The Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train project is a joint venture of the Ministry of Railway, Government of India and the State Government of Maharashtra. This luxury train takes you on an unforgettable 7-day sojourn through the erstwhile kingdom of the Mahrattas. The interiors showcase the history and culture of Maharashtra.

Starting from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) in India's financial capital, Mumbai, the first stop is Bhoke (Ratnagiri), home to the luscious haphus (Alphonso) mango, King of Fruit. Relax as we introduce you to the backwaters of Maharashtra - yes, Maharasthra had them too!

Next, it's on to Sindhu Nagari, to visit the Ocean Fort at Sindhudurg. Lunch at the Tarkali Beach Resort, where foreign luxury liners now make a regular stop.

Day Four is spent in Goa, that little bit of Portugal in India.

From there, it's on to Pune, the cultural capital of Maharashtra. Get a taste of Maharashtrian culture, culminating with the son et lumiere show at Shaniwarwada.

Day Six and Seven take in the World Heritage sites of Ajanta, Aurangabad and Ellora.

Return via the Sula Winery near Nasik. All along the way, every comfort is provided for within the train.

Facilities on board: channel music, intercom, cd/mp3 player, wall to wall carpeting, money exchange/credit cards facility, safety & security arrangements, health spa, bar, conference equipment.

THE PALACE ON WHEELS

7 Days / 6 Nights

Delhi - Jaipur - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Sawai Madhopur Chittaurgarh - Udaipur - Bharatpur and Agra

PALACE ON WHEELS ( EXPERIENCE ROYALTY FIRST HAND )

DAY 01 Wednesday - Reporting Time 1600 hrs, Depart 1745 hrs

    A warm welcome awaits you at the Delhi Cantonement Railway Station. Board train in the evening. Dinner on board.

DAY 02 Thursday - Jaipur Arrive 0005 hrs Depart 1730 hrs

    The first stop of the Palace-on-Wheels is Jaipur, one of the most well planned cities of the world of its time. This capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City, was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727 A.D.

DAY 03 Friday - Jaisalmer Arrive 0615 hrs, Depart 2330 hrs

    In the heart of the Thar desert lies Jaisalmer, founded by Rawal Jaisal, in 1156 A.D. Here the yellow sandstone fort is an imposing sight, towering magnificently over the city. Discover the painstakingly latticed havelis ar mansions with their grand facades. The Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli are fine examples of the stone carver's skill. Shop at Rajasthali-the only Rajasthan Govt. emporium, for fine pattu shawls, mirror work & embroidered articles, wooden boxes, trinkets, silverjewellery and curios. After lunch on board, go for an exciting camel ride on the sand dunes of Sam, before sipping a refreshing cup of tea. Enjoy the dinner and the cultural programmes at Jaisalmer. The train leaves for Jodhpur at night.

DAY 04 Saturday - Jodhpur Arrive 0800 hrs, Depart 1530 hrs

    Next morning the Palace-on-Wheels arrives in Jodhpur, a city ringed by a high stone wall with seven gates and several basttons This second largest city of Rajasthan, founded by Rao Jodha m 1459 A D. is known for its rock-solid Mehrangarh Fort. The grand palaces within-Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are impressive examples of architectural exceilence. Near the fort complex lies Jaswant Thada, and a group of royal cenotaphs rnade of white marble. While in Jodhpur shop for exquisite handcrafted articles including the famous breeches, embroidered shoes, metal curio, silverware, paintings and tie and dye fabrics. After lunch at Umaid Bhawan Palace, return to the Palace-on-Wheels. The train leaves for Sawai Madhopur.

DAY 05 Sunday - Sawai Madhopur Arrive 0400hrs, Depart 1100hrs

    One can almost sense a life of the wilderness, as the Palace-on- Wheels arrives in Sawai Madhopur, a city named after its founder Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. After breakfast a visit is arranged to the Ranthambhor National Park, wherein are located the ruins of a 10th century fort. This wildlife sanctuary is considered the country's best for observing and photographing the activities of the Tiger. The park, covering an area of 392 sq. kms. is home to more than 300 species of birds. The tiger, hyena, ratel, jackal and fox are among those constituting the carnivorous population here. Sawai Madhopur is known for its exclusive toys, ethnic ornaments and costumes. Upon return to the Palace-on-Wheels, you leave for Chittaurgarh, when one gets an opportunity to visit the Fort, land of legends, valour and chivalry. History has it that Bappa Rawal, the founder of the Sisodia dynasty, conquered Chittaur in the middle of the 8th centuryfrom the Maurya rulers. Lunch and dinner are served on board.

DAY 06 Monday - Udaipur Arrive 0730 hrs, Depart 2000 hrs

    Next morning you are in Udaipur. Lake City Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh of Mewar, after the Sisodia dynasty was driven away by the Mughals, in 1559 A.D. Perhaps the two most beautiful sites of Udaipur are the dream-like marble Palaces- the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) and the Jag Mandir, which appear to rise from the blue waters of Lake Pichhola.

DAY 07 Tuesday - Bharatpur Arive 0600 hrs, Depart 2300 hrs

    Early next morning, the Palace arrives in Bharatpur, the capital of Maharaja Suraj Mal. Pay a visit to the world famous bird sanctuary, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the nesting place for thousands of Egrets, Siberian Cranes, Migratory water fowl and other species of birds.

    After breakfast, arrive at Fatehpur Sikri, The red sandstone Mughal palacial complex. Within the enclosure is a mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and dedieated to Sheikh Salim Chishti, a muslim Sufi saint who blessed him with a son. After lunch move on from the Red Fort and arrive at the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. A pristine monument of undying love It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. Agra is known for its splendid marble inlay work like the Pietra dura work on the Taj, leather goods and jewellery. After dinner on board and a good night's sleep, arrive at Delhi Cantt at 0730 hrs the next morning and let the pleasant memories of the past week linger on your mind for a long, long time.

End Of The Journey

Train Departure Schedule:

Every Wednesday from Delhi Cantonrnent Railway Station

• Doctor on call at the next station
• Money exchange facility /credit cards
• Adeqpate safety and security arrangements
• Complimentary mineral water on board / in the coach during sightseeing / and at hotels
• Assistance for travel arrangaments on completion of the Tour
• Voltage available on the train 110/230 V

     The Royal Orient is one of the few extravaganzas left of an era of royalty and grandeur. Indulge in the luxury of this fascinating train, a spectacular concept of yesteryears style and luxury in these modern times.The original coach of Bhavnagar State built in 1929, a part of the entourage, has undergone many major modifications for the project. The saloon built for the Agent of the Governor General was originally painted completely in white and in the same pattern as the other coaches of the Viceregal train. The tour is eight whole action-packed days on wheels. Thirteen gold embossed saloon cars recreate the resplendent living times of yester years. Designed to transport you back in time. An experience of a life time.

Departure : Every Wednesday from September 2001 to April 2002

DAY 01: Wednesday - Delhi - Reporting Time 1345 hrs Depart 1500 hrs

The royal journey begins from Delhi every Wednesday evening. You can enjoy tea and dinner on board.

DAY 2: Thursday - CHITTAURGARH -Arrive 0530 hrs Depart 0900 hrs

    CHITTAURGARH Visit the sandstone city of Chittaurgarh. The formidable Chittaurgarh Fort whispers tales of heroic past. And then, the Royal Orient takes you on to the romantic city of Udaipur, as you savour your breakfast on board.

    UDAIPUR, built on the banks of Lake Pichola, boasts of two exquisitely built marble palaces that seem to float on water. The Jag Niwas is now the marvellous Lake Palace Hotel. We will take you on excursions to the City Palace, the Tripolia Gates, Sahelion-Ki-Bari and Shilpgram.

DAY 3: Friday Mehsana -Arrive 0645 hrs, Depart for Ahmedabad 1115 hrs Arrive 1245 hrs Depart for Sasan Gir 2015 hrs

    Mehsana The Temple of the Sun God - At Mehsana, you will see the Sun Temple at Modhera, built in 1026 AD by Bhimadeva of the Solanki Rajput clan. The temple is one of the two Sun Temples in the world - the other being at Konark. Famous for their Architecture and unique design, it is treat for the eyes.

Patan The Splendour of the Stepwells     Another example of the Solanki-period architecture can be seen at the Ran-ki-Vav stepwell at Patan, some distance from the town centre. Built in the 1050s and named after Rani Udamati, the stepwell is the oldest and perhaps the grandest among the more than 120 stepwells in Gujarat. No other vav in India is so profusely adorned as the Ranki-Vav. More than 800 sculptures form a remarkable backdrop to what was purely a functional structure.

Ahmedabad A Fusion of Old and New

    Ahmedabad means different things to different people. For architects it is a rich repository of magnificent styles-from the Indo-Saracenic to the 15th-century Muslim styles and from the experimental modern styles to the legendary Le Corbusier. Craft lovers discover in its streets and Byzantine lanes a treasure trove. For political scientists and social activists, it is the abode of Mahatma Gandhi. Some still like to view it as the "Manchester of the East " - it is the premier textile town of India.

But the traveller who finds his way to Ahmedabad, guided more by wanderlust than by any international travel guide, is rewarded with surprises. For, he discovers one of the most colourful and exciting destinations in India.

DAY 4: Saturday Sasangir - Arrive 0800 hrs Depart for Delwada 1115 hrs Arrive 1430 hrs Depart 2000 hrs

Sasangir - The Home to the Asiatic Lion

    It is not only one ofthe most important wild life sanctuaries in India, but also the only place in world outside Africa where Lions can be seen in the wild.The Gir Lion is a majestic animal measuring 2.75 metres in length is Truly the King Of The Gir Forest Reserve

Ahmedpur - Mandvi - The Nawab of Junagadh set up a haven for romance at Manvi, in a grove flankd by lush greenery, cooled by winds from the shores and serenaded by seagulls. The Nawabs and their Begums (wives) are history but their seaside pleasure palace, renovated and updated with modern amenities, is open to visitors.

    12 km from the resort lies a virgin beach. If is a safe area for swimming and there is a host of watersport facilities like scooters, skiing, surfirig, para-sailing and speedboat trips that are on offer here The beach is white and,firm, ideal for walks and with the seemingly unending, sands and shallow water, it is a great spot for a family holiday.

Diu - A Sun, Sand and Sea Getaway

    Across Ahmedpur Mandvi lies the island of Diu, a sensuous blend of sun, sand and deep blue sea. It is one of the country's finest beaches. Another cynosure at Diu is the Fort an imposing statement of power and ancient warcraft.

DAY 5: Sunday Palitana -Arrive 0745 hrs Depart for Ahmedabad 1200 hrs Arrive 1745 hrs Depart for Udaipur 2230 hrs

    PALITANA The next stop is Palitana, the place of victory. Palitana is one of India`s most picturesque pilgrim centres and 863 Jain temples - built in delicately carved marble, encrust the top of a hill. View the Gulf of Cambay and the city of Bhavnagar from up here.

    SARKHEJ View the palaces of Sarkhej. Have your dinner at the delightfully rustic Vishalla village and proceed to Ahmedabad by bus

DAY 6: Monday Ranakpur - Arrive 0745 hrs Depart 2000hrs

Ranakpur, An Excursion from Udaipur

    Located 96 km from Udaipur, Ranakpur is one of the five main holy places for Jains. Although over 500 years old, these temples are well preserved and are almost in perfect condition. Within the complex are other temples, though not as magnificent as the Chaumukha, enhancing the charm of this beautiful place. The musical chimes of the temple bells, the gentle breeze flowing through the carved corridors and the serenity of the surroundings tempts you to spend more relaxed moments here than you may have planned. Few places in Rajasthan can match the ambience of Ranakpur.

DAY 7: Tuesday Jaipur - Arrive 0750 hrs Depart 2155 hrs

    JAIPUR The last stop takes you back to Rajasthan. Jaipur, the state capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. Viewing the imposing Amber Fort, the Hawa Mahal, shopping for the riches of Jaipur and an elephant ride offer a fitting finale to a memorable journey.

DAY 8: Wednesday Delhi - Arrive0700 hrs

    Reach Delhi Cantonment next morning, taking back with you delightful memories of your epic voyage.

FACT FILE

Accommodation

1. Luxuriosly furnished Coupes.

2. Central Airconditioning.

3.Plush Carpeting.

4. Modern bathrooms with hot and cold running water.

5. Continental, Chinese and Indian Cuisine.

6. Soft Channel Music.

7. Movies.

8. A well stocked library.

9. Bar.

THE DARJEELING TOY TRAIN:

    Situated at an altitude of 2,127m is the lovely hill station of Darjeeling in West Bengal. World famous for the Darjeeling Tea and its Tea Gardens, This little town is home to the mountaneeering Institute and Tenzing Norquay, the first man on the Mt. Everest. The Observatory Hill at Darjeeling offers tourists a magnificent view of the

Kanchenjunga ranges. The views from the toy train are spectacular as it inches forward from New Jalpaiguri to reach Darjeeling, a distance of 85 km and after a seven-and-a-half-hour ride.The breathtaking landscape must be seen to be believed, the Himalayas in all their glory, Clean crisp mountain air, blooming flowers, lush green tea estates.... The narrowest of the regular narrow gauges (just 2 ft!) the Darjeeling Hill Railway is indeed a "toy train" and the most famous of the little trains.

How to reach Jalpaiguri :

    New Jalpaiguri (75 kms from Darjeeling) has direct rail connections with Bangalore, Calcutta, Guwahati, Kochi, Mumbai, New Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram and other places in India.

THE NILGIRI MOUNTAIN TRAIN :

    The "Queen of Indian Hill Stations" - Udhagamandlam (Ooty) nestles among the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. Set at 2600m above sea level Ooty enjoys a cool, pleasant climate all year round. The Nilgiri MountainTrain is a great way to reach this hill station. This delightful little train starts from the town of

Mettupalayam, and covers the 46 kms to Ooty in four and a half hours, at a maximum speed of 33 kms per hour. The train ride is breat taking. Twisting, turning, passing through 16 tunnels, breaking out into bright sunlight, moving across tall girder bridges, passing through forest-clad hills, moving gently along the tea plantations.... Its a journey unforgettable.

How to reach Mettupalayam :

    While Mettupalayam is connected to Ooty with a meter gauge line, it also serves as the main railhead for mainline trains. The Nilgiri Express connects Mettupalayam with Chennai everyday and Coimbatore, 90 kms away, is linked by rail to most major cities and towns.

THE SHIMLA TOY TRAIN :

    The former 'summer capital' of British India, Shimla is the present-day state capital of Himachal Pradesh, offering tourists breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. Snow-capped mountains, coniferous forests, exotic fruits, flowers and a wonderful opportunity to rest and relax. As the toy train from Kalka winds it way up slowly and steadily it takes you through 107 tunnels, arched bridges and several

picturesque stations like Dharampur, Solan, Taksal and Tara Devi. The six hour, 96-km journey from Kalka to Shimla is breathtaking indeed.

How to reach Kalka:

    Major trains to Kalka include the Howrah - Kalka Mail and the Delhi - Kalka Himalayan Queen and Shatabdi Express. Besides these daily train services, Kalka is also connected by rail to other important towns and cities.

THE MATHERAN TOY TRAIN :

    A quiet and peaceful hill resort, Matheran is close to Mumbai, in Maharashtra, which is out of bounds for vehicular traffic all through the year. Enjoy the scenic beauty that unfold as you travel uphill. Breathe in the fresh, unpolluted mountain air, feast your eyes on the serene beauty

all around you, see the birds of paradise, feast on exotic fruits. The journey from Neral to Matheran takes about an hour and a half. The toy train runs between sunrise and sunset.

How to reach Neral

    Neral, on the Mumbai - Pune line is easily accessible by Mumbai's local trains. Any Pune bound train will take you to Neral in about two hours.

To explore the lenght and breadth of India, a special pass has been provided for foreign nationals and for Indians residing abroad ans is payable in foreign exchange. This pass is available for a specified period of time varying from 1/2 day to 90 days. It should be used within one year from the date of issue.

Priority in seat confimation is given to passengers holding this pass.

The cost varies as per details given below: