Deccan Odyssey
Back
Deccan Odyssey: Splendours of Northern India (Shimla & Amritsar)
Thumbnails
Deccan Odyssey
India

Deccan Odyssey: Splendours of Northern India (Shimla & Amritsar) (Tour code: 14215)

Starts and Ends
Delhi to
Mumbai
Travel Periods
17 Feb 2025
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Holiday Packages
Experience the ultimate luxury journey through Northern India, from Delhi’s vibrant streets to Shimla’s serene hills, and Amritsar’s rich culture. Discover Jaipur’s grand palaces, Udaipur’s tranquil lakes, and the iconic Taj Mahal.

Highlights

The UNESCO-honoured Elephanta cave complex, dedicated to Lord Shiva

An exclusive royal dining experience at the Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur

A private alfresco breakfast overlooking the Taj Mahal

Travel on the iconic UNESCO honoured ‘Toy Train’, through the picturesque Shivalik hills

Experience a sacred Palki ceremony at the Golden Temple, Amritsar

15 days
From
AUD 25,662
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Overview

Embark on the Splendours of Northern India, featuring an exclusive Shimla and Amritsar pre-train land extension. Journey from Delhi’s lively streets to Shimla’s tranquil beauty, Amritsar’s spiritual charm to Agra’s regal splendour, Jaipur’s vibrant culture to Udaipur’s serene lakes, and Mumbai’s dynamic atmosphere. Explore iconic sites like Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, and the Taj Mahal while enjoying luxurious accommodations and curated experiences. This is an extraordinary exploration of India’s diverse landscapes, rich heritage and timeless allure on this magical voyage. 

Inclusions

1 night in in Taj Palace Delhi (Start of tour)
2 nights in Taj Swarna Amritsar
3 nights in Wildflower Hall, an Oberoi resort, Shimla
1 night in Taj Palace Delhi (mid-tour)
5 nights private en-suite accommodation on the Deccan Odyssey
2 nights in Taj Palace & Tower Hotel, Mumbai
Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 12 Dinners
Generous drinks allowance, including international wines with lunch and dinner
Expertly guided off-train excursions as detailed in the itinerary
Arrival and departure transfers
All gratuities – on and off the train
Experienced Tour Management team
Luggage porterage throughout the journey

Day 1 Delhi

Arrival day at Delhi Airport, where you will be met and transferred to the five-star Taj Palace Hotel (or similar). 
Please note: All meals today are at your own arrangements. 

 

Delhi
Delhi

Day 2 Delhi Shimla

Experience the timeless charm of Shimla, the revered “Queen of Hills” and erstwhile British summer capital. Marvel at snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, serene lakes, and the vibrant countryside, all while relishing a delightful journey aboard the Kalka-Shimla railway.

The UNESCO World Heritage acclaimed “Toy Train”, is a narrow-gauge marvel winding through the picturesque Shivalik hills, offering breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas. Dating back to 1898, this historic railway, adorned with 107 tunnels and 864 bridges, once connected Shimla to the rest of India, a testament to engineering prowess.

Retire for the night at the esteemed Hotel The Oberoi Cecil, where luxury meets heritage, ensuring an unforgettable sojourn for the next three nights.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Delhi → Shimla
Kalka-Shimla railway

Day 3 Shimla

Embark on an exhilarating journey after breakfast as you delve into the rich history of the Kalka-Shimla railway at the Balku Ram rail museum. Named in honour of the legendary Baba Bhalku, a revered saint believed to possess extraordinary engineering skills, the museum showcases rare artifacts from the railway’s storied past. Marvel at the ingenuity that shaped this iconic rail track, a testament to human perseverance and innovation.

Later, immerse yourself in the heritage of Shimla with a captivating afternoon Heritage Walk. Explore the charming hill station, steeped in colonial splendour, as you visit historic landmarks such as the State Museum, Christ Church and the iconic Gaiety Theatre. Wander through the vibrant Mall, soaking in the colourful ambiance of this timeless destination.

Overnight stay in Shimla.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shimla
Shimla

Day 4 Shimla

Today presents an opportunity for leisure, allowing you to bask in the splendor of Shimla’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

Overnight stay in Shimla.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shimla
Shimla

Day 5 Shimla Amritsar

This morning, guests are driven from Shimla to Ambala to board the train for Amritsar.

Amritsar, a cultural gem and spiritual nucleus of the Sikh community, awaits your exploration. Founded in the 16th century by Guru Ram Das Ji, the city’s rich history is steeped in Sikh tradition and heritage. Witness the grandeur of the Golden Temple, a sacred sanctuary and architectural brilliance.

As night falls, immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Palki ceremony at the Golden Temple. Retire for the night to the opulent comforts of Hotel Taj Swarna for a two-night stay, where refined luxury and impeccable service await, ensuring a restful and indulgent stay.

Overnight stay in Amritsar.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shimla → Amritsar
Golden Temple, Amritsar

Day 6 Amritsar

Following a sumptuous breakfast, indulge in a morning filled with cultural immersion as you return to the resplendent Golden Temple, a jewel in the Sikh crown. Marvel at the intricate marble sculptures, gilded spires, and opulent interiors of this sacred sanctuary, where devout pilgrims partake in purifying rituals amidst the tranquil waters that envelop it.

Venture next to the serene gardens of Jallianwala Bagh, where a solemn memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the tragic events of the 1919 massacre, a somber reminder of resilience amidst adversity.

Delve deeper into history with a visit to the Partition Museum, offering a comprehensive narrative of India’s tumultuous partition in 1947. Gain insight into the human experience of this pivotal moment, from the prelude of independence to the enduring aftermath.

In the afternoon, embark on an exclusive excursion to the India-Pakistan border at Atari, where the enthralling flag-lowering ceremony unfolds. Witness the captivating spectacle as soldiers from both sides engage in a spirited display of precision and patriotism.

Overnight stay in Amritsar.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Amritsar
Jallianwala Bagh

Day 7 Amritsar Delhi

Today, travel by scheduled flight from Amritsar and return to Delhi where you will enjoy an overnight stay at Hotel Taj Palace.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Amritsar → Delhi
Amritsar

Day 8 Delhi

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

Today, enjoy a fascinating city tour in this pulsating metropolis - visitthe 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.

Late evening sees guests 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 and enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of the stylish Bar Lounge Car as your rail journey begins. Tonight, enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board the train.

Overnight aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Delhi
Humayun’s Tomb

Day 9 Fatephur Sikri & Agra Fort

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.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fatephur Sikri & Agra Fort
Fatehpur Sikri

Day 10 Agra

Today is dedicated to visiting the breathtaking Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel crafted entirely from white marble on the south bank of the Yamuna River. Recognised as one of the most famous buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal was completed in 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The construction took 22 years and involved 20,000 skilled artisans. This iconic structure stands as a timeless testament to enduring love and artistic brilliance.

The day begins early to avoid the crowds and witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise, allowing you to fully appreciate its magnificence in the soft morning light. Following the visit, enjoy breakfast (weather permitting) in the gardens of the Taj Khema hotel, offering a stunning view of the Taj Mahal in the distance.

Later, return to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch as the journey continues towards the vibrant state of Rajasthan.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Agra
Taj Mahal

Day 11 Jaipur

Arriving in the capital of Rajasthan, the 'Pink City' of Jaipur, you are immediately captivated by its rich and vibrant history. The morning begins with a visit to the Amber Fort, where you get to explore its breath-taking grandeur, including the magnificent Hall of Mirrors.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your journey with a tour of the Jantar Mantar Observatory, followed by a visit to the vast and imposing City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This exquisite yet enduring monument, constructed entirely of pink sandstone, was built in 1799 to allow royal ladies to discreetly observe everyday life. If time permits, you will explore a renowned fabric market before returning to the train for some relaxation.

In the evening, dine at the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel, originally built in 1835 and once the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The palace retains its elaborate splendour, adorned with intricately carved marble ‘jalis’ or latticework, sandstone balustrades, cupolas, ‘chattris’ or cenotaphs, and elaborate Mughal Gardens.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jaipur

Day 12 Udaipur

Spend a leisurely morning on board as the landscape and spirit of India unfolds before your eyes.  Later, 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 breath-taking lakes and opulently majestic palaces from the Rajput era awaits your discovery.

The afternoon is spent admiring the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lake Palace. Constructed entirely of marble, it sits on its own island in the shimmering waters of Pichola Lake. Go on to visit the medieval grandeur of City Palace.

Overnight stay aboard the Deccan Odyssey. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Udaipur
Udaipur City Palace

Day 13 & 14 Mumbai

On Day 13, arrive in Mumbai and bid farewell to the esteemed Deccan Odyssey as guests are transferred to the luxurious five-star Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Hotel for a lavish two-night stay. Enjoy the opulent accommodations of this flagship Taj property, offering unparalleled views of the Arabian Sea and the iconic Gateway of India, all complemented by over a century of refined hospitality. This legendary hotel, which has hosted royalty, dignitaries, and luminaries from around the world, epitomises grandeur and extravagance.

Mumbai, a vibrant metropolis rich in cultural heritage, awaits your discovery during this exclusive stay. Visit the fascinating 'Dhobi Ghats,' an open-air laundry where traditional dhobis meticulously wash and press linens, showcasing a remarkable slice of history.

The itinerary also includes a tour of Fort Bombay and Gandhi's House, a poignant museum dedicated to the legacy of this inspirational leader. Weather permitting, take a short cruise from the Gateway of India to the lush Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, explore an awe-inspiring cave complex dating back to the 3rd to 5th centuries, dedicated to Lord Shiva, a revered Hindu deity.

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at the renowned Trishna restaurant, where you can savour culinary excellence amidst Mumbai's vibrant atmosphere. As part of the tour program, guests will also have time to independently explore Mumbai's many attractions or browse its bustling local markets

Overnight stay at the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Hotel, Mumbai*.  

*
Guests staying in Deluxe Class will be accommodated in the Tower Wing, while those in the Presidential Suite will reside in the prestigious Palace Wing.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mumbai
Elephanta Island

Day 15 Mumbai

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

Why not extend your stay in Mumbai to explore at your leisure? Please contact us for hotel options and rates.

Breakfast

Accommodation

Deccan Odyssey

Upgrade available

To travel aboard the Deccan Odyssey is to experience the finest traditions of rail travel in a train specifically built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller.

DELUXE CLASS

The Deccan Odyssey's Deluxe Class cabins provide a luxurious and comfortable experience, fully air-conditioned and designed to accommodate 2-3 guests. These elegant cabins feature either twin or double beds and come with an en-suite bathroom complete with a separate shower. Additional amenities include a hairdryer and complimentary tea, coffee, and mineral water, ensuring a refined journey aboard this private luxury train. 

Deluxe Class (Twin)
Deluxe Class (Double)

 

Room Upgrades

Presidential Suite

The Deccan Odyssey's Presidential Suite provides a luxurious stay, fully air-conditioned and designed to accommdate 2-3 guests. Each cabin features a separate sitting room and two bathrooms. Guests staying in the Presidential Suite enjoy the added luxury of a private guide and chauffeured car service at many of the destinations on the itinerary. Additionally, they benefit from complimentary drinks from the Bar Lounge Car, laundry service, and room upgrades to the next available category at the hotels included in the itinerary.

  • Double bedroom
  • Separate lounge / seating area with writing desk
  • Additional sofa bed available in lounge
  • Two en-suite bathrooms with separate shower
  • Hairdryer
  • DVD player and television screen
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water in cabin
Presidential Suite

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Additional information

  • The Bar Lounge Car: offers a well-stocked bar offering the perfect surroundings for a quiet drink with your fellow passengers.
  • There is also dedicated spa car where passengers can enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage; work out in the gym; visit the on board hairdressing salon; or enjoy the heat of the sauna while the train is underway. Alternatively, you can utilise the facilities in the Reception Car which has a library and reading area, and a fully-equipped business centre.
  • The Deccan Odyssey includes two splendid restaurant cars, offering a wonderful variety of international cuisine. Prepared and served with the highest attention to detail, the Indian and international food offered here is to the highest culinary standard. Traditionally decorated, these beautifully designed cars offer a superb and relaxed setting in which to enjoy your meals and watch India’s remarkable scenery unfold

2025 departure: 

  • 17 Feb - 03 Mar 2025 

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package

FAQs

Who are Entire Travel Group?

Welcome to Entire Travel Group. We offer exceptional travel experiences across our extensive range of Entire Holiday Packages, Entire Group Journeys, Entire Rail Journeys, and Entire Cruise Journeys. With our industry-leading Peace of Mind Booking Plan, you can Book Now with flexibility and confidence.

Entire Travel Group is celebrating over 50 years of passionately delivering unique and memorable travel experiences. We are an Australian, family-owned, award-winning business with a friendly team ready to match your expectations to the perfect holiday experience.

Entire Travel Group used to be known by the individual brands shown in the footer of the website. The company has not changed, but we have amalgamated under one brand - Entire Travel Group.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

Is Entire Travel Group Australian owned and operated?

Entire Travel Group is proudly Australian family owned and operated and as it stands today represents 50 years of experience, progress, and evolution. We proudly support the community with our long-term commitment to many important charity organisations. We were awarded the best operator in our class at the most recent National Travel Industry Awards.

Is Entire Travel Group industry accredited?

Entire Travel Group is both ATAS and CATO Accredited. ATAS is actively administered by the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA). The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) is the trade association representing the land supply sector of the Australian Travel Industry.

Does Entire Travel Group have industry awards?

Entire Travel Group was honoured at the 2023 National Travel Industry Awards with Most Oustanding Wholesaler - Product / Service.

As our team works tirelessly to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, it was exciting to have this acknowledged with the highest recognition. The award is also a testament to the quality of our partners around the globe, and we take this opportunity to thank them for their tremendous support of our customers.

Are the Entire Travel Group holiday packages exclusive?

In some cases, we are the sole representative in Australia for the overseas travel operator. In other circumstances the product developed has been exclusively built for Entire Travel Group and can’t be found elsewhere.

What’s unique about Entire Travel Group Holiday Packages?

  • They are not group tours with set departures - they are pre-designed, purpose built, independent holiday packages full of unique and memorable experiences.
  • Our holiday packages have been exclusively built for us in collaboration with our handpicked suppliers, who also offer full on-ground support for the clients.
  • We are offering unique travel experiences which cannot be found elsewhere.
  • Many packages include our “Freedom of Choice” options which allow you to tailor the holiday experience. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.
  • They include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan.
  • A wide selection of our packages are compliant with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Covid Safe Travels.

Our motto for Independent Holiday Packages is start your holiday when and with who you want!

Our Independent Holiday Packages are NOT group tours with set departure dates. Group Tours have specific set departure dates, and of course, you are travelling with unknown passengers in a coach. These tours are great for certain travellers and there are many reputable tour operators providing a wide range of options around the world.

At Entire Travel Group, our focus is Independent Holiday Packages. Available daily, they are pre-designed, purpose built, packaged itineraries full of memorable experiences delivered by our hand-picked local partners.

Our holidays suit every demographic, from couples to singles, to retirees to families and everyone else in between.

Why travel with Entire Travel Group?

Of Entire Travel Group's attributes, we have settled on "When Experience Matters" as the quality we believe adds the most value to our customers. We have the experience to ensure your itinerary makes the dream holiday possible. Our continually enhanced technology allows our team to provide a quality customer service experience, and our partnerships with outstanding operators ensure we are confident of the on-ground experience for our customers.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

How does the Peace of Mind Booking Plan work?

Our Peace of Mind Booking Plan allows you to book with confidence in the new international travel environment. With low deposits, a cooling off period and a flexibility period where you can cancel and rebook later, we really do have you covered.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

Is there a cooling-off period?

Look for packages with our Peace of Mind Booking Plan logo on the website.

  • We understand that occasionally plans may change, so we give you the confidence to proceed with a cooling off period.
  • You may cancel for any reason within 7 days, where you will receive a 100% refund of your $100 per person deposit.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

What is Freedom of Choice?

At Entire Travel Group we understand that our customers have their own personal tastes and interests - so throughout our packages look for “Freedom of Choice” which gives you the ability to tailor your holiday from the various experiences offered on selected days. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.

The Freedom of Choice options are included in the package price, and the price remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days in the itinerary.

  • Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day in the itinerary.
  • The price of the package remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

For more details please visit - Freedom of Choice | Entire Travel Group

What is Book Now?

Book Now offers you the ability to make a reservation on our website for Holiday Packages that include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan. But it’s not just a static offer – you have complete flexibility from travel dates, passenger numbers, single supplements, room upgrades, optional extras, flexible booking terms and more.

  • Our team will contact our overseas suppliers and confirm all arrangements.
  • A Confirmation from our reservation system will be sent in the coming days.
  • The Booking Number on this confirmation supersedes the website reference.

What forms of payment can be used at Entire Travel Group?

  • To confirm a booking using our on-line Book Now process, a credit card must be used to pay the refundable deposit.
  • For additional payments on the booking, Entire Travel Group supports bank transfer, credit card, TravelPay B2B, PaymentGate.
  • For further details please visit our Payments page.

How secure is the Entire Travel Group's on-line payment portal?

  • Entire Travel Group have partnered with TravelPay to ensure secure on-line credit card payments.
  • TravelPay is a level 1 PCI DSS compliant, which gives you peace of mind that your payment card data is in safe hands.
  • Entire Travel Group does not store any credit card information.

For more details please visit - Security and Compliance - TravelPay

Can you book my international airfares?

On some Islands Holiday Packages (e.g. Fiji), it is practical to include flights, so where we have done this it is indicated by the plane icon.

However, on the majority of our Holiday Packages, we do not include international flights.

We found that many customers may prefer to:

  • Travel on a specific airline of their choice
  • Have the flexibility to book flights with Frequent Flyer points
  • Select flight dates that may be different to our Holiday Package start/end dates
  • Use a Travel Credit already held with the airline
  • Use their travel agent for this service

We are able to assist with flights on any Holiday Package, so please just notify us during the Book Now process or contact our team.

Should I take travel insurance?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. During the Book Now process please confirm you require assistance, and our team will be in contact with you.

What should I do before travelling?

Before you travel it is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate documentation including visas. If you are travelling on a passport other than Australian or New Zealand, you will require a permit to re-enter Australia. It is your responsibility as the traveller and/or travel booker to meet all government entry requirements.

For more information please visit - Before you travel | Entire Travel Group

How does a Travel Agent make a booking?

Please visit the Entire Travel Group's Agent Portal. We are here to support our industry partners with a range of informative updates, marketing collateral for campaigns and a reward & recognition program.

How do I start a Booking?

  • On any page that has Book Now simply follow the booking process.
  • You must select the Travel Agent tick box and provide correct details.
  • To confirm a booking only the refundable deposit is required.
  • An agency credit card must be used for this initial payment.

How do I contact Entire Travel Group?

For more information please visit - Contact us | Entire Travel Group

When experience matters
INDUSTRY ACCREDITED
AWARD WINNING
TRAVEL SUPPORT
50 YEARS EXPERIENCE
HANDPICKED SUPPLIERS
UNRIVALLED EXPERIENCES