Maharashtra Splendour: A Luxury Train Journey Aboard The Deccan Odyssey

In the morning, the train will have arrived at the sacred city of Nashik, known for its links to the ‘Ramayana’ epic poem, its ancient shrines and the Panchavati temple complex.

After enjoying breakfast on board, you’ll disembark and take a leisurely stroll along the Godavari Ghats, observing various Hindu rituals being performed at the water’s edge. Following this, you’ll walk through the bustling markets which line the ghats, seeing a variety of items for sale including fresh vegetables, dried seafood and cow dung cakes.

Later, you’ll head towards the picturesque Grover Zampa vineyards, one of India’s finest wine-producing vineyards. Here you can enjoy a tour of the winery to learn about its cultivation of Chenin, Chardonnay and Shiraz grape varieties. You’ll then be able to sample some of the red, white and sparkling wines that are produced at the vineyard while you sit down for a delectable lunch.

After lunch, you’ll return to the Deccan Odyssey which will continue its journey towards Aurangabad and the mystical Ellora Caves.


Accommodation: The Deccan Odyssey.

Indulge in a replenishing breakfast on board as the Deccan Odyssey pulls into Jalgaon station.

You will then disembark the train and journey to the Ajanta Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave temples that boast intricate carvings and paintings of Buddhist pictorial art.

After exploring these stunning cave temples, you return to the train to enjoy lunch on board as its sets off for the vibrant city of Kolhapur, set on the banks of the Panchaganga River. Take some time to relax on board by watching a movie, playing a game of carrom or treating yourself to a rejuvenating massage at the on-board spa. As evening falls, sip on your favourite tipple while watching the passing landscapes before sitting down for a delicious dinner.


Accommodation: The Deccan Odyssey.

Arriving in Goa, you’ll begin the day with breakfast on board before disembarking for a sightseeing tour.

You’ll begin the tour in Fontainhas, the charming Latin Quarters in Panjim (Goa’s state capital), where you can admire the colourful, well-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture. Take a UNESCO World Heritage Walk to learn all about the Portuguese influence on Goa, which began in the 16th century when the Portuguese Empire established its first trade agreements, with Goa becoming the major anchorage point for the arriving Portuguese armadas.

Next, you’ll visit Ribandar, the former capital of Goa, where you can explore ancient churches and the ruins of the 17th-century St. Augustine tower. Afterwards, you’ll be driven to the Sahakari Spice Plantation for a traditional Goan feast. Enjoy spice-rich recipes including feni, shrimps, kingfish and mackerel. After your lunch, you can watch a Goan folk performance and take a tour of the spice plantation to learn how Portuguese trade flourished in India. Then, experience local Goan life by visiting an old Portuguese house for an insight into the region’s fascinating heritage before returning to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner as it trundles toward Sindhudurg, passing through the scenic Konkan region.


Accommodation: The Deccan Odyssey.

Spend a leisurely morning on board before disembarking in Mumbai at approximately 16:35. Alighting at Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel to spend the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.


Accommodation: Trident Nariman Point, Mumbai (or alternative hotel of equal standard).