Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train to Resume Operations on September 23; Check ticket price and amenities
After a hiatus of nearly 3.5 years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the iconic luxury train service Deccan Odyssey is set to make its grand return. Operated by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), the train is slated to resume operations on September 23, 2023.
The Comeback Route and Itinerary
The first commercial journey of the revived Deccan Odyssey will embark on a seven-night and eight-day trip. Originating from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai, the train will traverse through various cities including Vadodara, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Agra, Sawai Madhopur, and finally, reach Delhi.
A special highlight of the itinerary is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ajanta Ellora Caves in Aurangabad during its return journey to Mumbai. The cost of this luxurious expedition has been pegged at Rs 6.5 lakh per person.
New Partnership and Business Model
MTDC has entered into a partnership with private operator Ebix for managing the train operations for the next five years. According to the contract, Ebix will pay Rs 1.64 crore in the first year, along with a revenue share of 2.5 percent to MTDC. “The revenue share percentage is likely to increase annually,” noted Shraddha Joshi Sharma, Managing Director of MTDC.
Enhanced Travel Experience and Upgrades
Deccan Odyssey is being re-launched with various refurbishments to enhance the travel experience. Initially operating with 16 coaches, plans are in place to expand the number to 21, based on demand. Each coach is designed to reflect a different royal era of Maharashtra, providing a glimpse into the elegant traveling style of the Maharajas from the bygone eras.
The world-renowned Taj Group of Hotels has also joined hands with Deccan Odyssey to offer five-star hotel facilities onboard, adding another layer of opulence to the journey.
Deccan Odyssey Amenities
The perfect touch of delicacy and royalty can be seen in every detail of the Deccan Odyssey. The state-of-the-art amenities available onboard this royal Indian train makes every day a unique experience for travellers. Facilities onboard Deccan Odyssey covers an array of services that include regal class cabins, multi-cuisines restaurants, a sitting lounge, high-tech conference car and a rejuvenating health spa. The signature of utmost comfort and pampering treatment, Deccan Odyssey facilities make you feel special even in the crowd.
Since its initiation, this luxury Indian train has refurbished its facilities and services from time to time so that a better experience can be shared with travellers every time. The introduction of more high-tech amenities in the later period made the journey more alluring. With the introduction of the Deccan Odyssey, a tour to Maharashtra on the rolling iron wheel gets more exciting and mesmerizing. For your perusal, the following is the summarized description of the facilities onboard the Deccan Odyssey.
Social Media Teasers and Preparations
In preparation for the train’s re-launch, MTDC has been actively teasing its audience through social media campaigns. Messages like, “Your longing for opulence hasn’t gone unnoticed, Your Majesty!” and “Prepare to be transported into a world of opulence,” are already setting the stage for the train’s highly-anticipated return.
Conclusion: A Resurgence of Luxury Train Tourism in India
With all necessary permissions from the Indian Railways in place, Deccan Odyssey joins the league of other luxury train services in India like the Palace On Wheels, Golden Chariot, and Maharajas’ Express. The train’s re-entry into operation is expected to provide tourists with a unique and lavish means of exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Maharashtra and northern India.
So, if you’re looking to experience a journey replete with luxury, grandeur, and heritage, keep an eye out for the Deccan Odyssey’s grand re-entrance onto the tracks.
