Inspirational India - The Deccan Odyssey and Beyond

On arrival in Delhi we will transfer to our hotel. Later on this afternoon, we'll start our explorations of India, beginning in New Delhi. On an orientation tour we will see the government buildings - India Gate, President House and Parliament House. We will then visit the Rail Museum which tells the story of India's railway heritage. This evening we will gather together for a welcome dinner and drink. 
Meals included: D

Today is the day we step into the realm of romance and royalty as we board the luxury heritage train - Deccan Odyssey - for our 7-night stay onboard. The train offers five-star luxury and has been exclusively chartered for Just You customers. You'll indulge in grandeur, impeccable service, and a nod to yesteryears. Before we board the train, we will take a city tour of Delhi, including Gandhi's House. We'll also visit Humayun's Tomb and take a cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi - an experience not to be missed! After our tour, we will board the Deccan Odyssey to begin our enchanting journey, towards Agra.
Meals included: B,L,D

The Deccan Odyssey will drop us off in the magical city of Agra where we'll take in breath-taking views of the iconic Taj Mahal. This magnificent mausoleum, built by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz, is one of the world's most glorious sights. We'll enjoy lunch in the city before heading to visit Agra Fort, another example of Mughal architecture, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son. 
Meals included: B,L,D

Our next stop is Sawai Madhopur, our alighting point for our visit to the famous Ranthambore National Park. The park is one of the finest tiger reserves in the country and the most likely place to spot one of these majestic animals. We will take a village walk, before heading into the jungle for a safari. As well as hoping to spot tigers, we will aim to see some of the other species that make the park their home, from herds of deer and wild boar to the flourishing populations of birdlife like partridge, quail, eagle and woodpecker.
Meals included: B,L,D

Today we'll arrive in the historic capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur, often known as the 'Pink City'. Whilst here, we'll see the forts and palaces, and explore the colourful, bustling bazaars of this beautiful city.
Meals included: B,L,D

Udaipur, often called the Venice of the East, is our destination today, and we arrive with time to take a tour of the City Palace and Crystal Gallery before a boat ride on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. Later in the afternoon you may choose to take a walk through the charming streets of the Old City.
Meals included: B, L, D

Today, we will arrive in the Royal City of the Gaekwads - Vadodara. We'll visit the famous Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, the magnificent Jami Masjid, which dates back to the 15th century, and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, home to a large number of art works. Before re-joining the Deccan Odyssey we will enjoy snacks and tea at the Laxmi Vilas Palace, built in 1890 as residence for the royal family. The palace houses a remarkable collection of old armoury and sculptures. Here we will witness a folk performance typical of the region as you savour some delicacies from the royal kitchens.
Meals included: B, L, D

This morning we have time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and enjoy activities on board the train. Before lunch is served and we head out on the scenic journey from our stop in Aurangabad to the World Heritage site - Ellora Caves. Considered the finest example of cave-temple architecture in India, the site includes 34 rock-cut shrines representing Buddhist, Jain and Hindu art dating from the 4th to 5th century AD.
Meals included: B,L,D

It's time to disembark our luxurious train in Mumbai. Here we will have the chance to explore some of the city's highlights, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum and take a short walking tour of Kala Ghoda chowk where galleries and art stalls mix.
Meals included: B,L,D

It is time to fly to Amritsar. On arrival we have time to check in and enjoy dinner before heading out this evening to see the daily ritual of the Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple.
Meals included: B,D

This morning we will return to the Golden Temple. Famous for its golden dome, the Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrim sites for Sikhs. The Mandir is built on a square of marble and the upper half of the building was built with approximately 400kg of gold leaf. We'll also visit Jaliawala Bagh, followed by a walk around the local market in Amritsar Town.
Meals included: B,D

We will drive to Kandaghat where we will board the famous toy train to Shimla. It's a spectacular journey, crossing bridges and cutting through tunnels in the landscape.
Meals included: B,D

We'll explore Shimla with a sightseeing city tour, highlights include Viceregal Lodge and Gaiety Theatre which is where many music videos and Bollywood productions are filmed. We'll also visit Scandal Point and the Mall Road. This afternoon there will be free time to explore at your own pace.
Meals included: B,D

Today is free for you to explore Shimla as you wish.
Meals included: B,D

This morning we will depart Shimla and head back to Delhi. We travel first to Chandigarh where we join the train to take us on to Delhi.
Meals included: B,L,D

Today we will fly back to the UK, arriving back the same day.
Meals included: B