Deccan Odyssey: Darjeeling Mail (Westbound) (Tour code: 14217)

Arrival day at Kolkata Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the iconic five-star Taj Bengal, Kolkata for a two-night stay, a landmark five-star hotel in the exclusive neighbourhood of Alipore.

Please note: All meals today are at your own arrangements. 

Credit - Taj Bengal Hotel

Kolkata is a sensory delight and cultural extravaganza that is constantly evolving.  After breakfast, spend the day exploring and absorbing the many sights that comprise this enthralling city that was once India’s capital. Today's tour includes a visit to the Victoria Memorial, one of the finest and most prominent buildings in Kolkata which houses a museum dedicated to the history of India.

Later, travel around Dalhousie Square, the bustling hub of English colonial power and trade during the two centuries of British rule.  Your final stop is South Park Street Cemetery, an atmospheric and still space within the clamour of modern day Kolkata.

In the evening, a drinks reception is followed by a Welcome Dinner at your hotel, where you can get to know your fellow travellers who will share this remarkable Indian rail odyssey.

Overnight stay in Kolkata.

Kolkata

Today, set off on a remarkable journey to the hill station of Darjeeling. You have the option to travel by bus, which takes 3-4 hours, or to board the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a journey time of around 6 hours from Tindharia. This narrow-gauge railway, affectionately known as the ‘Toy Train,’ measures just 2ft (610mm) across.

As you travel through breathtaking scenery, the train winds and loops, steadily climbing to the cooler air of India’s most famous hill station. Ascend to Ghum, the highest railway station in India at 7,407 feet (2,258 metres), where the snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga—the world’s third-highest peak—dominates the horizon. The train then descends 595 feet (181 metres) into Darjeeling, passing through the elegant double loop at Batasia. A packed lunch will be served on board before you arrive in colonial Darjeeling.

Tonight, dine at the Hotel Mayfair, where you'll also stay for the next three nights. Nestled on a scenic hill with stunning valley views, the Mayfair is a heritage hotel that radiates old-world charm and refined elegance.

Overnight stay in Darjeeling.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Awaken to the stunning scenery of Mount Kanchenchunga and this morning you can ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway up to Batasia Loop and Ghum, climbing 600 feet during its 7km journey. The senses reel as you experience the chaotic nature of roadside life, passing within inches of colourful shops, houses and enthralling monasteries.

The afternoon tour of Darjeeling provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the elegant grandeur of colonial life as well as the contrasting culture of a Tibetan refugee centre. Finally, there is an absorbing visit to the Himalayan Institute where you will learn about some of the famous mountaineering expeditions.

Overnight stay in Darjeeling. 

Darjeeling

This morning, weather permitting, you'll have a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch the sun rising over the snow-capped high leaks of the Himalayas rising majestically 200 miles away on the horizon. Your early morning trip to Tiger Hill is a fantastic experience that captures the very character of one of our planet’s most overwhelming natural sights.

This afternoon, you'll visit a local tea plantation in Darjeeling and sample the freshest cup of tea most of us are ever likely to taste!

Overnight stay in Darjeeling. 
 

Local tea plantation

Mid-afternoon sees you boarding the private train, Deccan Odyssey, for the perfect way to experience the colour, character and amazing diversity of India.  Settle into your beautifully appointed private en-suite cabin, enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of the stylish Bar Lounge Car and experience fine Indian or western cuisine prepared by the resident chefs.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Board the Deccan Odyssey

Varanasi simply has to be experienced to be understood. Arrive early morning at Varanasi, one of India’s most sacred and spiritual places, offering the opportunity to discover what is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the world. Situated on the banks of the River Ganges this cultural and religious centre, known as the City of Light and established between 3 – 5,000 years ago, is a focus for Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges and perform funeral rites.

Guests are privileged to witness these time-honoured ceremonies as we travel on a private river cruise. Your exploration of Varanasi is completed with a guided walk and rickshaw ride through the winding ancient streets, home to some 2,000 temples, of this remarkable city.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey. 

Varanasi

One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant city, famous for its traditional bazaars and street markets.

A fascinating city tour in this pulsating metropolis takes in the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb, the first example of Mughal architecture in India, and the towering Indo-Islamic Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world at 238ft (73m) which dates from 1368.

Tonight, you will enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board the train as it continues the journey across India.

Overnight aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Site of Humayun's Tomb

After breakfast, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. Known as a ‘ghost city’, this red sandstone town was abandoned only shortly after being built due to lack of water in 1585.

This afternoon - the journey takes you to Agra Fort, a magnificent structure that dominates the skyline and acted as the main residence for emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. Its red sandstone walls run for 2.5 km and contain many fairy-tale palaces and two beautifully preserved mosques.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Fatehpur Sikri

Today is devoted to visiting the impossibly beautiful Taj Mahal, built entirely of white marble on the south bank of the Yamuna river and indisputably the most famous building in the world.

Completed in 1648 by Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and took 22 years and 20,000 artisan workers to complete. Nowhere else on the planet will you experience such a poignant architectural statement dedicated to the enduring nature of human love and inspirational artistry.

Taj Mahal

Arriving in Rajasthan's capital for breakfast, the 'Pink City' of Jaipur captivates the senses as you delve into its vibrant and storied past. This morning, you'll visit the Amber Fort, exploring its awe-inspiring and intricate grandeur, including the stunning Hall of Mirrors.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your journey with a visit to the Jantar Mantar Observatory, the grand City Palace, and the exquisite Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This delicate yet enduring monument, built entirely of pink sandstone in 1799, was designed to allow royal ladies to discreetly observe daily life. If time allows, you'll also visit a renowned fabric market before returning to the train to refresh.

This evening, you'll dine at the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel, originally built in 1835 and once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The palace retains its lavish splendour, featuring intricately carved marble jalis (latticework), sandstone balustrades, cupolas, chattris (cenotaphs) and elaborate Mughal gardens.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Amber Fort

Today, spend a leisurely morning on board as the landscape and spirit of India unfolds before your eyes. You will have the opportunity to listen to a talk on Indian culture before arriving at Udaipur, known as the ‘City of Lakes’ or ‘Venice of the East’. A beguiling tapestry of breathtaking lakes and opulently majestic palaces from the Rajput era await your discovery.

The afternoon is spent admiring the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lake Palace constructed entirely of marble, which sits on its own island in the shimmering waters of Pichola Lake, and visiting the medieval grandeur of City Palace.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Udaipur City Palace

On Day 13, you will arrive in Mumbai and say farewell to the Deccan Odyssey and transfer to the iconic five-star Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Hotel for a luxurious two-night stay. This flagship Taj hotel offers you splendid views of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India, alongside refined century-old hospitality. This legendary hotel has played host to kings, dignitaries and eminent personalities from across the globe.

The captivating city of Mumbai is steeped in culture and history. During your two-night stay, you'll visit the ‘Dhobi Ghats,’ a fascinating outdoor laundry where traditional dhobis collect, wash, and return your garments neatly pressed. These ghats are where this age-old practice continues to thrive. The itinerary also includes a visit to Fort Bombay and Gandhi’s House, now a compelling museum that chronicles his inspirational life.

Weather permitting, you'll take a short cruise from the Gateway of India to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This lush, palm-covered island is home to an atmospheric cave complex dating back to the 3rd–5th century, dedicated to the life of Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s most revered deities.

In the city, you'll enjoy lunch at the renowned seafood restaurant, Trishna. You will also have free time to explore Mumbai independently or visit one of its vibrant local markets as part of the touring programme.

Two-night stay in Mumbai.
Deluxe Class guests will stay in the Tower Wing, Presidential Suite guests reside in the Palace Wing.

Elephanta Island

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Mumbai Airport to commence your journey home.