The Deccan Odyssey train not only gets you places, but it gets you there in style. Presenting seamless fusion of romance of a bygone era with contemporary finesse, this luxury rail journey in India offers unparalleled ways to explore the true essence of Indian culture.

This package for two includes:

• Economy class airfare to/from India on Singapore Airlines via Singapore
• 7 nights twin bedded cabin accommodation on board Deccan Odyssey
• 3 nights share twin hotel accommodation
• 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
• Soft beverages during the rail journey
• Sightseeing and excursions as specified in the itinerary, inclusive of entrance and park fees
• Professional English-speaking local guide
• Departure taxes, security and fuel charges (subject to change)

Itinerary

DAY 1: Australia/Mumbai

Depart Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth on your Singapore Airlines flight to Mumbai via Singapore. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

DAY 2: Mumbai

See Mumbai’s most famous example of Victorian Gothic architecture—Victoria Terminus—and witness the excitement of the morning commute. Pass by the Gateway of India—a famous arch that pays homage to Hindu and Islamic architecture near the waterfront. Drive along Marine Drive and make a stop at the 200-year old Shiva temple known as Babulnath. Watch as local Hindus carry milk and water to pour over the Linga—a symbol of the Lord Shiva. Then journey to Haji Ali mosque, where you’ll experience the beauty of 14th Century Islamic architecture.

DAY 3: Mumbai/Vadodara

Early this afternoon, assemble at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus to complete the check in formalities and begin your enchanting journey to Vadodara. You will receive a traditional Indian welcome and enjoy a refreshing welcome drink. As you settle in to your delightful cabins, the Deccan Odyssey shall depart Mumbai for Vadodara. Accommodation: On board Deccan Odyssey.

DAY 4: Vadodara

Today you arrive at the capital of the Gaekwads – Vadodara. You will disembark and proceed to visit Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only complete and unchanged Pre Mughal Islamic city in India. After lunch, you will visit the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, originally constructed as a school for the Maharaja’s children. Today, art lovers can view a large number of works of art displayed in the museum. Enjoy high tea at the resplendent Laxmi Vilas Palace, built in 1890, and the residence of the Royal family even today, reputedly four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Witness a folk performance typical of the region as you savour some of the special delicacies from the Royal kitchens. Return to the Deccan Odyssey as it heads for Udaipur.

DAY 5: Udaipur

Arrive at the princely city of Udaipur in the morning. Set on the shores of the placid Lake Pichola the city is one of the most romantic in India, surrounded by scenic hills. Enjoy your breakfast as you admire the picturesque landscape of the Aravali hills. You will then disembark to visit the famous City Palace which houses the spectacular Crystal Gallery. The tour of this magnificent city is completed with a boat cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. Later, embark on a walking tour through the Old City of Udaipur. Sample the exquisite variety of handicrafts. You will return to the Deccan Odyssey for a relaxed evening and dinner as we depart for Jodhpur.

DAY 6: Jodhpur

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board, unwind and experience the striking panorama of the Thar Desert, arriving at Jodhpur. You may wish to step out have the option of visiting a weavers’ village, a potters’ village as well as a tiny village to meet the Bishnoi tribe, indigenous to India. Following lunch, explore the magnificent city of Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City. This former capital of Marwar boasts some of the finest architecture from the Rajput era, renowned for its superb forts and glorious palaces. Experience glimpses of the lifestyle of the residents as you explore the city. Walk through the bustle of the Old Clock Towermarket. Continue to the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, the pride of Jodhpur. In the evening enjoy a wide array of sumptuous Marwar barbecued delights served in the royal courtyard of Mehrangarh Fort as you admire the cityscape from atop. Having taken in your share of the sublime beauty of Jodhpur, return to the Deccan Odyssey and head for Agra.

DAY 7: Agra

Arriving at Agra, you will visit the Taj Mahal, which was Emperor Shah Jahan’s gift of love to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and is truly the world’s most wondrous monument. After lunch, your tour of Agra continues as you visit Itmad-ud-Daulah, a marble mausoleum built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, in memory of her father, Ghiyas Beg. Afterwards, proceed to Agra Fort, another outstanding example of Mughal architecture. Later, you have the opportunity to visit the local markets to admire the exquisite Pietra Dura (marble inlay) artefacts and Mughal ornaments. Return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner and your onward journey to Sawai Madhopur.

DAY 8: Sawai/Madhopur

Sawai Madhopur, is the alighting point for the famous Ranthambore National Park, and India’s efforts to conserve the dwindling tiger population can be seen here. The park is one of the finest tiger reserves in the country and the most likely place to spot one of the majestic animals. Enjoy adventurous morning and afternoon safaris at the reserve. If it’s your lucky day, you could spot a tiger lolling around lazily in the sun. After a leisurely lunch, set out for a village safari to meet tribal members who subsist on farming and hunting. These friendly folk are warm and welcoming, happy to show guests around their villages, giving deep insights into their daily lives. After a fulfilling afternoon, proceed for high tea at the Sawai Madhopur Lodge, the former hunting lodge of the erstwhile royal family of Jaipur. Return to the Deccan Odyssey where you can relax with a drink before dinner on board, as the Deccan Odyssey sets off for Jaipur.

DAY 9: Jaipur

Arrive at the historic capital of Rajasthan – Jaipur, often called the Pink City. After breakfast, explore the Amber Fort that overlooks the beautiful Maota Lake. The fort is a sprawling complex of courtyards, halls and rooms adorned with beautiful paintings, precious stones and mirrors. Behold the ‘Hall of Mirrors’, where a single lamplight reflects in many mirrors, and lights up the entire room, creating a dazzling effect. Enroute, visit the Palace of Winds, famous for its intricate pink sandstone carving and a beautiful view of the city. Afterwards you will visit the famous City Palace. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armoury, costumes and carpets. This afternoon, you may choose to participate in an optional tour or explore on your own the colourful bazaars of the Pink City which offer a range of ethnic handicrafts produced in the city centre and its outskirts. You will return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner on board as it departs for Delhi.

DAY 10: Disembark in Delhi

Early this morning, after breakfast, you will disembark at the Delhi Cantt Railway Station. Bid farewell to the Deccan Odyssey as your royal passage through the grand vistas of India comes to an end. Upon arrival at the station, you will be transferred to the hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure

DAY 11: Delhi/Australia

Farewell India as you transfer to the airport for your overnight homebound flight.