Inspirational India - The Deccan Odyssey and Beyond

  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • What's Included
  • FAQ
  • Dates

Embark on an unforgettable journey through India with the "Inspirational India - The Deccan Odyssey and Beyond" tour. This 16-day adventure begins in Mumbai, where you'll explore the city's vibrant culture before boarding the luxurious Deccan Odyssey train for a 7-night journey through India's most iconic destinations. Marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra, experience a thrilling jungle safari in Ranthambore, and explore the palaces of Jaipur. Discover the serene beauty of Udaipur, the historical treasures of Vadodara, and the ancient Ellora Caves. Continue to Amritsar to witness the Golden Temple's Palki Ceremony, and enjoy a scenic toy train ride to Shimla. Conclude your tour with a visit to Delhi, experiencing the city's rich history and vibrant markets. With 8 nights in 5-star hotels, 39 meals, and a dedicated holiday director, this tour promises an immersive and luxurious exploration of India's diverse landscapes and cultures.

Highlights
  • 7-day luxury train journey on the Deccan Odyssey
  • Mumbai - Prince of Wales Museum and Kala Ghoda Chowk walk
  • Udaipur tour, City Palace and boat on Lake Pichola
  • The 'Blue City' of Jodhpur
  • Iconic Taj Mahal
  • Jungle safari in search of tigers at Ranthambore National Park
  • Evening Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple in Amritsar
  • Toy train to Shimla
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a 7-day journey on the Deccan Odyssey luxury train, complemented by flights and scenic drives, including a memorable toy train ride to Shimla.
Accommodation
Experience luxury with 8 nights in 5-star hotels and 7 nights aboard the opulent Deccan Odyssey train, offering a blend of heritage and modern comfort.
International Flights
International flights to and from India are not included.
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and tips are not included.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into India are not included.
Destinations
  • Asia
  • India
  • Indian Subcontinent
Tour Types
  • Rail Tours
  • Wildlife Tours
  • Cultural
  • Sightseeing
  • Safari Tours
  • Luxury

Location: Mumbai, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Kala Ghoda

Make your own way to Mumbai this morning. Later this afternoon we will explore some of the sites of this city. We will visit 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. This evening we will gather together for our welcome dinner.

Accommodation Name: ITC Maurya

Meals: Dinner

Location: Delhi, Gandhi's House, Humayun's Tomb, Old Delhi, Agra

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.

Accommodation Name: Deccan Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Agra, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort

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.

Accommodation Name: Deccan Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambore National Park

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. <br/>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.

Accommodation Name: Deccan Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: 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.

Accommodation Name: Deccan Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Udaipur, City Palace, Udaipur, Crystal Gallery, Udaipur, Lake Pichola, 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.

Accommodation Name: Deccan Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Vadodara, Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Jama Masjid, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, Laxmi Vilas Palace

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.

Accommodation Name: Deccan Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Aurangabad, 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.

Accommodation Name: Deccan Odyssey

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Mumbai, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Kala Ghoda Chowk

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.

Accommodation Name: Trident Nariman - Mumbai

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Mumbai, Amritsar, Golden Temple

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.

Accommodation Name: Hyatt Amritsar

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Location: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, 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.

Accommodation Name: Hyatt Amritsar

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Location: Amritsar, Kandaghat, 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.

Accommodation Name: Oberoi Cecil Shimla

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Location: Shimla, Viceregal Lodge, Shimla, Gaiety Theatre, Shimla, Scandal Point, Shimla, Mall Road, 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.

Accommodation Name: Oberoi Cecil Shimla

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Location: Shimla

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

Accommodation Name: Oberoi Cecil Shimla

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Location: Shimla, Chandigarh, 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.

Accommodation Name: ITC Maurya

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Location: Delhi

Today we will come to the end of our tour, make your own way homewards.

Meals: Breakfast

Included
  • Luxury Train Journey
    -7-day luxury train journey on the Deccan Odyssey.
  • City Tours
    -City tours of Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra, Ranthambore, Amritsar, Shimla, and Delhi.
  • Cultural Experiences
    -Visits to the Prince of Wales Museum, Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Jami Masjid, Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, Mehrangarh Fort, and the Golden Temple.
  • Iconic Landmarks
    -Visits to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Ranthambore National Park.
  • Unique Experiences
    -Jungle safari in search of tigers, evening Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple, and a toy train ride to Shimla.
  • Guided Tours
    -Just You Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide included.
  • Guaranteed Single Room
    -Your own room guaranteed with no single supplement.

Not Included
  • International Flights
    -International flights to and from India are not included.
  • Personal Expenses
    -Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and tips are not included.
  • Travel Insurance
    -Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
  • Visa Fees
    -Visa fees for entry into India are not included.
A few years ago we set up Just You Cares, a programme that gives back to some of the places we love. We have always believed in taking care of the communities we visit, and have taken the time to really get to know the local people and understand the challenges they face. Some of our holidays give our Customers the chance to see how the money from their trips has been spent.
Of course, you’ll always have a twin or double room all to yourself. It’s great to have that space to relax and reflect at the end of the day. In some hotels you can also pay a little extra to upgrade for more space or a lovely sea view.
No, given the nature of our holidays, it is not possible to join the tour once it has departed.
Just You is exclusively for solo travellers, every tour includes a twin or double room of your own, with no single supplement.
Just You has been operating solo holidays for more than 15 years.
Yes, there is a Just You Holiday Director and a Specialist Local Guide accompanying the tour.
In Udaipur, the tour includes a visit to the City Palace and Crystal Gallery, a boat ride on Lake Pichola, and an optional walk through the Old City.
During the visit to Ranthambore National Park, you can expect a village walk and a jungle safari in search of tigers and other wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and various bird species.
Once you book, you will receive a confirmation invoice within 7 days, prior to departure, we will send you further information to help prepare for your trip.
At Just You, we are committed to operating our business operations responsibly, with integrity and always act ethically in all our business dealings and relationships. We are committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure slavery and human trafficking does not take place in our own business or in any of our supply chains
If we can accommodate a change in date - we will always do our best to help you. Just pick up the phone and ask one of our friendly advisors - just make sure you have your booking number to hand.
The visit to the Ellora Caves includes exploring the World Heritage site known for its cave-temple architecture, with 34 rock-cut shrines representing Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu art.
The highlight of the visit to Agra is the breathtaking views of the iconic Taj Mahal and a visit to Agra Fort.
Typically, our customers are solo travellers in their 40s, 50s and 60s, but it’s quite possible you could meet 20-year-olds or 70-year-olds (or anyone in between)... After all, age is just a number!
The tour package includes 39 meals: 15 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 15 dinners.
We have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world. The 'Safe Travels' stamp provides you, with assurance and peace of mind that we have implemented enhanced health and hygiene prprotocols on all holidays.
The tour includes 8 nights in 5-star hotels and 7 nights on a luxury heritage train, the Deccan Odyssey.
The tour includes a luxury train journey on the Deccan Odyssey, a cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi, a jungle safari in Ranthambore, a toy train ride to Shimla, and the Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple.
All the people in your group will be solo travellers and will share your sense of adventure and passion for travel. There’s usually a good mix of ages too, so you’ll meet a variety of solo travellers who have more, or in some cases less, life experience. We find the overall mix of people really adds to the whole experience and there are certainly plenty of l
We find there’s always a social element to dining, so you’ll never eat alone, unless you want to! Every holiday includes a welcome get-together, all breakfasts and many other meals. When a meal is not included we find travellers meet and dine together.
Yes, and all of our accommodation providers will be working to the very highest standards of hygiene – you already always enjoy a private room of your own on all of our trips, all of our partners will be guided by local government operational standards of hygiene and the new protocols we have issued to them.

You will have the option to book your own flights independently with the operator.

Dates Price Availability
31-Oct-2025
for 0 Nights
Single £9449.00
13-Mar-2026
for 0 Nights
Single £9949.00

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This tour is operated by Just You

16 days from £9449 pp exc.flights; Enquire
Start:Mumbai, India
Finish:Delhi, India
Group size:15 - 27
Suitable for: 18-99
Physical rating:Medium
Tour operated in: English
Tour Reference: SLIDO_landonly
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