Our Trips - The Deccan Odyssey

India's newest Luxury Train - Also known as the Palace On Wheels of Maharashtra

Travel through time and cultures through the kingdom of the Marathas - Maharashtra. Taking in the heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora, the handicraft village of Shilpa Gram, the Sula Winery at Nashik, the bustling cities of Mumbai and Pune, and more. Savour the cuisines, worship at the shrines, or just relax and let the beauty wash over you

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME AND SEE THE PRESENT MEET THE PAST

As the wind whispers through the halo of legends crowning the land of the mighty Marathas, a lone majestic whistle blows its salutation of honor as it gracefully traverses this land of fantastic fantasy. Welcome to the mesmerizing Maharashtra experience aboard THE DECCAN ODYSSEY.

If Europe is all-hearts for the Orient Express and Rajasthan is graced by the royal Palace on Wheels, Maharasthra echoes majestically with the Deccan Odyssey. A train journey adorned in luxury, the Deccan Odyssey transports its guests on an unforgettable sojourn of a land shining in legions grandeur - serene beaches, magnificent forts & palaces, and experiencing heavenly tales etched in colossal rocks.

Board the Deccan Odyssey at Mumbai, India's commercial capital and chug off to Ganapatipule, one of the finest beaches on the coast. On to Sindhudurg, the Ocean Fort of the Marathas, guarding the port of Malvan. Visit Tarkali, a beautiful village by the Arabian Sea. Continue to Goa, one of India's most popular beach holiday spots. Travel to Pune the erstwhile capital of the Marathas and to Aurangabad, home of the famous caves of Ajanta and Ellora (a World Heritage Site) before returning to Mumbai.

Day Itinerary

01 Mumbai
WED The time has come for you to undertake a journey way back in time. Welcome to Mumbai, a city of dreams that 300 years ago was an agglomeration of seven islands. Modern, yet preserving its antiquities, a short drive through the city will reveal this inherent truth. Board the train in the evening at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, undoubtedly one of the famous Gothic buildings and an integral part of Mumbai's skyline. Wine and dine in the luxurious comforts of this train and whistle off on your royal voyage.

02 Jaigadh, Ganapatipule, Ratnagiri and Bhatye Beach
THU Alight in the morning at the Bhoke Station nestled amidst majestic mountains and scenic backwaters. Enjoy the short ride in a luxury bus to Rai Jetty. Cut through the mesmerising silence of the scenic backwater accompanied by an impressive number of exotic birds on the way to the historical Jaigad Fort. Relish an almost unique view of Konkan village life, impossible to get either from road or the rail. This romantic journey brings you to Jaigad Jetty, situated at the foothills of the Jaigad Fort. And at a short distance stands the legendary Jaigad Fort, high and proud on a cliff with a spectacular view of the ocean and Ganapatipule, the next destination.

After Jaigad Fort, it's time to travel to Ganapatipule by road, an experience by itself. The vast 'Konkan' stretch abounds with scenic greenery, red earth and the roofed houses with clean courtyards add a quaint touch to the panorama.

Ganapatipule is bathed in the golden sunshine and silver moonlight, lapped by gentle foam-flecked waves from the expanse of the Arabian Sea. It's laced with the unforgettable aroma of fruits, flowers and mangroves. And the timid whispers of swaying coconut trees carry you away into a land, that's serene, sedate and unspoilt.

Feast your taste buds over a vast spread of 'Konkan' cuisine and spend some time in the company of the locals, who are as warm and cheerful as their surroundings. Ever ready to chat with you and make you feel at home. Visit the holy temple shrine dedicated to Lord

03 Sindhurdurg, Tarkaarli, Sawantwadi
FRI Next day the train chugs in to the tip of the Konkan coast, Sindhudurg Nagari Railway station. A luxury AC bus transfers you to Malvan Jetty from the station. Settle in a comfortable boat, arranged just for you, and enjoy the mesmerising view of flora, birds and caressing waves on the ride to Sindhudurg Fort.

Next stop the one time naval base, stubbornly guarded, till today by the unconquered Ocean Fort of Sindhudurg. As you approach the fort from Malvan jetty past a rocky reef, marvel at the hard work of over 6000 skilled hands that worked round the clock for 3 years. Within its premises are temples dedicated to Bhavani, Mahadeo, Jarimari, Mahapurush and Shivaji. Walk on the two-mile long rampart walls and watch the breathtaking view of the vast open sea as it fires a volley of spray 30 ft. below. And at times even 30 feet high, an amazing experience indeed.

Head out to Tarkarli by luxury AC bus. A virgin beach at the confluence of river Karli and Arabian Sea with silver soft sands and pristine clear waters. The wide river, the beautiful sailboats, the tiny islands, the hamlets at the river bank, all contribute to the picture-postcard beauty of Tarkarli. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the well-appointed MTDC beach resort, complete with twenty 'Konkani' style cottages. Indeed a perfect place to enjoy the mouth-watering 'Malvani' cuisine and then unwind.

Next stop, Tarkarli Jetty, for a romantic boat ride through the Tarkarli creek up to Kalse Jetty. Move on to Sawantwadi by AC luxury bus, situated on the southernmost point of Sindhudurg. This elite heritage destination is the entry point to Goa. The colourful town, once an estate capital, is home to the Chitar Ali and Jagannathrao Bhosale Garden. Shilpa Gram is yet another place you must visit. A craft village, where you can watch local craftsmen manufacturing handicrafts and what's more, you can buy some mementos too.

The evening promises a traditional meal in the train. As the train heads to Goa from Sawantwadi, you will leave behind this coastal paradise rich in history and natural splendour.

04 Goa
SAT As the train pulls in to Goa, get ready to explore an exotic destination frequented by tourists from all corners of the globe. Brilliant lush green fields surrounding village and hamlets, white washed churches standing out against occasional empty patches of startling red soil. Welcome to Goa, the land of India's finest golden sand beaches, jungle clad hills, imposing ancient churches and elegant mansions, splashed with colour of bougainvillea. Goa is indeed a great collage of sights, experiences and history.

Once in Goa, you can start off with Old Goa. Take a walk amid the ruins, ramble in the vast gardens and grounds of the old church buildings. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assissi, that began as a mosque but now is an archaeological museum for Goan antiques. It's time for an afternoon laced with heady traditional music, dance and finger licking Goan delicacies. Visit Fontanhas, the Latin quarters at Panjim, the capital of Goa State. Next stop is Dona Paula, a small palm fringed beach with casuarina groves and tranquility.

The day has ended, but in Goa, it is just the beginning. Non stop fun, virgin beaches, ancient sites and caves, religious icons and shrines are set deep in your mind as you head back to the Karmali station. Wine and dine on board the royal train. It's true, no matter how much time you have in Goa, it will always seem too little.

05 Pune
SUN Next morning, the royal train pulls into Pune, the erstwhile capital of Maratha. Also known as the cultural capital of the state, it is hometown of famous poets, writers, singers and artists. After a royal breakfast in the train, step out to discover this early home of Shivaji, the great Maratha warrior.

First stop is Phule Mandai, the old central market, named after the great social reformer Mahatma Jotirao Phule. It consists of a large octagonal central tower with Gothic features and arms radiating from it. A reminder of the days gone by. Move on to the Raja Kelkar Museum, a quaint Rajasthani-styled building with an interesting personal collection of artifacts and antiques belonging to the 17th, 18th and the 19th century. Next is the World famous Iyengar Yoga Institute. Directed by Mr. B.K.S. Iyengar, it is an institute of international reputation. People come here from all over the world with hopes and rarely ever go back disappointed.

After a quick lunch break at Taj Blue Diamond, it is time to move on to the world famous Rajneesh Ashram. Commonly known as Osho Ashram, the lushly landscaped 24-acre commune offers numerous programmes with an emphasis on meditation. Thousands alight here every day in search of spiritual meanings. Next stop is the Tribal Museum with an impressive collection of nearly 2000 rare and precious articles related to the tribal life of Maharashtra. The 12 sections include domestic life, agriculture, weapons and woodcarving.

Move on to the David Synagogue, believed to be one of the largest in the world. Built by a Jewish merchant, Sir David Sassoon in 1867, it is one of the finest synagogues in India.

Now, the luxury bus takes you to the Aga Khan Palace. A historical monument where Mahatma Gandhi and his wife were imprisoned along with other national leaders after he started the Quit India movement. Listen to the magic of hymns and devotional songs presented by a small group of artistes near the memorial of Smt. Kasturba Gandhi.

Before you realise it, the day has ended. And it's time for the famous light and sound show at the Shaniwarwada Palace, built in 1732 by the Peshwas.

Traditional 'tutari', 'sanai', 'chaughada', garlands and 'kumkum tilak' welcome you at the entrance. While the daring story of the erstwhile Maratha Empire enacted by light and sound capture your imagination inside.

After a sumptuous meal on board the royal train, your next destination is the 6th century.


06 Aurangabad, Ellora
MON 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 defense 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 30 kms. 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 Kailasanatha Temple (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 Taj Mahal, 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.

07 Jalgaon, Ajanta, Nashik
TUE Alight at Jalgaon railway station after a royal breakfast. Travel to T-Junction in a luxury AC bus. Board the MSRTC eco-friendly bus and it's time to travel back in time. Soon, you will find yourself surrounded by dramatic views of the Waghora valley where the Ajanta Caves are located. Older than the Ellora caves (200 BC to 650 AD) they are also cut from the volcanic lava of the Deccan Trap in a steep crescent shaped hillside. Lost to the world after the 7th century it was discovered by accident in 1819, by a party of British officers on a hunting expedition.

At Ajanta, the Mahayana group, Hinayana group and the later Mahayana group, complete the spectrum of Buddhist development in India. 'Bodhisattva Padmapani', 'Boddhisattva Avalokitesvara', '17 Jatakas', 'The Birth of the Buddha' and 'The Thousand Buddhas' are amongst the finest murals and sculptures ever found. The paintings on the ceiling, particularly the elephant scattering the lotus, charging bull, the black princess and the row of dancers with musicians mesmerise tourists from all over the world.

After a quick shopping break for artifacts and souvenirs, back track to Bhusalwal Station in the same luxury AC bus. Travel along to Nashik in the royal comforts of the train while the magnificent images of the ancient caves linger on in your mind. Enjoy the mouth-watering spread on board of the royal train.

Alight at Nashik Road station with a traditional welcome of garlands, 'arti' and 'kumkum tilak'. Depart for Sula Winery at Govardhan Park in the comforts of a luxury AC bus, enjoying the view of a bustling township that's an interesting blend of the ancient and the modern.

Stop on the way at the grape farms of the Winery. Walk through the green paradise as rows and rows of grape meet your eye in every direction. After watching the breathtaking view from the Gangapur dam site move on to the Sula Winery. The air, heavy with the heady aroma of wine, welcomes you to the Winery. Wine and dine in royal comfort as the sun sets in the horizon. Finally, when you head back to the Nashik Road Station, it's time for the Deccan Odyssey train to move from the past to the future. Get ready to alight at the most advanced business capital of India, Mumbai.

08 Mumbai
WED Enjoy the breakfast on board as the sun rises over the commercial capital of India. Alight at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai in the morning enriched with the rich legacy of this land. The royal journey is over, but the memory of which, will live on forever.
 

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