The Deccan Odyssey is India's distinguished luxury train, carrying just 80 guests through the country's most celebrated destinations — from the royal forts of Rajasthan to the sacred ghats of Varanasi and the foothills of the Himalayas. Operated by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, its 21 elegantly appointed carriages blend the romance of a maharaja era with thoroughly modern comforts: a spa car, gourmet dining, Presidential Suites, and a crew of over 30 dedicated to personal service. Whether you seek UNESCO World Heritage monuments, tiger reserves, or Himalayan tea gardens, the Deccan Odyssey offers an immersive and unhurried way to experience the soul of India.
At a Glance
| Region | Asia · India |
| Countries | India |
| Journey length | 13–14 nights |
| Itineraries | Indian Sojourn Journey (with Darjeeling); Heritage Odyssey (with Pre-Shimla); Cultural Odyssey (with Pre-Shimla) |
| Upcoming departures | 46 dates, Sep 2026 – Dec 2027 · view dates → |
| Reservations | 1-800-724-5120 · travel@palacetours.com |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Deccan Odyssey and where does it travel?+
The Deccan Odyssey is India's premier luxury train, operated by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. It travels through some of India's most iconic regions, including Rajasthan's royal cities, North India's imperial heartland, the sacred city of Varanasi, UNESCO sites such as Khajuraho and the Taj Mahal, wildlife reserves like Ranthambore, and — depending on the itinerary — the Himalayan foothills around Darjeeling or the colonial hill station of Shimla.
What journeys and itineraries are available, and how long are they?+
Three signature journeys are offered. The Indian Sojourn Journey (with Darjeeling) runs 13 nights / 14 days from Mumbai to New Delhi, combining Rajasthan and North India with a scenic stay among Darjeeling's tea plantations. The Heritage Odyssey (with Pre-Shimla) is 14 nights / 15 days, departing and returning to New Delhi via Shimla, with seven nights aboard the train through Agra, Ranthambore, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Jaipur. The Cultural Odyssey (with Pre-Shimla) is also 14 nights / 15 days and adds Varanasi, Khajuraho, Orchha and Gwalior to a Rajasthan route — ideal for travellers drawn to sacred sites and World Heritage monuments.
How much does a Deccan Odyssey journey cost?+
Pricing is currently listed as to be confirmed and varies by cabin category, journey, season, and party size. Accommodation categories include Deluxe Cabins (twin or double bed) and Presidential Suites. Please contact Palace Trains for the latest pricing and availability: call us toll-free at 1-800-724-5120, internationally / WhatsApp at +1-786-408-0610, or email travel@palacetours.com — we'll confirm exact fares for your chosen departure.
What accommodation and cabin types are available?+
The Deccan Odyssey offers three cabin categories. Double Bed Deluxe Cabins and Twin-Bed Deluxe Cabins both feature a private en-suite bathroom with shower, four-channel music, individual temperature control, direct-dial telephone, electronic safe, and 24-hour butler service (one valet per sleeper carriage, shared among eight passengers). Presidential Suites — two suites per dedicated carriage — comprise a master bedroom, a separate living area, two full bathrooms, and a DVD player; they accommodate up to three adults, or two adults and two children, with a dedicated butler at all hours.
What is included in the fare?+
Most luxury train fares include accommodation, onboard dining, and curated shore excursions; the Deccan Odyssey is designed as a fully immersive experience with gourmet meals, guided visits to UNESCO sites, royal palaces and wildlife reserves, and use of all onboard facilities including the spa, lounge, and bar cars. Inclusions can vary by journey and departure, so we recommend confirming exactly what is covered for your specific trip — contact Palace Trains at travel@palacetours.com or 1-800-724-5120.
When does the Deccan Odyssey operate and when can I travel?+
There are currently 46 upcoming departures, running from September 2026 through December 2027. The train operates across a broad season covering January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December — avoiding the peak summer monsoon months of June, July, and August. To see the full departure calendar or to find the best dates for your travel, visit the Deccan Odyssey page on our website or contact Palace Trains directly.
Who operates the Deccan Odyssey and what makes it special?+
The Deccan Odyssey is operated by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation and accommodates no more than 80 guests, creating an intimate atmosphere that larger rail journeys cannot match. With a crew of over 30, the ratio of staff to passengers is exceptional — including personal butlers, valets, and on-call service around the clock. Onboard highlights include a spa car with massage therapy, sauna, and beauty treatments; a small gymnasium; two restaurant cars serving dynamic destination-specific menus; lounge and bar cars; and even a conference carriage with internet and secretarial services.
How do I book or check availability?+
Contact Palace Trains to discuss your preferred journey, travel dates, and cabin type — we handle all reservations and will walk you through availability, pricing, and any pre- or post-tour land programmes. Reach us toll-free at 1-800-724-5120, internationally or via WhatsApp at +1-786-408-0610, or by email at travel@palacetours.com.
What dining experience can I expect on board?+
The Deccan Odyssey features two sumptuously decorated restaurant cars serving fresh three- to four-course menus curated at every stop, reflecting the culinary traditions of each region visited. Expect Maharashtrian and Goan specialities alongside Continental and Chinese options, with breakfast and dinner always served on board and lunch occasionally taken at the destination. The menus change throughout the journey, ensuring a varied and authentically regional dining experience.
What excursions and highlights can I expect along the route?+
Shore excursions are built into the journey and are tailored to each itinerary's destinations. Depending on your chosen route, highlights may include the Taj Mahal in Agra, tiger-spotting at Ranthambore National Park, the royal cities of Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Jaipur, the temples of Khajuraho, the sacred ghats of Varanasi, the colonial hill station of Shimla, or the tea gardens and mountain railways of Darjeeling. Many of these stops are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and all excursions are guided, giving guests deep cultural and historical context.