Begin your first full day with a buffet breakfast, then meet your friendly English-speaking guide ready to tour Old and New Delhi.
Your introduction to Indian life will begin as all Indian tours should – on a rickshaw amid the hustle and bustle of this heaving capital. Your first stop will be one of the largest congregational buildings in India: the 375-year-old Jama Mosque. This massive sandstone building of Mughal architecture has a capacity of 25,000 worshippers.
Later in the morning, get another sense of Delhi’s history as you pass by the imposing 17th-century Red Fort where the fifth Moghul Emperor, Shah Jahan, made Delhi a home. Then visit Raj Ghat, where famed leader Mahatma Gandhiwas cremated.
After lunch, visit Humayun’s tomb – a 66-acre complex which predates the Taj Mahal – before driving past India Gate, Parliament House and President House. Countine to the tallest masonry tower in India, Qutub Minar. At 72.5 metres tall, this spectacle was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and cultural significance.
Return to your hotel in time for dinner at your leisure.
Dine at the decadent Pickwick at The Claridges for a refreshing breakfast this morning, then spend some time at leisure before transferring to Safdarjung Railway Station this afternoon for your decadent rail adventure.
After a traditional Indian welcome and a refreshing welcome drink, you’ll board the Deccan Odyssey train and get acquainted with your Deluxe Cabin. This renowned locomotive hosts luxurious cabins along with dedicated spa, gym and bar cars. Your journey begins in full as you settle in for a hearty dinner, watching the city fall away on your overnight path to Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal.
Travel time: Train – overnight (230km)
Presidential Suite Upgrade: Enjoy extra comfort in this spacious suite with a queen double bed, separate living area and personal butler service. The Presidential Suite Upgrade is available on request only and subject to availability. Please contact out dedicated Tours Concierge team to confirm availability prior to booking at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
Heritage Odyssey rail journey
Wake with a filling breakfast before pulling into glorious Agra. Step out to experience the unparalleled wonder of the Taj Mahal, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed masterpiece of architecture.
This mausoleum’s unmistakable ivory-white dome and freestanding minarets have become recognisable the world over. Cast your eyes upwards and contemplate this architectural marvel, then look down to witness its perfect mirror in the still waters of the famous reflecting pool.
Explore this magnificent structure, built under the rule of Shah Jahan as a testament to his love for his favourite queen, Mumtaz Mahal. Constructed entirely out of white marble, this monument took an incredible 20,000 craftsmen to build.
Peel your eyes away from this mesmerising sight and turn your attention next to the intricate patterns of the Itimad-ud-Daulah and the elaborate Mughal citadel of Agra Fort. Discover the intricate art of marble inlay work at Kala Kriti, witnessing the ancient Pietra Dura technique that adorns the Taj Mahal itself.
This evening, savour a decadent dinner on board and settle in for a restful sleep in your picture-perfect cabin.
Travel time: Train – overnight (230km)
Wake to the wilderness as you arrive in Ranthambore, one of India’s premier wildlife destinations. Embark on an early morning safari through Ranthambore National Park, searching for the elusive Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. This former hunting ground of the Maharajas now protects a diverse ecosystem where tigers, leopards and over 270 bird species thrive.
Return to the comfort of your train for lunch as the Deccan Odyssey departs for Udaipur, the jewel of Rajasthan.
Travel time: Train – overnight (490km)
Awaken to the verdant landscapes of the Aravali Hills as you slow to a halt in Udaipur. Known as the ‘City of Lakes’ for its tranquil waterways, Udaipur is home to some of India’s most picturesque palaces, telling of this romantic city’s rich history.
After an energising breakfast, head to the City Palace for a tour of its flamboyant complex, admiring its fretted balconies and scalloped arches. Constructed in the 16th century, this gargantuan fortress exhibits varied architectural styles and houses a showstopping collection of artworks from the Mewar School within its museum. Its crown jewel is undoubtedly the jaw-dropping Crystal Gallery – displaying one of the world’s largest private collections of crystal, from chandeliers to chairs to beds.
Join a scenic cruise across picturesque Lake Pichola, then sit down for lunch at an exquisite local restaurant. This afternoon, take a guided walk through the idyllic streets of the Old City and visit the bustling local markets, perusing the trinkets of Bapu Bazaar and rainbow textiles of Bada Bazaar.
Later, jump back on the Deccan Odyssey for another evening of riding the railway in style.
Travel time: Train – overnight (520km)
Discover Jodhpur, the magnificent Blue City, where countless indigo-painted houses cascade beneath the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. This architectural marvel, perched 400 feet above the city, houses one of India’s finest collections of palanquins, arms, costumes and paintings.
After returning to the train for lunch, venture into the bustling Old Clock Tower market. Navigate the maze of narrow lanes past storied havelis and traditional houses, experiencing the authentic rhythm of Rajasthani life.
As evening falls, return to the comfort of the Deccan Odyssey for your journey to the golden city of Jaisalmer.
Travel time: Train – overnight (350km)
Enter the heart of the Thar Desert as you arrive in Jaisalmer, the legendary Golden City founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 BCE. This remarkable city emerges from the desert like a golden mirage, its honey-coloured sandstone architecture glowing in the sun.
Explore spectacular Jaisalmer Fort, one of the world’s largest fully-preserved fortified cities, and visit the exquisite Nathmal Ki Haveli with its intricate stone carvings. After lunch aboard your train, venture into the desert for sundowners amongst the rolling dunes, where the vast Thar Desert stretches towards the horizon.
Return to the Deccan Odyssey as it departs for the Pink City of Jaipur.
Travel time: Train – overnight (700km)
Arrive in Jaipur, Rajasthan’s vibrant capital, surrounded by the rugged Aravalli Hills crowned with magnificent forts. Begin your exploration with the spectacular Amber Fort, a masterpiece of Rajput architecture that overlooks Maota Lake from its hilltop perch.
After lunch at a city hotel, visit the opulent City Palace, still home to Jaipur’s royal family, before driving past the iconic Hawa Mahal – the Palace of Winds – with its distinctive pink facade and intricate lattice windows designed for royal ladies to observe street life whilst remaining unseen.
Return to the Deccan Odyssey for your final evening aboard this magnificent train as it makes its way back to Delhi.
Travel time: Train – overnight (400km)
Your extraordinary rail journey concludes as you disembark at Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station. Bid farewell to the Deccan Odyssey and your fellow travellers as you transfer to The Claridges for a final night in India’s capital.
Spend your day at leisure, perhaps exploring Delhi’s markets for last-minute treasures or simply relaxing after your adventure through the heart of India.
Savour one last breakfast and bid farewell to enchanting India as you transfer back to the airport. While you may have reached the end of the line for your Indian expedition, this is one adventure you’re sure to remember long after the train has left the station.
Travel time: Driving – 30 minutes