Darjeeling Mail

Day 1: Saturday Mumbai

Your journey aboard the luxurious Deccan Odyssey begins in the bustling city of Mumbai. Assemble at the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, where you’ll be warmly welcomed with traditional rituals, a refreshing drink, and a grand ceremonial send-off.

After completing the check-in formalities, step aboard your regal coach and settle into the opulence of your cabin. As the train gently rolls out of Mumbai at 16:40 hrs, your magical journey through India’s royal past and spiritual soul begins.

Enjoy a leisurely evening on board as the Deccan Odyssey heads towards Vadodara, the erstwhile capital of the Gaekwad dynasty. Indulge in a gourmet dinner and soak in the majestic ambiance of your mobile palace.

Overnight: Deccan Odyssey

Day 2: Sunday Vadodara

This morning, the Deccan Odyssey rolls into Vadodara, the royal city of the Gaekwad dynasty, located on the banks of the Vishwamitri River in Gujarat. After a leisurely breakfast on board, prepare to explore this vibrant city steeped in royal heritage and architectural brilliance.

Your first excursion takes you to the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient city, dotted with forts, palaces, temples, and mosques, is a hidden gem showcasing a perfect blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture. One of the highlights is the stunning Jami Masjid, built in the 15th century and renowned for its intricate stonework and towering minarets.

Return to the train for a sumptuous lunch before heading out again to visit the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, located within the Laxmi Vilas Palace compound. The museum displays an extraordinary collection of paintings by European and Indian artists, sculptures, and royal memorabilia, reflecting the opulent lifestyle of the Gaekwads.

In the evening, enjoy high tea in the royal gardens with a cultural performance that brings the city’s vibrant traditions to life.

By 20:00 hrs, the Deccan Odyssey departs Vadodara and continues its royal journey towards Udaipur, the city of lakes.

Overnight: Deccan Odyssey

Day 3: Monday Udaipur

Wake up to the enchanting landscapes of Udaipur, the romantic "City of Lakes", nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan. Once the capital of the Mewar kingdom, Udaipur is famed for its majestic palaces, serene lakes, and royal charm.

After breakfast on board, set out to explore the City Palace, an impressive complex of courtyards, balconies, and towers that offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Pichola. The palace, with its ornate interiors and royal artifacts, is a tribute to the grandeur of the Rajputana era.

Continue your visit to the Crystal Gallery, housed in the Fateh Prakash Palace. This remarkable gallery showcases a dazzling collection of rare crystal items — from furniture to decorative pieces — ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the 19th century.

Later, enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Lake Pichola, offering breathtaking views of the Jag Mandir and Lake Palace, seemingly floating over the shimmering waters.

In the late afternoon, you may opt for a leisurely walk through the Old City, known for its quaint shops, local crafts, miniature paintings, and vibrant atmosphere — a perfect opportunity to soak in the cultural spirit of Udaipur.

As night falls, return to the comforts of the Deccan Odyssey. The train departs Udaipur at 21:30 hrs, heading toward the wilderness of Sawai Madhopur.

Overnight: Deccan Odyssey

Day 4: Tuesday Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore)

This morning, the Deccan Odyssey arrives at Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to the famous Ranthambore National Park — once the private hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur and now one of India’s premier tiger reserves.

Begin your day with a village safari in open-air Canters, offering a glimpse into the rustic charm of Rajasthan’s countryside. Interact with locals, witness traditional lifestyles, and explore mud homes, ancient wells, and local farms surrounded by the Aravallis.

Later, return to the train for lunch and some rest.

In the afternoon, prepare for an exciting Jungle Safari through Ranthambore National Park. Traverse deep into the dense forests and open meadows, where you may encounter the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, as well as leopards, marsh crocodiles, sloth bears, and a variety of birdlife. The experience is enhanced by the ruins of the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, looming in the background — a silent reminder of royal pasts.

As the sun sets over the wild landscape, return to the Deccan Odyssey, where high tea awaits.

By 19:30 hrs, the train departs Sawai Madhopur and rolls on toward the royal capital of Jaipur.

Overnight: Deccan Odyssey

Day 5: Wednesday Jaipur

Today, the Deccan Odyssey reaches Jaipur, the magnificent Pink City of Rajasthan, known for its vibrant culture, majestic architecture, and royal legacy.

After breakfast, disembark to explore the grandeur of this historic city. Your guided tour begins with a visit to one of Jaipur’s iconic landmarks — possibly the Amber Fort, perched high on a hill and famed for its artistic Hindu architecture, mirror work, and sweeping views of the Aravalli hills. Wander through grand courtyards, richly decorated halls, and the beautiful Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors).

Later, enjoy a panoramic drive past the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and visit the City Palace, a royal residence showcasing a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, with museums that house royal costumes, weaponry, and artifacts.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the colourful bazaars of Jaipur — a paradise for shoppers and culture lovers. Browse exquisite handicrafts, gemstones, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani attire in the lively market lanes.

Savor a traditional Rajasthani lunch at a city hotel, or return to the train to relax and refresh.

In the evening, reboard the Deccan Odyssey for dinner as the train departs Jaipur at 21:30 hrs, journeying toward the legendary city of Agra.

Overnight: Deccan Odyssey

Day 6: Thursday Agra

Today, the Deccan Odyssey arrives in the city of timeless romance — Agra, home to some of the finest monuments of the Mughal era and a shining jewel in India's heritage crown.

Begin your day with a visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This marble masterpiece, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is a symphony of symmetry, love, and intricate craftsmanship. Witness the iconic monument’s ethereal beauty as it glows under the morning light.

Next, proceed to explore Itmad-ud-Daulah, often called the ‘Baby Taj’. This exquisite mausoleum, built entirely of white marble and inlaid with semi-precious stones, showcases the early Mughal style that would later culminate in the Taj Mahal.

Later, visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a formidable Mughal fortress that housed emperors and nobles. Walk through its palaces, audience halls, and courtyards while learning about the rich history that unfolded within its walls.

Before returning to the train, enjoy a brief shopping experience — Agra is renowned for its fine marble inlay work, leather goods, carpets, and handicrafts. A perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Mughal artistry.

By 18:00 hrs, the Deccan Odyssey departs Agra and heads toward the spiritual heart of India — Varanasi.

Overnight: Deccan Odyssey

Day 7: Friday Varanasi

Today, the Deccan Odyssey reaches Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India and the oldest living city in the world. Revered for its ancient traditions, sacred temples, and divine energy, Varanasi offers a soul-stirring experience unlike any other.

After breakfast, disembark to explore the temples and ghats that line the western bank of the holy River Ganges. Visit notable temples such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (from outside, due to security restrictions) and Durga Temple, soaking in the deep spiritual significance that pulses through the city’s every corner.

Wander through the Ghat area, where pilgrims perform sacred rituals and locals go about their daily lives. Witness the beautiful chaos of Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most vibrant riverfronts in Varanasi.

Later, explore the lively bazaars, a fascinating maze of narrow lanes bustling with vendors selling silk saris, handicrafts, brassware, and street food — a perfect place to experience the city’s cultural heartbeat.

In the evening, embark on a boat ride on the Ganges, where you’ll witness the Ganga Aarti, an unforgettable spiritual ceremony with chanting priests, flaming lamps, and ringing bells — a divine spectacle that captures the city’s eternal soul.

After this enriching experience, return to the Deccan Odyssey. The train departs Varanasi at 20:30 hrs, heading toward its final destination — New Jalpaiguri, the gateway to Darjeeling and the Eastern Himalayas.

Overnight: Deccan Odyssey

Day 8: Saturday New Jalpaiguri

This morning, the Deccan Odyssey arrives at New Jalpaiguri, the gateway to Darjeeling and the serene Eastern Himalayas. As your magnificent 8-day journey comes to an end, reflect on the unforgettable memories created — from regal palaces and wild jungles to sacred ghats and architectural wonders.

Bid farewell to the Deccan Odyssey and its gracious crew as you disembark with your heart full of stories, sights, and soulful experiences from across India.

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