Jewels of the Deccan

• Day 01 – Mumbai

  Early in the evening at 1530 hours, assemble at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus to complete registration and check-in formalities to begin your journey with Deccan Odyssey. After a traditional Indian welcome by the staff followed by a refreshing drink, check-in to your respective cabins.
  
  Settle and relax onboard, as the train leaves for Bijapur in Karnataka. Dinner and overnight stay onboard.

• Day 02 – Bijapur

  Start the day with hearty breakfast served onboard. While you treat your taste buds, the luxury train rolls into Bijapur. The erstwhile capital of the Sultans of Deccan and now a popular city of Karnataka, Bijapur was established by Kalyani Chalukyas between 10th and 11th centuries. In its days of the Adil Shah dynasty, the city was one among the renowned cities of India surpassing great cities like that of Agra and Delhi. The generous support of Adil Shahi Sultans brought flocked scholars, poets, painters, dancers, calligraphers, musicians and Sufi saints from all over the world. Later, Bijapur was also titled as the 'Palmyra of the Deccan'.
  
  Post breakfast disembark and begin sightseeing. First stop of the day is the Gol Gumbaz, the mausoleum of Adil Shah, the former Sultan of Bijapur. The second largest tomb in the world, it is among the most impressive specimens of Deccan architecture. Particularly of interest is that round-domed circular gallery has an amazing feature of echo, even a little murmur. Next, awe at the Jumma Masjid- one of the first mosques of India, the largest medieval canon in the world- Malik-e-Maidan, Mehtar Mahal- a 17th century ornamental entrance and the Ibrahim Rouza, which is one of the Islamic monuments comprising of a 24 m high minarets. After sightseeing, get back to the comforts of Deccan Odyssey for lunch.
  
  While you savor the mouthwatering spread, the train heads towards the next leg of the journey. Enjoy views of passing landscape from your cabins or the luxuries of the train. Dinner and overnight stay onboard.

• Day 03 – Aihole – Pattadakal

  Rise and shine early followed by breakfast. Get ready to disembark the luxury train to explore the historic Aihole and Pattadakal, among the world’s largest temple complexes.
  
  Often called the cradle of Indian architecture, Aihole is a treasure of ancient temples built by Chalukyan kings. One of the world's largest temple complexes, explore over 70 rock-cut temples that have unique designs that are very different from temples in India and elsewhere in the world. Later, head to Pattadakal. In the historic town, marvel at the unique architecture that is a mélange of South Indian (Dravidian) and North Indian (Nagara) construction styles.
  
  Post sightseeing, get back onboard to relish sumptuous lunch. Later, take rest and opt for a short trip. One option is the weaving village of Guledgudda. Watch the fascinating process of weaving where you can watch the creation of masterpieces by the hand and power looms of Ilkal and Khan and also take home souvenirs. The other option is to enjoy sightseeing at Badami, popular for its rock-cut caves and beautifully sculptured temples.
  
  Dinner and overnight stay onboard the Deccan Odyssey as the train moves forward to Hampi.

• Day 04 – Hampi

  As you have your breakfast, the luxury train reaches Hospet. Disembark and get ready for a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site- Hampi.
  
  The 14 th century town set on the banks of the Tungabhadra River was the pride of the Vijaynagara Empire and is extremely popular for the exhibits of the brilliance of architecture of the era. Marvel at the Narasimha statue and other architectural splendors. Walk around the ruins and the river. The highlights of visit include the Virupaksha Temple and the Vittala Temple.
  
  After sightseeing, travel back to Hospet for lunch on the luxury train. Rest for a while and again get ready to explore the Royal Center at Hampi. Marvel at the former citadel of Vijayanagara Kings. Pay a visit to the Queen's Bath (ancient-royal stepped tank), Mahanavami Dibba or great platform, Hazararama Temple, Queens Enclosure along with its Lotus Mahal and the Elephant stables.
  
  Once you are done exploring, be back onboard the Deccan Odyssey. Dinner and overnight stay on the luxury train as it starts for Hyderabad.

• Day 05 – Hyderabad

  On day five, Deccan Odyssey arrives to Hyderabad, the royal city of Nizams. The city’s name is said to be named after Hyder Mahal, the Hindu turned Muslim wife of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. Post breakfast, deboard and proceed to visit Golconda.
  
  The marvellous epitome of Nizami culture and grandeur, explore the mud fort which was formerly the seat of Qutub Shahi dynasty.
  
  After having your fill of the charming heritage sites, return to the comforts of the luxury train.
  
  Arrive onboard for mouth-watering lunch followed by free time or optional shopping tour. Stroll around the vibrant bazaars of Hyderabad and shop for popular local produce such as pearls, lace bangles and ittars (perfumes). Alternatively, opt for shopping and thereafter a lunch of savory and popular food of Hyderabad, delicious Biryani.
  
  In the evening head to the royal Falaknuma Palace. Explore the beautiful palace followed by a sumptuous high tea. Later, proceed to explore the old city area of Charminar and its bustling bazaars. The iconic landmark is among the most recognized structures of India. Ostensibly built, it is interesting to walk through and shop in the markets. The Laad Bazaar specialize in local jewellery, especially exquisite bangles, while Pather Gatti is famous for Deccan pearls.
  
  After a well-spent day, return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner and a restful evening. As you settled in bed, the train departs Hyderabad for Aurangabad.

• Day 06 - Aurangabad – Ellora Caves

  The Deccan Odyssey arrives Aurangabad this morning. The last of the cities of the glorious Mughal Empire, it shares its name with the Mughal Emperor. Besides its own charms, the city is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves. Have your breakfast and then leave for sightseeing.
  
  The Ellora caves are rock-cut caves that were carved between the years 4th to 5th century AD. The finest examples of cave-temple architecture in India, there are 34 rock-cut caves that represent Hindu, Buddhist and art that dates back to the. The cave Kailash temple believed to be a replica of Shiva's celestial abode on Mt. Kailash is an unmissable beauty.
  
  After sightseeing, get back to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch. While you treat your taste buds to sumptuous flavours, enjoy at the passing picture-perfect landscape. The evening is at your own leisure which you spend in company of your favorite cocktail. The luxurious dinner is the right end to your day. Drift off to sleep in your comfy cabins as the Deccan Odyssey proceeds towards Jalgaon.

• Day 07- Ajanta Caves

  Start the day with a healthy breakfast onboard. The train arrives at the Jalgaon station. Deboard and drive to the Ajanta Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
  
  The 30 rock-cut Buddhist caves of Ajanta feature sculptures and paintings of Buddhist religious art. These brilliantly-carved caves date back to the 2nd century BCE to about 480 CE. A mix of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist faith, marvel at the finesses of the artisans.
  
  Get back to the Deccan Odyssey for a lavish lunch. Once you have had the savory meal, disembark and pay a visit to a Mahatma Gandhi's memorial. Honoring the ‘father of the nation’, the Gandhi Teerth teaches lessons path on truth and non-violence.
  
  Be back aboard the Deccan Odyssey. Sit with a sun downer in the evening while watching the scenic beauty of rural India. Dinner onboard followed by overnight stay.

• Day 08 - Mumbai (Departure)

  The Jewels of the Deccan journey ends today. Post breakfast, disembark at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai. Bid goodbye with cherished memories of the tour.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation in double / twin bedded cabin with en suite bathrooms
• All meals (B,L,D)
• Soft beverages during the journey
• Valet service
• Still camera fees
• Guided off train excursions and game drives as illustrated in the itinerary - inclusive of entrance fees, park fees, transport and services of an English speaking local guide

Exclusions:

• Taxes including 5.00% (subject to change as per Govt. directives) Government Service tax, Insurance , gratuities
• Laundry and alcoholic Beverages
• Video and professional Still camera fees
• Arrival and Departure transfers
• International and Domestic air tickets
• Pre and Post tour accommodation and any tour extensions unless specifically mentioned as a part of the journey
• All activities mentioned as ‘options’ in the itinerary.

• Deccan Odyssey does accommodate children but we ask parents to be mindful of the sophisticated adult atmosphere we endeavor to maintain.
• One child up to 5 years of age shall be allowed free of cost in the Deluxe Cabin, subject to sharing of double bed with parents. This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking.
• For families, with a child between 6-12 years of age, or, with two children with one child below 5 years and another between 6-12 years, we recommend the Presidential Suite which has a double bed in the bedroom and can be shared with a child below 5 years and a sofa cum bed in the living room which can accommodate the older child. In this case, the child/children will be accommodated free of cost.
• In case of two children between 6-12 years of age travelling with their parents, you will have to take 2 cabins. The first child pays 25% of the adult fare and the second child will have to pay 50% of the adult fare. One of the parents will have to be present with the child / children in the cabin.
• Please note that we do not have the facility for interconnecting cabins.
• All applicable taxes will be charged extra.

PAYMENT & CANCELLATION TERMS