Luxury Deccan Odyssey Train – Jewels of the Deccan 9 nts / 10 days

OVERVIEW

With Jewels of Deccan route of the Luxury Train Deccan Odyssey you get ready to explore the true beauty of India, that lies in its popular tourist destinations. Visit the historic monuments at Bijapur, seek blessings at holy shrines of Aihole and Pattadakal, enjoy sightseeing at Badami, have a look at the architectural marvels of Hampi, shop for bangles and ittars in Hyderabad and visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites- Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Get an insight of India’s glorious history and rich culture with this royal journey. Welcome to the Deccan Odyssey.

Departure Dates for Deccan Odyssey – Jewels of the Deccan (Date of Arrival in Mumbai)

For 2019 : 27 December

Day 01 (Wednesday) Arrive Mumbai

Today you are met at the Mumbai International Airport you are met by our company executive with your name placard who would assist you to the Car and then transfer you to your pre booked Hotel.
Overnight stay at Hotel in Mumbai.

Day 02 (Thursday) Board the Deccan Odyssey at Mumbai – on to Bijapur

Breakfast at the Hotel Early this evening assemble at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus at approximately 1530 hours to complete the registration processand check in formalities for your Jewels of the Deccan journey, as you receive a traditional Indian welcome and enjoy a refreshingwelcome drink.After completion of all formalities, you will be shown to your delightful cabins. As you settle in, the Deccan Odyssey shall depart Mumbai for Bijapur in Karnataka.

Day 03 (Friday) Bijapur

Relish breakfast this morning as the Deccan Odyssey arrives at Bijapur, the historic capital of the Sultans of Deccan.Established between the 10th and 11th centuries by the Kalyani Chalukyas, Bijapur changed hands often, passing into the hands ofnew conquerors and invaders. In the second half of 16th and early 17th century, under the aegis of the Adil Shahi dynasty, theircapital city of Bijapur occupied a prominent place among the celebrated cities of India and even surpassed great cities of Delhi,Agra and Mughal India. Due to the secular nature and liberal patronage of the Adil Shahi Sultans, many scholars, poets, painters, dancers, calligraphers, musicians, Sufi saints and other men of arts flocked to Bijapur which also came to be known as the ‘Palmyra of the Deccan’. After breakfast, disembark and first head to the Gol Gumbaz, literally ‘round dome’, and the second largest tomb in the world; the mausoleum of Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur, it is a structural triumph of Deccan architecture, with a circular gallery where the tiniest of whispers gets magnified owing to the unique acoustics of the dome. Next, head to the Jumma Masjid, known as one of the first mosques in India and then onto Malik-e-Maidan, the largest medieval cannon in the world. Don’t hesitate to make a wish here as legend has it that if you touch the gun and make a wish, it will come true! Visit Mehtar Mahal, a 17th century ornamental gateway to a mosque. Then, drive to and explore Ibrahim Rouza, considered amongst the most elegant Islamic monuments in India; its 24m high minarets said to have inspired those of the Taj Mahal. Return to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch on board as it departs for Aihole & Pattadakal. Spend the evening marveling at the subtly changing shades of the formidable granite landscape as the Deccan Odyssey snakes its way through the Deccan plateau.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner onboard
Overnight on the Deccan Odyssey

Day 04 (Saturday) Aihole – Pattadakal

Rise early this morning, and after breakfast head out to explore the temples and ancient settlements of Aihole and Pattadakal, oneof the world’s largest temple complexes.Aihole, is often called the cradle of Indian architecture. Explore a few of the over 70 rock cut temples constructed by theChalukyan kings in a completely experimental style, with each temple different from the others in the complex and even from other temples in India itself Continue on to Pattadakal situated on the banks of the Malaprabha River and explore the architectural style here which combines South Indian (Dravidian) and North Indian (Nagara) forms. In fact this architecture can be seen to have influenced later architecture commissioned by the Hoysala and other dynasties. For lunch, head back to the Deccan Odyssey Post lunch, you can choose an optional tour to the lovely weaving village of Guledgud, famous for its hand and power looms of ilkal and khann. Observe the process of weaving and head to an outlet where you can pick up lovely souvenirs to carry back home. OR visit the rock cut caves and sculptured temples in Badami. Head back to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner as it makes its way to Hampi.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on board
Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

Day 05 (Sunday) Hampi

This morning as you enjoy breakfast, the Deccan Odyssey rolls into Hospet. Today you will visit the iconic City of Victory -Hampi, a World Heritage site, famous for its splendid architecture, sculptures and their historical significance.A short drive quickly changes your landscape from the city bustle to sentient massive boulders as you reach Hampi. Stop at theNarasimha statue and spend some time taking pictures and looking around.Next head to the mustard Ganesh, located at the base of the Hemkuta hills, and quite a misnomer as the elephant God statue here is anything but small! Take in the breathtaking vistas around the hills with their little caves and alcoves. Walk the banks of the Tungabhadra River as you leave the Virupaksha temple on to the famed Vittala temple, the polar power sites of Hampi, one a living temple, the other a most extravagant architectural showpiece. Head back to Hospet for lunch on board the Deccan Odyssey. Post lunch, disembark once more to continue your exploration, reaching the Royal Center at Hampi. This area was the citadel of the Vijayanagara kings and encompasses courtly and military structures. Visit the Queens Bath, the Stepped Tank, the Mahanavami Dibba or great platform, where a ramp is available to reach its summit, the Hazararama Temple, the Queens Enclosure with its Lotus Mahal and the Elephant stables. After a full day of visiting the wonders of Hampi, return to the Hospet station. Board the Deccan Odyssey for your onward journey to Hyderabad as you sit down at dinner.
Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner on board
Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

Day 06 (Monday) Hyderabad

This morning the Deccan Odyssey rolls into royal city of the Nizams, Hyderabad. Legends abound over how this capital of theAsaf Jahi dynasty came to be called Hyderabad. One of the more interesting ones is that it was named after Bhagmati, the Hinduwife of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, who converted to Islam and changed her name to Hyder Mahal.After an early breakfast this morning, disembark and drive towards the epitome of Nizami culture and grandeur, Golconda.Originally a mud fort, it soon acquired impressive proportions after becoming the seat of power of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Return to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch and a little rest. Alternately, you could also choose to take an optional shopping tour. Hyderabad is a city known for its pearls, lac bangles and custom made oil based fragrances or “ittars” amongst other specials. Spend your morning shopping and follow it up with lunch comprising the famed Hyderabadi Biryani. Continue on to Falaknuma Palace, the name means “like the sky”, as it stands tall, reaching for the clouds. Take a tour of this beautiful palace followed by a sumptuous high tea. Thereafter explore the old city area of Charminar and its bustling bazaars. Standing tall in the centre of the city, Charminar is a global icon for Hyderabad and one of the most recognized structures of India. It was ostensibly built there by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah to fulfill his vow of building a mosque if the plague epidemic ravaging the city ceased. It is interesting to walk through and shop in the markets in the Charminar area, a busy bustling area. Walk through Laad Bazaar for the local jewellery, especially exquisite bangles, and to Pather Gatti for the famous Deccan pearls. Return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner and a restful evening as Deccan Odyssey departs Hyderabad for Aurangabad.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board; High tea at the Falaknuma Palace
Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

Day 07 (Tuesday) Aurangabad – Ellora Caves

Aurangabad, named after the last Great Mughal Aurangzeb, is an industrial town in Maharashtra and the stop from where tohead out to visit the exceptional Ellora Caves, a World Heritage site. The city itself has deep Mughal influences and there areseveral monuments of note here; the Daulatabad Fort, Bibi-ka-Makbara and the city’s 52 gates, each with its own history,amongst them.As you enjoy breakfast, the Deccan Odyssey arrives at Aurangabad, from where a scenic drive takes you to the Ellora Caves, carved into the side of a basaltic hill 30 km from the city. The finest specimen of cave-temple architecture in India, the site encompasses 34 rock-cut shrines representing Buddhist, Jain and Hindu art dating from the 4th to 5th century AD. The 12 caves to the south are Buddhist, the 17 in the centre Hindu, and the 5 caves to the north are Jain. The most remarkable is the Kailash temple, meant to be a replica of Shiva’s celestial abode on Mt. Kailash. It is the best example of rock cut architecture and an engineering marvel. Savour a leisurely lunch on board as the hinterland of Maharashtra sweeps past, with its ever-changing colors and landscape. In the evening, sit back, unwind and enjoy cocktails fixed by our bartender onboard, followed by a sumptuous dinner and a well deserved rest as the Deccan Odyssey proceeds towards Jalgaon to visit the exquisite Ajanta Caves.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board
Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

Day 08 (Wednesday) Ajanta Caves

The Deccan Odyssey arrives at the Jalgaon station this morning from where, after breakfast on board, you will disembark anddrive to the Ajanta Caves, another World Heritage site and an architectural marvel of its time. The 30 rock-hewn Buddhist cavesat Ajanta have been masterfully carved and are adorned with sculptures and paintings of Buddhist religious art, depictinguniversal pictorial art and are known to depict the fusion between Buddhist and Hindu faith.Lunch will be on board the Deccan Odyssey. Post lunch, you will disembark once more to visit a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi considered to be one of the most important thought leaders of not just India but the World. One can learn a lot from visiting the Gandhi Teerth which pays ode to the man who quoted “My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God.Non-violence is the means of realising Him.” In the evening watch the tapestry of rural India unfold as you sip a sun downer before dinner as Deccan Odyssey pulls into its last leg of journey to Mumbai.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board.
Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

Day 09 (Thursday) Disembark in Mumbai

Breakfast on board Early this morning, after breakfast, you will disembark at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai.Bid farewell to the Deccan Odyssey as your royal passage through the grand vistas of India comes to an end Our Executive will pick you from Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Railway Station and will transfer you in private Car to your pre booked Hotel.
Overnight stay at Hotel in Mumbai

Day 10 (Friday) Leave Mumbai

After breakfast check out from the hotel and our company executive would assist you and transfer you to the Mumbai International Airport to board flight for onward Journey.

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Ramada Plaza Palm Grove Mumbai

Ramada Plaza Palm Grove offers 5-star luxury on Juhu Beach. Providing free parking and buffet breakfast, it has a fitness centre and hot tub. Boasting views from oversized windows, rooms at Palm Grove Ramada have a flat-screen TV, safe and seating area. Private bathrooms come with separate shower and bath areas. Guests can relax at the hotel’s steam rooms or enjoy soothing massages. Other facilities include a book and handicraft store, beauty salon and internet cafe. European, Italian and Indian cuisines are served at the Tangerine Cafe. Asian dishes are available at the Oriental Bowl Restaurant. The Shooters Bar offers drinks and snacks. Ramada Plaza Palm Grove is 5 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. The popular Pali Hill is located within 4 km from the hotel. Hotel offers 115 Rooms

The Oberoi Mumbai

The Oberoi offers luxury and convenience with its 24-hour spa, fitness and concierge service. It also features 5 food and beverage options offering a variety of cuisines. Free WiFi is available for 30 minutes. The Oberoi Mumbai's elegant rooms feature wooden floors, large windows offering beautiful views and en suite bathroom separated by a glass panel with electronic blinds. Rooms are equipped with an LCD TV, tea/coffee maker and iPod docking station. Free local newspapers are available. Guests can relax with a swim at the outdoor heated pool or enjoy shopping at the high-end shopping arcade. The Oberoi Spa offers a variety of treatments and therapies. Guest services include 24-hour laundry service and babysitting. European, Asian and Indian specialities are featured on the menu at Fenix, alongside traditional Japanese delicacies. Vetro serves Italian dishes, while Indian cuisine can be savoured at Ziya. The Eau Bar overlooks the Arabian sea and features a live Jazz band. The Champagne Lounge serves an extensive selection of Champagne and teas. Situated at Nariman Point at the end of Marine Drive, The Oberoi Mumbai is a 45-minute drive from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. A 20-minute drive leads to the railway station. Hotel Offers 287 Rooms

Trident Bandra Kurla Mumbai

Trident Bandra Kurla provides an outdoor swimming pool and full spa services. Concierge services and room service are available 24 hours. Stylish with accents of red, the air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, DVD Player and iPod connections. A well-stocked minibar and a personal safe are also included. En suite bathrooms come with either a shower or a bathtub. Trident Bandra Kurla is located in North Mumbai, a 15-minute drive from the domestic airport. It is a 20-minute drive from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport and a 40-minute drive from Western Railway Terminus. Botticino restaurant serves fine wine and Italian dishes, while 022 restaurant offers an interactive sushi bar, as well as Western and Asian food. Other dining options include regional Indian food at Maya restaurant and salads at Trident Patisserie & Delicatessen. At Trident Spa & Fitness Centre, guests can look forward to relaxing massage treatments or a good workout at the gym. Hotel offers 436 Rooms

Taj Mahal Palace , Mumbai

Standing majestically opposite the Gateway of India, this iconic 5-star hotel features a landscaped pool, fitness facilities and a first-rate spa. The hotel provides 11 dining options. Hotel offers 560 Rooms. The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower is 2 km from Mumbai’s city centre and 32 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Free parking is available. Featuring a private balcony, elegant rooms are tastefully furnished with fine linen and classic wood furnishings. They offer the comfort of a flat-screen TV, sofa and luxurious bathrooms that feature a bathtub. Enjoy the use of steam rooms and sauna facilities after an energizing workout at the well-equipped gym. Attentive staff at Taj Mahal Palace offer childcare, tour and concierge services. Hearty meals featuring Indian specialities are availabe at Masala Kraft. Other dining highlights include Golden Dragon Chinese restaurant, Mediterranean fare at Souk and Wasabi Japanese restaurant.

Deccan Odyssey – Deccan Odyssey

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.Echoing the penchant of the erstwhile Maharajas, all the 12 guest accommodation coaches of Deccan Odyssey is outfitted with cozy furniture and personalized guest amenities. Complemented by the very best of personal services, travelling on the private cabins of this deluxe rail is a unique rail tour experience in India. When you travel in these elegant class cabins of the train, you can feel that the inside décor reflects several moods to suit the outside views of the landscape. All the cabins are spacious enough where guests can roam freely. The decoration of each coach reflects a particular era of the Deccan milieu and is creatively outfitted with facilities like personal safe, telephone, attached bathroom, air-conditioning and a personal attendant on the round the clock service of the guests. The Deccan Odyssey has two multi-cuisine restaurants- Peshwa I & Peshwa II. The brilliantly decorated interiors of these restaurants add on more flavors to each gourmet dish served by the restaurant stewards in traditional Maharashtrian attire. The large selection of Indian, oriental and continental delicacies offer the travelers the freedom to choose their favorite one from the list. The fresh aroma of varied dishes welcome the guests to the restaurant cart of Deccan Odyssey. The relaxed ambience of the restaurants, the fragile hospitality of the stewards and the ever changing views of the outside world make the guests savor each bite of their food to its fullest extent.The onsite bar of Deccan Odyssey, Mumbai Hi, is the ultimate place to taste some of the best varieties of wines and spirits collected from all around the world. Along with that the bar also serves non-alcoholic beverages in a relaxing ambience. The decoration of the bar is simple yet elegant that exhausts the entire day fatigue of the excursion tours to different forts and palaces. Unwind and relax in Mumbai Hi of Deccan Odyssey with a fine glass of wine in your hand. The train also has a sitting lounge where guests can relax and chat with their fellow travelers while on the go. You can also pick up a book available in this lounge and take a deep plunge into the writings of the eminent authors.