The Deccan Odyssey

Following the success of Rajasthan's luxury Palace on Wheels train, India introduced a Maharashtra counterpart, the Deccan Odyssey. Traveling first-class on Indian trains in the heyday of the British Raj could be a comfortable, lavish experience, with chefs and attendants taking care of the passengers' every need, in royal surroundings, as the train chugged through breathtaking countryside. The feeling is replicated aboard this train. The longest version of the trip takes you over seven nights and eight days down the Maharashtra coast to Goa before you swing upward to Pune, and to Ajanta, Ellora, and the vineyards of Nashik before returning to Mumbai. The train has several restaurants, lounges, and even a gym, but reservations are quite pricey, ranging from US$1,500 to US$11,500 depending on your choice of accommodations and the length of your journey. For more information, visit www.deccan-odyssey-india.com.