Day 01: Arrive Mumbai
Your voyage of discovery begins at Mumbai airport, where you will be met and transferred to the five-star Taj Mahal Hotel, conveniently located at ‘the Gateway of India’ for a luxurious two-night stay (meals today at your own arrangements).
Overnight: Taj Mahal, Mumbai (2 nights)

Day 02: Mumbai
This morning we take a short cruise to Elephanta Island, a lush island densely wooded with palm, mango and tamarind trees. The atmospheric and fascinating cave complex, which dates back to the 3rd-5th century, was designed to honor the life of Lord Shiva, one of the most auspicious Hindu gods and now a World Heritage Site. Marvel at the many statues and works of art dedicated to Lord Shiva. We return to Mumbai for lunch at the Khyber restaurant and in the afternoon you are free to explore Mumbai independently or visit one of the colorful local markets. In the evening a welcome drinks reception is followed by dinner at your hotel where you can get to know your fellow travelers who will share this remarkable Indian Odyssey. (B, L, D)

Day 03: Mumbai
The compelling city of Mumbai is rich in culture and history. Today we visit the ‘Dhobi Ghats’, an intriguing outdoor laundry. The dhobi is a traditional laundryman who collects your dirty linen, washes it and returns it neatly pressed. The Ghats are the laundries where they practice this historic tradition. Our tour then takes us in Fort Bombay and Gandhi’s House, now turned into a fascinating museum depicting his inspirational life. Lunch is served in a local restaurant. Mid–afternoon sees us boarding our private train, the Deccan Odyssey, a perfect way to experience the color, character and amazing diversity of India. Settle into your beautifully appointed cabin and enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of the Bar Car before experiencing fine Indian or western cuisine prepared by the Taj Hotel’s chefs.
Overnight: on board of private train (7 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 04: Mumbai / Udaipur
We spend leisurely morning onboard as the landscape and spirit of India unfolds before us. We then 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 awaits 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 Pichhola Lake, and visiting the medieval grandeur of City Palace. (B, L, D)

Day 05: Udaipur / Jaipur
With a breakfast arrival into the capital of Rajastan, the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur overwhelms the senses as we embrace its rich and colorful past. This morning we visit the Amber Fort and explore its breathtaking and ornate majesty, including the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. After lunch in a local restaurant, we continue our exploration with a tour of the Jantar Mantar Observatory, the imposing and vast City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This delicately stunning, yet enduring monument is constructed entirely of pink sandstone and was built in 1799 to allow royal ladies to discreetly observe everyday life. Finally, if time permits, we explore a famous fabric market before returning to our train to refresh ourselves. This evening we dine in the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 06: Jaipur / Delhi
One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant city. Our fascinating city tour takes us 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 238 ft (75 m) which dates from 1368. Tonight we enjoy dinner on board the train. (B, L, D)

Day 07: Delhi / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra
After breakfast, we visit the Wolrd Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. Known as a ‘ghost city’, this red sandstone town was abandoned due to lack of water in 1585. This afternoon our journey takes us to Agra Fort, a magnificent structure that dominates the skyline. Its red sandstone walls run for 2,5 km and contain many fairytale palaces and two beautifully preserved mosques. (B, L, D)

Day 08: Agra – Taj Mahal
Today is devoted to visiting the impossibly beautiful Taj Mahal, indisputably the most famous building in the world. Built in 1648 by Shah Jahan as a monument to his beloved wife, it took 22 years and 20,000 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. (B, L, D)

Day 09: Agra / Varanasi
Varanasi simply has to be experienced to be understood. Our early morning arrival at Varanasi, one of India’s most sacred places, offers us the opportunity to discover what is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the world. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, this cultural and religious centre, established between 3-5,000 years ago, is a focus for pilgrims who bathe in the sacred waters of Ganges. We are privileged to experience this ceremony before departing for a private river cruise. Our exploration of Varanasi is completed with a guided walk through the ancient streets of this remarkable city. (B, L, D)

Day 10: Varanasi / Darjeeling
Today we leave the Deccan Odyssey and embark on a spectacular journey to the hill of Darjeeling. We transfer either by bus (3-4 hours) on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), Toy Train, from Tindaria which takes about 6 hours. Traveling through awe-inspiring scenery we climb 7,400 feet to Ghum, the highest Indian railway station, where snow covered Kanchenchunga dominates the skyline, before dropping 600 feet into Darjeeling. Our locomotive zigzags and loops, gaining height to reach the cooler air of India’s most famous hill station. A packed lunch is served on the Darjeeling Train before arrival into colonial Darjeeling. We have dinner in the Hotel Windermere or Eglin, where we will stay for three nights.
Overnight: Windermere / Eglin, Darjeeling (3 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 11: Darjeeling
We awaken to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kanchenchunga and this morning we can ride the DHR up to Batasia Loop and Ghum, climbing 600 feet during its 7 km journey. The senses reel as we experience the chaotic nature of roadside life passing within inches of colorful shops, houses and enthralling monasteries. Our 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 center and an absorbing visit to the Himalayan Institute where we learn about some of the famous mountaineering expeditions. (B, L, D)