The Deccan Odyssey train, known for its luxurious journeys, is set to resume operations on September 23, departing from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. After a hiatus of nearly five years, the train has undergone renovations and added new features and routes.
Passengers looking to experience the opulent train journey will have to pay Rs 6 lakh for a seven-night stay, according to Shraddha Joshi Sharma, Managing Director of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC).
The train now offers modern amenities such as intercom and Wi-Fi facilities, a music system, comfortable furniture, beds, and air conditioning in its 21 coaches. Each coach consists of four deluxe cabins, while the two presidential suites offer even more luxurious accommodations.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, the Deccan Odyssey aims to provide a “five-star hotel” experience on wheels. The coaches not only feature luxurious accommodations but also house a conference hall, dining room, health spa, bar, staff quarters, and storage rooms. In terms of capacity, the train can accommodate up to 90 passengers and 34 crew members.
Sharma highlighted some of the new additions and improvements on the train. These include fire-resistant curtains and paints, along with an enhanced fire-fighting system. The train has also installed bio tanks to ensure that toilet waste does not flow onto the tracks. Additionally, new kitchens equipped with induction systems have been added for improved safety and efficiency.
The Deccan Odyssey is one of the five prestigious royal trains in India, along with the Golden Chariot, Maharajas’ Express, Palace on Wheels, and Mahaparinirvan Express. To cater to the growing demand, the train has expanded its list of destinations, now including Delhi and Varanasi. Sharma emphasized that the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation has already received bookings for the train until March.
The MTDC has appointed an operator to manage the project comprehensively. The operator is responsible for coordinating tours within Maharashtra as well as other premium tourist destinations across India.
The Deccan Odyssey was constructed in 2003 at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, with approvals from the central and state governments. In 2004, then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee inaugurated the train. The primary objective of the Deccan Odyssey luxury train is to showcase Maharashtra’s tourist destinations to both domestic and international tourists while promoting the state’s rich culture and art.
For the upcoming year, the train has organized a series of tours, including the Maharashtra Splendor, Indian Sojan, Indian Odyssey, Heritage Odyssey, Culture Odyssey, and Maharashtra Wild Trail. These tours offer unique experiences, covering various destinations such as Nashik, Ellora Cave, Ajanta Caves, Kolhapur, Goa, Sindhudurg, Vadodara, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Agra, Jaipur, and more.
The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation has also expressed plans to promote “responsible tourism” by seeking permission to replace the current diesel engines with electric ones.
With its luxurious offerings and exciting itineraries, the Deccan Odyssey is set to captivate travelers and provide an unforgettable journey through some of India’s most captivating destinations.
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