Indian Sojourn

Today, the Deccan Odyssey arrives to its first destination, Vadodara. Once the seat of the Gaekwad rulers, one of Gujarat's most important cities has lots of treasures to be explored. After you are full on the delicious platter of breakfast, embark from the train for sightseeing. The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. The only Islamic pre-Mughal city that remains unchanged comprises of water installations, religious buildings, palaces, agricultural structures, palaces and more. Later, get back the luxury train for a sumptuous lunch.

After a hearty meal, visit Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum. The magnificent structured building is known for its fine collection of sculptures, paintings and more. Enjoy hi-tea at the wonderful Laxmi Vilas Palace, the current residence of the royal family of Vadodara. Enjoy a platter of delectable dishes accompanied by special folk performances.

Back aboard Deccan Odyssey for an overnight stay. The train continues its journey towards Udaipur.

In the morning, the Deccan Odyssey arrives into the City of Lake, Udaipur. It is popular for being one of the most romantic cities of India. Relish breakfast on-board while admiring the lovely views of the Aravali ranges. Breakfast is followed by sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Start the tour with the City Palace complex built by Maharana Udai Singh II on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola almost 400 years ago. Next, enjoy a scenic boat ride on the placid waters of the Lake. Back aboard the train for lunch.

Later, proceed for a walking tour of Old Udaipur. The old city is known for exciting shopping pleasures. Get on your hands on some great stuff such as puppets, clothe lanterns, jewellery, wooden boxes, and other handicraft items. Get back to the train for dinner and overnight stay. The train moves to its next stop.

Today, Indian Sojourn brings you to the Sun City of Rajasthan, Jodhpur. The former capital of the Marwar kingdom, the Blue City houses some amazing temples, forts and palaces. Begin the day with a sumptuous breakfast aboard. The day is at leisure and you have options to pick from, either visit a luxury hotel for a relaxing spa session or you can visit the Bishnoi tribal village along with potter and weavers villages.

Lunch on-board the luxury train, followed by a city tour. Explore the massive Mehrangarh Fort, towering over the rugged landscape. One of country's largest forts, the 15th century fort built by Rao Jodha, on a 150 m high hill is truly one impressive. The fort houses a museum that has interesting displays of royal palanquins, armoury, paintings, costumes, personal belongings of the royalty and more. The colourful Turban Gallery is a splendid sight to enjoy. Get to the roads where the real pleasure lies. Walk past the Old Clock Tower market and extremely striking havelis.

Dinner is a special occasion. Lip-smacking Marwar barbeque delicacies are arranged so that you can savour in the royal courtyard the Mehrangarh Fort.

Back to the train for overnight stay as the train continues its journey towards the next destination, the Mughal City of Agra.

Early in the morning arrive to the 'City of Taj' Agra. The former seat of Mughal Empire is home to some of the most magnificent architectural gems. Begin the day with a leisurely breakfast, after which proceed for a visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Built as the epitome of love by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this white marble mausoleum took 22 years to get completed and is festooned with precious and semi-precious stones.

Lunch is organized at a City Hotel. Next, visit the Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb, nicknamed as the 'Baby Taj'. Marvel at the exquisite latticework adorning the monument. Next, explore the massive Agra Fort. The Mughal architectural gem has some parts in red sandstone and other in white marble. The fort also has a number structures within its boundaries.

After sightseeing, there are numerous options to choose from. Either opt for a relaxing spa session at a popular city hotel or visit the local markets of Agra.

Return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner and overnight stay.

On the 6th day of the rail tour, the train chugs into its next destination, Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. Deboard to travel to the popular for the Ranthambore National Park. The former game sanctuary has now become one of the largest national parks in the northern part of the country.

An early breakfast is followed by a wildlife safari inside the national park. Along with the royal Bengal Tigers, spot other species such as Chinkara, Nilgai, Sambhar, Sloth Bear, Chital and more. Around 272 species of species of resident as well as migratory birds call this national park their home.

Back on-board the train for a lavish lunch. Embark on a village safari interacting with the turban-wearing men and colourful ghagra-choli wearing women. Interact with the locals. Afterwards, savour high-tea at a popular hunting lodge of the royal family of the region. Late evening, back aboard the train for dinner and overnight stay.

On the 7th day of the tour, the train arrives to the capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur, known for its vibrancy and splendour. Post-breakfast, disembark for a visit to the mighty Amer fort (Amber fort). The 16th century fort is a marvel of architecture and a treasure of souvenirs.

On the way to the Amer Fort, halt to explore Hawa Mahal, also known as Palace of Winds. This pink sandstone structure is known for its distinct honey cobweb-like construction. The next attraction is, the City Palace. The beautiful complex is known for its carved doorways, gardens, beautiful palaces, courtyards and a museum with a fine collection.

Walk past the UNESCO World Site, Jantar Mantar. The astronomical observatory was built by Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. Enjoy a sumptuous traditional lunch in a city hotel. The rest of the day has optional tours. You can either relax your senses by a spa session or you can visit the bustling and vibrant local markets of Jaipur to get your hands on colourful handicrafts, traditional clothes, bangles, imitation jewellery and more.

In the evening, back to the train for an overnight stay.

Indian Sojourn ends today with your return to Delhi. After an early morning breakfast, disembark from the train at the Delhi Cantt Railway Station.