Welcome to Jewels of the Deccan, an 8-day journey through India’s Deccan plateau on India’s premier luxury train, the Deccan Odyssey, that takes you through tales and architectural wonders of the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur to the Chalukyan in Aihole & Pattadakal, onto the powerful Vijayanagara kingdom in Hampi ; to the contrasting styles of the Qutb Shahi dynasty of Golconda and the Asaf Jahi, established later in Hyderabad and finally visits to some of the most prominent & unexplored destinations of west-central India, with a trip to the unrivaled Ajanta & Ellora Caves. Sprinkled among these stories and fables, are visits to quaint little towns famed for hand operated looms that weave vast quantities of beautiful fabric, and samplings of some of the best Dakkhani cuisine to be had. A railroad journey like none other, in a land like no other, we welcome you on board the Deccan Odyssey.

• Saturday Day 1 : Board the Deccan Odyssey at Mumbai – on to Bijapur

  Welcome aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

  Early in the evening, you will reach the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus at approximately 15.30 hours to complete the registration process. Once the check in and formalities for your Jewels of the Deccan journey are complete, you will receive a traditional Indian welcome, and a refreshing drink.

  You will then be guided to your royal Indian cabins. Soon the Deccan Odyssey will begin its journey from Mumbai to Bijapur in Karnataka.

  Welcome drink and dinner on board.

  Overnight on Deccan Odyssey.

• Sunday Day 2 : Bijapur

  This morning, enjoy a scrumptious breakfast on the Deccan Odyssey. We will also arrive at Bijapur, the historic capital of the Sultans of Deccan.

  The Kalyani Chalukyas were responsible for establishing Bijapur between the 10th and 11th. However, it was often passed into the hands of new conquerors and invaders. During the second half of 16th and early 17th century, Bijapur gained a prominent place among the most celebrated cities of India under the aegis of the Adil Shahi dynasty. It even surpassed hugely popular cities of Delhi and Agra. Adil Shahi Sultan's secular nature and liberal patronage ensured many scholars, poets, painters, dancers, calligraphers, musicians, Sufi saints and other men of arts flocked to Bijapur. It later became famous as the 'Palmyra of the Deccan'.

  Post breakfast, move on to visit the Gol Gumbaz, literally 'round dome', and the second largest tomb in the world. This mausoleum of Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur, is a magnificent testimony of the architectural triumph of Deccan architecture. The circular gallery, especially, where the tiniest of whispers gets magnified due to the unique acoustics of the dome is one of the main highlights of the Gol Gumbaz.

  Next, head to the Jumma Masjid, which is renowned as one of the first mosques in India. Then proceed to the largest medieval cannon in the world - Malik-e-Maidan. While you're here, don't forget to make a wish here! Legend has it that if you touch the gun and make a wish, there's a pretty good chance it will come true. So, go on and ask for something.

  Visit Mehtar Mahal, the 17th century ornamental gateway to a mosque. Post that, explore Ibrahim Rouza, which is one of the most graceful Islamic monuments of India. It is believed that Ibrahim Rouza's 24m high minarets inspired those of the Taj Mahal.

  Return to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch on board. The train will then depart for Aihole & Pattadakal.

  As the evening sets in, notice the change in shades of the formidable granite landscape as the Deccan Odyssey makes its way through the Deccan plateau.

  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner onboard

  Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

• Monday Day 3 : Aihole - Pattadakal

  Wake up early this morning, and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then head out to discover the ancient settlements and temples of Aihole and Pattadakal, one of the largest temple complexes across the globe.

  A trip here will help you understand why Aihole is often called the cradle of Indian architecture. It is home to over 70 rock cut temples, which was constructed by the Chalukyan kings in a completely experimental style. However, the fact that each temple is different from the others in the complex, and even from other temples in India itself makes Aihole truly unique.

  Continue on to Pattadakal, which is located on the banks of the Malaprabha River. Witness its architectural style that radiates a seamless blend of South Indian (Dravidian) and North Indian (Nagara) forms. In fact, it is believed that this form of architecture was the inspiration behind the Hoysala and other dynasties.

  Head back to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch.

  Post lunch, opt for an optional tour of the weaving village of Guledgud. This place is famous for hand and power looms of ilkal and khann. Witness the process of weaving, and shop for beautiful souvenirs to take back home. You also have the option to visit Badami's sculptured temples and rock cut caves.

  Head back to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner as it makes its way to Hampi.

  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board

  Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

• Tuesday Day 4 : Hampi

  Today the Deccan Odyssey reaches Hospet. Visit the iconic City of Victory, Hampi. Explore the sacred and royal centres, palaces and impressive temples.

  This morning as you enjoy breakfast, the Deccan Odyssey rolls into Hospet. Today you will visit the iconic City of Victory - Hampi, a World Heritage site, famous for its splendid architecture, sculptures and their historical significance.

  A short drive quickly changes your landscape from the city bustle to sentient massive boulders as you reach Hampi. Stop at the Narasimha statue and spend some time taking pictures and looking around.

  Next head to the mustard Ganesh, located at the base of the Hemkuta hills, and quite a misnomer as the elephant God statue here is anything but small! Take in the breathtaking vistas around the hills with their little caves and alcoves. Walk the banks of the Tungabhadra River as you leave the Virupaksha temple on to the famed Vittala temple, the polar power sites of Hampi, one a living temple, the other a most extravagant architectural showpiece.

  Head back to Hospet for lunch on board the Deccan Odyssey.

  Post lunch, disembark once more to continue your exploration, reaching the Royal Center at Hampi. This area was the citadel of the Vijayanagara kings and encompasses courtly and military structures. Visit the Queens Bath, the Stepped Tank, the Mahanavami Dibba or great platform, where a ramp is available to reach its summit, the Hazararama Temple, the Queens Enclosure with its Lotus Mahal and the Elephant stables.

  After a full day of visiting the wonders of Hampi, return to the Hospet station. Board the Deccan Odyssey for your onward journey to Hyderabad as you sit down at dinner.

  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board

  Overnight on Deccan Odyssey

• Wednesday Day 5 : Hyderabad

  Today, Deccan Odyssey will reach the royal city of the Nizams, Hyderabad. According to legends, this capital of the Asaf Jahi dynasty was originally named after Bhagmati, the Hindu wife of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. But she later converted to Islam, and changed her name to Hyder Mahal, which have the city its current name.

  This morning, enjoy an early breakfast and drive to Golconda - the epitome of Nizami culture and grandeur. What was originally a mud fort, soon acquired impressive proportions after it became the seat of power of the Qutub Shahi dynasty.

  Head to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch.

  Alternately, you can also choose an optional shopping tour. Hyderabad is the perfect place to buy pearls, lac bangles and custom made oil based fragrances or "ittars" amongst other. Follow up this shopping trip with the delectable Hyderabadi Biryani for lunch.

  Proceed to Falaknuma Palace, which stands for "like the sky". Akin to its name, this palace stands tall, almost reaching the clouds. Enjoy sumptuous high tea, post the tour of this stunning palace.

  Then move on to explore the old city area of Charminar. Filled with bustling bazaars, it stands tall in the centre of the city. One of the most recognized structures of India, it was allegedly built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah to fulfil his vow of building a mosque if the plague epidemic devastating the city ceased. Walk through the markets in the Charminar area, especially the Laad Bazaar for the local jewellery, and Pather Gatti for the celebrated Deccan pearls.

   

  Return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner as Deccan Odyssey continues the journey to Aurangabad.

  Breakfast and lunch on board, High tea at Falaknuma Palace and dinner on board.

  Overnight on board the Deccan Odyssey.

• Thursday Day 6 : Aurangabad – Ellora Caves

  Named after the last Great Mughal Aurangzeb, Aurangabad is an industrial town in Maharashtra. From here, we will proceed to visit the brilliantly carved Ellora Caves, a World Heritage site. The city itself radiates Mughal influences, and is home to several stunning monuments. This includes the Daulatabad Fort, Bibi-ka-Maqbara and the city's 52 gates, each with a history as fascinating as the monuments themselves.

  As you enjoy breakfast, the Deccan Odyssey will arrive at Aurangabad. Here, a scenic drive to the Ellora Caves, carved into the side of a basaltic hill 30 km from the city awaits you. Witness the finest specimen of cave-temple architecture in India on this site. It encompasses 34 rock-cut shrines that beautifully showcase Buddhist, Jain and Hindu art dating from the 4th to 5th century AD. The 17 caves in the centre are Hindu, 12 caves to the south are Buddhist, while the 5 caves to the north are Jain. If you want a glimpse of the best example of rock cut architecture, then head to the Kailash temple. A replica of Shiva's celestial abode on Mt. Kailash, it is simply an engineering marvel. Relish a leisurely lunch on board as the surroundings of Maharashtra sweeps past, with its ever-changing and inspiring landscape.

  In the evening, unwind and enjoy cocktails fixed by our bartender onboard. Follow this with a lavish dinner and a well deserved rest as the Deccan Odyssey moves towards Jalgaon. The exquisite Ajanta Caves - a World Heritage site is next on our list of must-visit attractions.

  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board

  Overnight on Deccan Odyssey.

• Friday Day 7 : Ajanta Caves

  The Deccan Odyssey will arrive at the Jalgaon station this morning. Post breakfast onboard, you will drive to the Ajanta Caves, and explore yet another architectural marvel. The 30 rock-hewn Buddhist caves adorned with paintings and sculptures of Buddhist religious art are nothing less than spectacular. Skilfully carved, they depict the fusion between Buddhist and Hindu faith.

  Lunch will be on board the Deccan Odyssey.

  Post lunch, you will disembark to visit the Mahatma Gandhi memorial. There are many lessons waiting to be learnt at the Gandhi Teerth, which pays ode to the man who quoted "My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the means of realising Him."

  In the evening, the Deccan Odyssey will pull into its last leg of journey back to Mumbai. Take in the views of a rustic India as you sip a sun downer, and enjoy a delicious dinner.

  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on board.

  Overnight on Deccan Odyssey.

• Saturday Day 8 : Disembark in Mumbai

  Early this morning, after breakfast, you will disembark at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai.

  Bid farewell to the Deccan Odyssey as your royal passage through the grand vistas of India comes to an end.

  Breakfast on board.