mumbai - Sindhudurg - Goa - Kolhapur – Aurangabad(Ellora) - Chandrapur |
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(Tadoba Wildlife Sancturary)- Wardha (Sevagram)- Jalgaon(Ajanta) - |
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Nashik and Mumbai. |
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| Day 01/Wednesday |
| Place :Mumbai Depart |
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Report by 330 p.m. at ChhatrapatiShivaji Rail Terminus, Mumbai, a world heritage site. After check-in formalities & tour brief, train departs by 430 p.m. from Mumbai. Wine and dine in the luxurious comforts of this train and whistle off on your royal voyage. |
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| Day 02 /Thursday |
| Place : Sindhudurg&Tarkali Beach |
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Alight the train this morning at the SindhudurgNagari Railway station and transfer to Malvan Jetty for a comfortable boat ride. Enjoy the mesmerizing view of flora, birds and caressing waves on the ride to Sindhudurg Fort, strategically located on a rocky island. Marvel at the craftsmanship of the solid structure of this one-time naval base which is of the best-preserved forts of the Marathas and dates back to the year 1664. Apart from the huge stones, other building material involved 2000 khandis (72,576 kg) of iron, comprising the massive curtain wall and bastions. A notable feature is that the foundation stones were laid down firmly in molten lead.
Later this afternoon, proceed to Tarkarli beach resort via luxury A/C bus. The virgin beach of Tarkarli boasts soft silver sands, pristine clear waters, and a wonderful location at the confluence of the river Karli and the Arabian Sea. The wide river, beautiful sailboats, tiny islands and hamlets at the river bank all contribute to the picture-postcard beauty of Tarkarli. Enjoy a relaxed lunch, after which you have some free time to unwind in this idyllic setting.
Your next stop is Dhamapur village, stopping en route to visit a Cashew factory. At Dhamapur, visit the ancient temple of Goddess Bhagawati and Bharadi Devi situated on the banks of a beautiful lake. Rejoin the train at Kudal Railway Station and enjoy dinner on board.
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| Day 03/ Friday |
| Place: Old Goa & Beaches |
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Breakfast on board. Arrival at Karmali Railway Station at 7:30 hours.
Disembark for excursion to St. Augustine Church- once largest cathedral in Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus - a 16th Century Church where the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier are enshrined.
Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi that began as a mosque but now is now an archaeological museum for Goan antiques. Walk through Fontanhas, the Latin quarters at Panjim and see centuries old Portuguese Style Houses.
Return to luxury train at Verna Railway Station for lunch in traditional Goan Cuisine and spend some time at leisure on train.
At 1600 hours depart for cultural night & dinner at beach side hotel. Return to train after dinner. Overnight halt at railway station.
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| Day 4 |
| Goa – Offbeat (Saturday) |
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Morning – After breakfast proceed for sightseeing. Visit Mangeshi, a Hindu Temples of God Shiva revealing typical architecture of old temples.
Depart from Mangeshi Temple to SafaMasjid, a prominent Islamic shrine in Ponda, commonly regarded the citadel of Hindu pilgrimages in Goa. Built in 1560 by Ibrahim Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur.
From here proceed to one of the biggest and finest Spice Farm in the Country a "Sahakari Spice Farm" at Ponda village. Situated among the lush green surroundings of Ponda a place is extremely popular among international tourist. Visitors are traditionally welcomed at the entrance. After brief halt in the restaurant for welcome drink and snacks, a guided tour of the farm starts. This organic spice farm has variety of herbal and medicinal trees. The guide explains different spices and their medical values during tour which is about 45 minutes.
Typical Goan lunch is served here. In free time one can also take Elephant ride at own cost.
From farm house proceed to one of the finest heritage house of 16th century known as "Menezes Braganza House". It is one of the last remaining structures that date back to the Pre-Portuguese era in Goa. The architecture and the interiors of the house make you feel as if you are going back in history. The structure has a very inviting feel to it. It is one of the oldest heritage houses of Goa. This has been the traditional family home of the Braganzas for more than four centuries.
From Braganza House proceed to Madgaon Railway Station to board the train.
Next destination - Kolhapur.Dinner on board.
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| Day 5/Sunday |
| Place:Kohlapur |
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After breakfast on the train, board the bus by 9:00 hours to visit New Palace, a royal palace partly converted into museum, the museum comprises of rare paintings and artefacts used by the royal family.
Then proceed to BhawaniMandap, here antiques found during the excavations at Brahmagiri, old sculptures, filigree work in sandal wood and ivory, old coins and paintings of master artists of the region are all displayed.
Then move on to see an exquisitely carved Mahalaxmi Temple, a temple of goddess Ambabai visited by millions of pilgrims.
From temple proceed to Shalini Palace built of intricately carved black stone & Italian Marble stands on the west side of lake Rankala, Guests also have the opportunity to watch traditional Martial Art locally known as "MardaniKhel" at Palace and cultural programme.
Return to train for lunch and time at leisure.
Dinner on board.
Train departs for Daulatabad at night.
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| Day 6/Monday |
| Place :Ellora Caves & Aurangabad |
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Next morning, travelling along the rolling hills and picturesque ruins of the past, you travel way back in time to Aurangabad. Founded by Aurangzeb, Aurangabad's heritage is rich and varied.
After breakfast in the train, a luxury bus takes you to the majestic fortress of Daulatabad. An impregnable defence in its day, it still stands tall and proud. Walk around the ruins, which tell you extraordinary stories of bravery and valour.
Next stop is the world famous Ellora Caves. Just 30kms from Aurangabad the historical Ellora caves is now a World Heritage Site. The Hindu, Jain and Buddhist caves at Ellora are among the finest in India. Lying on the ancient trade route, the caves are thought to be the work of priests and pilgrims who used the route. Abandoned and forgotten for a few centuries, the 34 caves were cut out of volcanic rocks of the Deccan trap. 12 are Buddhist (600 to 700 AD), 17 Hindus (800-1000 AD) and five Jain (1000 -1300 AD). The Buddhist caves belong to the Vajrayana sect of the Mahayana School. The caves include 'viharas' (monasteries) and 'chaityas' (chapels) where the monks worshipped. The Hindu caves lie in the centre of the group. The most famous of them being the KailasanathaTemple(8th century). It is the most magnificent of all the rock-cut structures at Ellora. Completely open to the elements, it is the only building that was begun from the top. The Jain caves, less grand in comparison to the others are richly carved with lotus, elephant, lions and 'tirthankaras' of Lord Mahavira. They offer an aura of peace and simplicity.
Come back to Aurangabad for lunch at the Taj hotel with live cultural entertainment.
Next stop is the Shivaji Museum with weapons and antiques from the great Maratha Empire. Just beyond the city, lies the Aurangabad Caves with highly ornate and strikingly detailed sculptures and architecture. Dating from the Vakataka and the succeeding Kalachuri dynasties (2nd and 6th centuries AD), these 10 caves, five in each group are also a World Heritage Site.
Move on to the Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, a tribute of the Emperor's son to his mother. A replica of TajMahal, the fairy tale Maqbara stands out as the only piece of Moghul architecture on the Deccan Plateau. Spend some time browsing through Paithani and Himroo showrooms for a perfect memorabilia.
Soon, it's time to go back to the station for a mouth-watering feast in the train and then to travel even further back in time.
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| Day 7/Tuesday |
| Place:Ajanta Caves |
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Morning – Arrival at Jalgaon railway station. Board the bus to reach Ajanta Caves.
Renowned Buddhist caves of Ajanta are World Heritage Site. Witness some of the finest paintings and sculptures of the second century AD. 'Bodhisattva Padmapani', 'Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara', 'The Birth of the Buddha' & 'Thousand Buddha's' are a few amongst the many fine murals & sculptures.
At noon board train at Jalgaon railway station.
Proceed to Nashik. Lunch on-board.
Leisure Time on board till evening.
Alight at Nashik Road railway station to board the bus for departure to PanchawatiGhat a holy place known for KumbhMela. Next, visit to Kala Ram Temple built in 1794.
Evening board the train at Deolali railway station.
Farewell dinner on-board.
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| Day 8: |
| Mumbai Return/Wednesday |
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| Enjoy breakfast on board as your journey comes back full circle to ChhatrapatiShivaji Rail Terminus, Mumbai by 7:30 am. |
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Deccan Odyssey Schedule
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Deccan Odyssey embarks on its journey across the heart of Deccan region each Wednesday from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai. Select the date of journey which suits your travel requirement the most from the list of all journeys scheduled for the year 2015 - 2016. Journey run throughout the year except the months of May-July and include all table d'hôte meals, service and off train excursions. |
| Confirmed departure dates for the season October 2015 to January 2016: |
| December, 2015 |
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Tariff
Tariff on Request.
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