A train imagined twenty years ago
In 2001, the Indian Railways, the equivalent of the Indian SNCF, and the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, an agency responsible for promoting tourism, imagined the Deccan Odyssey to explore the plateau that gives its name to the train, east of Mumbai, in central India. Specifications ? The services of a 5-star hotel on board to compete with the most legendary trains, such as the Orient-Express. On the rails since 2004, the luxurious Indian convoy takes its passengers to discover the natural, historical and cultural wonders of Maharashtra, the third largest state in the country and the second most populous! A territory, however, little known to tourists, who often prefer Kerala.
A palace on rails
Nicknamed The Blue Limousine on Rolling Wheels, the Deccan Odyssey can accommodate eighty passengers. Eleven of its twenty-one deep blue wagons, enhanced with red and gold bands, house two or four cabins, the decoration of which evokes the royal colors of the various dynasties of Maharashtra. In this setting with precious woodwork and luxurious and comfortable fabrics, we let ourselves be pampered by attentive staff. The train has no shortage of other attractions, with two dining cars that serve traditional Indian dishes such as the nourishing vegetarian thali, an assortment of vegetables cooked with rice and bread, to be enjoyed according to custom: without cutlery.
The splendours of the Marathi Empire
Daily excursions provide insight into the rich history of Maharashtra. From the end of the 17th century until the beginning of the 19th century, the Marathi Empire dominated the region. In Kolhapur, the former imperial capital, one can visit temples and palaces (such as the Shalini Palace), some of which still serve as residences for descendants of the Maharajas and house art collections. Visits are included in the price … naturally high: just over 9,000 euros for two people for a week in a double cabin.
In the skin of an Indian prince
Completely renovated in 2017, the interior of the Deccan Odyssey has nothing to envy to the imperial cars once used by the Maharajas for travel. Among the unique services offered on board, we go to the spa car for an Ayurvedic massage, a sacred practice in India to tone and relax both body and mind. But it is also outside that the princely experience continues. Each arrival at the station is an event. Dancers in traditional outfits in bright colors greet passengers with music as they get off the train. And for even more magic, tables can be specially set in majestic places, royal courtyards of ancient fortresses or palaces.
Stopover at the Ellora Caves
Among the six itineraries proposed, departing from Mumbai or New Delhi, three offer to discover the extraordinary sites of Maharashtra. Starting with the remarkable caves of Aurangabad. The archaeological site of Ellora, classified Unesco World Heritage, is another essential stopover, with its 34 temples and monasteries carved into the rock between the 5th and 10th centuries. Since its launch, the Deccan Odyssey has however opened up to more touristy destinations and the circuits now allow access to the beaches of the State of Goa or the temples of Hampi, in Karnataka.
Article published in the issue Femme Actuelle Jeux Voyages n ° 45 February-March 2021
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