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Inspirational India - The Deccan Odyssey and Beyond

From £9,999
Duration 17 Days
Departures from: Oct 2025 - Mar 2026
Book now
From £9,999
Duration 17 Days
Departures from: Oct 2025 - Mar 2026

Tour Overview

The ultimate way to explore India's Golden Triangle, Rajasthan, Amritsar and Shimla. We fly to Delhi, where we will start our explorations with a tour of New and Old Delhi, before joining the incredible luxury heritage train - Deccan Odyssey. Our 2025 departure is exclusively chartered for Just You in celebration of our 25th anniversary! We stay on board for 7 nights, and en-route experience Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Udaipur and Ellora Caves, its the perfect way to tour without packing and unpacking. We end in Mumbai, India's largest and most vibrant city, home of Bollywood and much more, then travel onto Amritsar to see the Golden Temple by night and day and lastly explore the hill station resort of Shimla.

  • meals included tour All Breakfasts
  • classic touring holiday Classic Touring
  • Scenic Rail icon Scenic Rail

Your Holiday Includes

  • Just You Holiday Director as your host
  • Return flights from London
  • Use of an airport lounge in the UK
  • 8 nights in 5 star hotels, 7 nights on a luxury heritage train and 1 night in flight
  • A guaranteed twin or double room of your own
  • 39 meals: 15 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 15 dinners including welcome and farewell dinner
  • Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

Included Holiday Highlights

  • 7-day luxury train journey on the Deccan Odyssey
  • Tour of Delhi
  • Cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi
  • Iconic Taj Mahal
  • Agra Fort
  • Ranthambore village walk
  • Jungle safari in search of tigers
  • Udaipur tour, City Palace and boat on Lake Pichola
  • Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Jami Masjid and Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
  • The forts and palaces of Jaipur
  • Ellora Caves
  • Mumbai - Prince of Wales Museum and Kala Ghoda Chowk walk
  • City tour of Mumbai
  • Evening Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple
  • Amritsar, the Golden Temple and Jaliawala Bagh
  • Toy train to Shimla
  • Sightseeing tour of Shimla

Itinerary

Day 1 UK - Delhi

We will depart on our flight to Delhi.

Day 2 Delhi

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

Day 3 Deccan Odyssey

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

Day 4 Deccan Odyssey Agra

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

Day 5 Deccan Odyssey Ranthambore

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

Day 6 Deccan Odyssey Jaipur

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

Day 7 Deccan Odyssey Udaipur

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

Day 8 Deccan Odyssey Vadodara

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

Day 9 Deccan Odyssey Ellora Caves

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

Day 10 Mumbai

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

Day 11 Mumbai - Amritsar

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

Day 12 Amritsar

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

Day 13 Amritsar - Shimla

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

Day 14 Shimla

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

Day 15 Shimla

Today is free for you to explore Shimla as you wish.

Meals included: B,D

Day 16 Shimla - Delhi

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

Day 17 Delhi - UK

Today we will fly back to the UK, arriving back the same day.

Meals included: B

Additional Information

Your itinerary for 2026 departure will operate in a slightly different order due to changes of Indian railway routing. All inclusions will remain the same and after spending a day in Delhi you will travel to Ranthambore National Park before visiting Agra. You will also drive from Amritsar to Barog to board the famous toy train to Shimla.

On board The Deccan Odyssey you will have an en-suite cabin of your own with air-conditioning. Each coach of the train has just four cabins.
You could choose to make your journey onboard the Deccan Odyssey even more special, upgrading to one of the two suites on board for a supplement price of £6000 for the 7 night journey.

Accommodation (as specified or similar)

ITC Maurya

The hotel ITC Maurya, located in New Delhi, has been acknowledged as a landmark in itself and is well known for excellent service. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, garden and bar.

The hotel ITC Maurya, located in New Delhi, has been acknowledged as a landmark in itself and is well known for excellent service. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, garden and bar.

Deccan Odyssey

Step into a realm of romance and royalty as you embark on an enchanting voyage aboard India's most lavish train, The Deccan Odyssey. Onboard, indulge in grandeur, impeccable service and a nostalgic nod to yesteryears. The Deccan Odyssey offers five star luxury to passengers in a centrally air-conditioned train. Onboard facilities include a dining car, saloon, bar, lounge, mini gymnasium, conference car and Ayurvedic spa. Embark on the Deccan Odyssey, hailed as one of Asia's finest luxury trains, and relish every moment of this unforgettable journey. Your deluxe cabin features wood panelling and picture windows creating a cosy space to relax, take in the views and to sleep well. Cabins have twin beds, your own private en-suite, plus a drop down table, chair and wardrobe space. For the ultimate Deccan Odyssey experience you could choose to upgrade to one of the two Presidential Suites on board for £6000 per stay. There are just two suites in a whole carriage and each features a double bed and separate living area with sofa, table and chair. Your personal butler will be on hand to attend to your needs, serving meals and drinks to your suite.

Step into a realm of romance and royalty as you embark on an enchanting voyage aboard India's most lavish train, The Deccan Odyssey. Onboard, indulge in grandeur, impeccable service and a nostalgic nod to yesteryears. The Deccan Odyssey offers five star luxury to passengers in a centrally air-conditioned train. Onboard facilities include a dining car, saloon, bar, lounge, mini gymnasium, conference car and Ayurvedic spa. Embark on the Deccan Odyssey, hailed as one of Asia's finest luxury trains, and relish every moment of this unforgettable journey. Your deluxe cabin features wood panelling and picture windows creating a cosy space to relax, take in the views and to sleep well. Cabins have twin beds, your own private en-suite, plus a drop down table, chair and wardrobe space. For the ultimate Deccan Odyssey experience you could choose to upgrade to one of the two Presidential Suites on board for £6000 per stay. There are just two suites in a whole carriage and each features a double bed and separate living area with sofa, table and chair. Your personal butler will be on hand to attend to your needs, serving meals and drinks to your suite.

Trident Nariman - Mumbai

The 5-star Trident Nariman Point is situated in the heart of Mumbai.

Hotel facilities include a selection of restaurants, bar, spa and a swimming pool. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning and a TV.

The 5-star Trident Nariman Point is situated in the heart of Mumbai.

Hotel facilities include a selection of restaurants, bar, spa and a swimming pool. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning and a TV.

Hyatt Amritsar

The Hyatt Amritsar is a 5 star hotel located around 4km from the Golden Temple. Facilities include an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar. Guestrooms have air-conditioning, tv and en-suite.

The Hyatt Amritsar is a 5 star hotel located around 4km from the Golden Temple. Facilities include an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar. Guestrooms have air-conditioning, tv and en-suite.

Oberoi Cecil Shimla

The Oberoi Cecil is set in Shimla in the Himalayan Mountains and is one of the best five star hotels in the area. Styled with tradition and heritage in mind, the hotel is situated at the end of the famous mall and an ideal base to explore. Facilities here include an indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, restaurant and bar. Guestrooms have air-conditioning and tea/coffee making facilities.

The Oberoi Cecil is set in Shimla in the Himalayan Mountains and is one of the best five star hotels in the area. Styled with tradition and heritage in mind, the hotel is situated at the end of the famous mall and an ideal base to explore. Facilities here include an indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, restaurant and bar. Guestrooms have air-conditioning and tea/coffee making facilities.

ITC Maurya

The hotel ITC Maurya, located in New Delhi, has been acknowledged as a landmark in itself and is well known for excellent service. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, garden and bar.

The hotel ITC Maurya, located in New Delhi, has been acknowledged as a landmark in itself and is well known for excellent service. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, restaurant, garden and bar.

Further Information

Deposit information

When you book a holiday, you will be asked to pay a deposit, this will be made clear at the time of booking. In most cases we will charge the following deposit amount;

  • UK Holidays - £150 per person
  • European Holidays - £200 Per person
  • Worldwide Holidays - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater

On some holidays we may charge a slightly higher deposit, to cover any costs we have to pay immediately to secure your booking with our suppliers. This will be made clear at the time of booking.

If you choose a tour that is within 84 days of departure you will need to pay the full balance when you book.

Our cancellation policy

If you decide to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us (or your travel agent) in writing, as soon as possible. Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below.

  • More than 75 days before departure - Loss of deposit only
  • 43 - 74 days - 50% of tour price
  • 29 - 42 days - 75% of tour price
  • 15 - 28 days - 90% of tour price
  • Day of Departure - 14 days - 100% of tour price

Our full cancellation policy can be found in our booking terms and conditions, section 8.

How do I find out Entry and Health Requirements for my holiday?

We have partnered with Sherpa, an on-line self service tool that allows you to search up-to-date information regarding travel entry requirements for all countries and also allows you to apply for eVisas or eTAs via their on-line portal. Just click on this link to find out more – Travel requirement & Visa Service.

You can also refer to the Foreign Travel Advice section on the gov.uk website: Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Click on your destination and then click on 'Entry Requirements'. For Health Requirements, the Department of Health also offers travellers health advice on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, click on country information to locate your destination.

It is important to remember that passport, visa and health requirements can change before departure; therefore, we recommend you regularly familiarise yourself with the latest requirements before you travel. If you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements, we are unable to accept any responsibility.

For some destinations, it is not always discernable that a visa is required for entry at the border.  For example, for some customers, to travel to the United States, an ESTA may be required. For Canada, an ETA and to India, an e-visa may be needed. Please do check your requirements to avoid any unnecessary cost and delays.

 

*Please click here to view the special booking conditions that apply for this tour