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Great Rail Journeys · Independent

India's Deccan Odyssey – Mumbai to Rajasthan

Luxury train journey through India from Mumbai to Delhi in 13 days

Illustration of India's Deccan Odyssey – Mumbai to Rajasthan

India's Deccan Odyssey is a 13-day luxury train journey operated by Great Rail Journeys that takes you from Mumbai to Delhi aboard the Deccan Odyssey, with 7 nights sleeping in a deluxe cabin. The package combines an overnight flight from London with time to explore Mumbai and Delhi in 4-star or 5-star hotels, plus a curated rail journey through Rajasthan and central India. You visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, the palaces and forts of Udaipur and Jodhpur, and Ranthambore National Park on a jungle safari. Days on the train feature leisurely breakfasts, guided excursions in each city, and multi-course dinners with fine wines served aboard. The itinerary balances guided cultural visits (a boat ride on Lake Pichola, a barbecue dinner in Mehrangarh Fort's courtyard, shopping in Agra's bazaars) with unguided time to wander city streets and markets. This package suits luxury travellers, rail enthusiasts, and those with a passion for history and Indian culture who want comfort and structure combined with independence in each destination.

What to know before you look closer

  • This is an independent tour: you are not escorted throughout, but Great Rail Journeys arranges transport and accommodation, with most meals included aboard the train
  • Hotels in Mumbai and Delhi are offered on a choice basis (4-star or 5-star options); your final hotel depends on which tier you select
  • Visa requirements for India are not mentioned in the package; confirm entry requirements and any visa applications with the operator before booking

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: In flight

    Fly UK to India

    Your incredible journey begins today when you take your overnight flight from London to Mumbai.

  2. Day 2overnight: Mumbai

    Mumbai

    On arrival in Mumbai you'll be transferred to your hotel. Choose between our 4* and 5* hotels, on a B&B basis.

    Meals: Breakfast

  3. Day 3overnight: Mumbai

    Exploring Mumbai

    Today you can enjoy some free time in Mumbai, and get to know the city better. Formerly Bombay, Mumbai is the business centre of India, but it's also where India's Bollywood films are made and where art galleries and museums can be found. This sprawling city is getting larger and more populated all the time, but you can still sense the essence of Mumbai by strolling its streets, watching the locals go by, and gazing at the incredibly varied architecture. Optional excursions available at a supplement.

    Meals: Breakfast

  4. Day 4railovernight: Deccan Odyssey (train)

    The Deccan Odyssey

    Today you'll transfer to Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus where the luxurious Deccan Odyssey train is waiting for you, and you'll begin your enchanting journey to Vadodara, the Royal city of the Gaekwads. When you step aboard the Deccan Odyssey, you'll discover the wonders of the golden age of travel, while enjoying every modern amenity you need. There's even a spa coach where you can book treatments and experience total relaxation.

  5. Day 5railovernight: Deccan Odyssey (train)

    Vadodara

    Following a relaxed breakfast onboard this morning, you'll arrive at Vadodara, the Royal city of the Gaekwads. You'll visit the famous Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (World Heritage Site), see the magnificent Jami Masjid monument and visit the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum. You'll experience a fascinating folk dance performance and enjoy a wide array of delicacies from the royal kitchens at the Lukshmi Villas Palace. Return to the train for a lavish dinner onboard.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  6. Day 6railovernight: Deccan Odyssey (train)

    Udaipur and Lake Pichola

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard before arriving at the regal state of Udaipur. You'll take a tour of the City Palace and Crystal Gallery, followed by a magical boat ride on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. A three-course lunch is served back onboard. In the afternoon you can relax in your cabin or in the bar car, or walk through the charming streets of the Old City. Dinner is served onboard the train this evening.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  7. Day 7railovernight: Deccan Odyssey (train)

    The Blue City of Jodhpur

    Arrive at Jodhpur, the 'Blue City'. Enjoy the intriguing sights including Jaswant Thada and the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. End the day with barbecue delights in the enchanting courtyard of the Mehrangarh Fort. Return to the train to enjoy a drink in the bar car 'Mumbai Hi' or get cosy in your cabin.

    Meals: Breakfast

  8. Day 8railovernight: Deccan Odyssey (train)

    The Pink City of Jaipur

    Following your leisurely breakfast onboard, you'll arrive at the historic capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur, often known as the 'Pink City'. Spend some time exploring the forts and palaces of this fascinating city, and take an intriguing walk through the colourful bazaars. Return to the train for a relaxed dinner onboard, enjoying regional and international dishes paired with fine wines.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  9. Day 9railovernight: Deccan Odyssey (train)

    The Taj Mahal

    As you enjoy your relaxed breakfast onboard, the Deccan Odyssey takes you to the magical city of Agra. Marvel at the wondrous views of the iconic Taj Mahal (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Visit other architectural treasures of the Mughal Era like Itmad Ud Daula and the Agra Fort where you can indulge in some artefact shopping. Dinner is served back onboard the train this evening.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  10. Day 10railovernight: Deccan Odyssey (train)

    Tiger spotting in Ranthambore National Park

    Enjoy your leisurely breakfast onboard before arriving in Ranthambore, where you'll begin the day with a mesmerising village walk in Canters. Lunch is served onboard the train. Later in the day, you'll enjoy a thrilling Jungle Safari in an open vehicle through the National Park looking for big cats, wild boars, and hyenas. Dinner is served back onboard the train.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  11. Day 11railovernight: Delhi

    Delhi

    After an early morning breakfast onboard, you'll arrive in Delhi and disembark the train at the Delhi Cantt Railway Station. You'll be transferred to your hotel in Delhi. Choose between our handpicked 4* and 5* hotels, on a B&B basis.

    Meals: Breakfast

  12. Day 12overnight: Delhi

    Exploring Delhi

    Today you can enjoy a free day in Delhi, getting to know the city better. Take a stroll around town and soak up the atmosphere, visit a temple or two and see the magnificent Red Fort. Try out a few local dishes and visit the vibrant and colourful markets. Optional excursions available at a supplement.

    Meals: Breakfast

  13. Day 13

    Delhi to the UK

    Your epic adventure comes to a close today when you are transferred from your hotel to Delhi airport for your flight back to London. Optional extensions available.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 4Board the Deccan Odyssey at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and step into the golden age of travel with all modern amenities
  • Day 5Visit the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park World Heritage Site in Vadodara and experience a folk dance performance
  • Day 6Take a boat ride on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola in Udaipur after touring the City Palace and Crystal Gallery
  • Day 7Explore Jodhpur's blue-painted streets, visit Mehrangarh Fort, and dine on barbecue in the fort's courtyard
  • Day 9Marvel at the Taj Mahal and explore Mughal-era treasures in Agra

Included

  • 4 nights in 4-star hotel accommodation (Bed and Breakfast)
  • Deluxe cabin for 7 nights on the Deccan Odyssey Train
  • Private transfers throughout
  • Flights between London and Mumbai, and Delhi and London

Not included

  • Cancellation & Travel Insurance

Questions travellers ask

Is train travel included?
Yes. You travel 7 nights in a deluxe cabin on the Deccan Odyssey from Mumbai to Delhi, visiting Vadodara, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra, and Ranthambore. Flights from London to Mumbai and return from Delhi are also included.
Is this an escorted or independent tour?
This is an independent package. Great Rail Journeys arranges your accommodation, train travel, private transfers, and most meals, but you explore cities at your own pace.
Which hotels can I stay in?
Great Rail Journeys offers a choice of 4-star or 5-star hotels on a bed and breakfast basis. In Mumbai you choose between the Trident Nariman Point or Taj Mahal Hotel; in Delhi between The Claridges or The Oberoi.
What meals are included?
Most meals aboard the Deccan Odyssey are included, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served on travel days. Hotel stays include breakfast; dinners in hotels are not included.
How much walking is involved?
The tour includes city walks in Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Delhi; a village walk in Ranthambore; and a jungle safari in an open vehicle. No high-altitude hiking or strenuous activity is listed.
What is not included?
Cancellation and travel insurance are not included. Optional excursions such as a private Delhi sightseeing tour or gastronomic tours are available at additional cost.

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