Deccan Odyssey : A Window to India’s Culture and Heritage

Deccan Odyssey is the oldest in the fleet of luxury train in India subsequent only to the famous Palace on Wheels. A joint endeavor of the Maharashtra Tourism and Development Corporation and the Indian Railways, Deccan Odyssey is designed to promote the culture and heritage of Maharashtra and Goa.

During the 8 days and 7 night’s journey, Deccan Odyssey train unfolds the myriad colors of Deccan region with World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora, sea fortress at Sindhugarh, rustic charm of Old Goa, pristine natural beauty of Konkan coast, Nashik- Wine Capital of India and indigenous art and craft galore at Kolhapur. Here are those seven spectacular destinations that will familiarize you with the rich culture and heritage of India during this luxury rail journey. 

Mumbai – The Colonial Paradise

Mumbai - A Colonial Paradies

Mumbai is a colonial paradise which came into the possession of English King Charles II as part of Portuguese Princess Catherine’s dowry whom he married in 1661. The British impact on the city is still evident in its colonial monuments such as Gateway of India, Princes of Wales Museum, Victoria Terminus and other colonial era buildings. 

Sindhugarh  - The Sea Fortress Afloat

Sindhugarh  - The Sea Fortress Afloat

Situated on the Konkan Coast, Sindhugarh is a fortress housed on an islet and speaks volumes about the glorious past of Marathas. The mighty sea fort was a strong naval base built by Maratha King Shivaji in 1664-67 AD. It is said that 2000 mounds of iron were used to erect the massive curtain wall and bastion. Within the fort premises, you will find a number of temples dedicated to Bhavani, Mahadeo, Jarimari, Mahapurush and various other Hindu deities. The beaches at Sindhugarh are much more pristine and serene unlike other commercialized beaches.

Goa - A Bucolic Retreat

Goa - A Bucolic Retreat

Goa is a hot-shot tourist destination famous all around the world for its intermingled beauty of sun, sand and surf. The Portuguese legacy of Goa is justly famous as is its palm-fringed beaches and thrilling nightlife. Old Goa was once compared to London and Lisbon back in 1500 and offers a bucolic retreat to the guests. The city is the repository of Goa’s Portuguese heritage which is manifested in various churches and cathedrals placed in this city. Basilica of Bom Jesus, the Cathedral Church, St. Augustine Church and the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi are some major attractions of Old Goa. 

Vasco - The Largest City of Goa

Vasco - The Largest City of Goa

Located on the western tip of Mormugao peninsula, Vasco was founded in 1543 and named after famous Portuguese explorer Vasco-Da-Gama. The largest city of Goa, Vasco revels in the fact that it is the only place in Goa which is well connected by rail, road, sea and air. Mormugao Port, Pilot Point, Bogmalo beach, Japanese Garden and Naval Aviation Museum are some major attractions of this city. 

Kolhapur - the fabled city

Kolhapur - the fabled city

Located on the banks of river Panchganga, Kolhapur is said to have established by a demon called Kolhasura who was later destroyed by Goddess Mahalakshmi to relieve the local populace.  Kolhapur was once a princely state of Marathas and houses several spectacular attractions which include Shalini Palace, New Palace, Mahalakshmi temple and Bhavani Mandap. Besides attractions, the city is also famous for Kolhapuri chappals, jewelry items, leather sandals and saris. 

Aurangabad - the city of the throne

Aurangabad - the city of the throne

Owing to its rapid growth and development, Aurangabad is regarded as one of the fastest growing cities in the world. The city was founded by Malik Amber in 1610 AD and named after Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The city is home to renowned World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora. Beside these World Heritage Sites, the myriad tourist attractions of Aurangabad includes Bibi ka Maqbara- a replica of Taj Mahal and Daulatabad Fort. 

Nashik - the abode of Gods

Nashik - the abode of Gods

According to the legend, Lord Rama stayed at Nashik along with Sita and Lakshman during his 14 year exile. The city cam under Mughal reign in 16th century and was renamed Gulshanabad, the city of gardens. It was during Peshwa rule when it got its present name. The city has its place in the tourist map, especially pilgrims due to the Kumbh Mela which held here once in every 12 years. Some attractions of this beautiful city are Gangapur Dam, Dudhsagar Fall, Pandav Caves, Bird sanctuary, Panchwati Ghat.