Indian Odyssey with Sri Lanka

Namaste and welcome to Delhi, India's fascinating capital city, a treasure trove of ancient culture and history. Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your luxury hotel. Relax and unwind before a special welcome dinner this evening.

This morning, visit the iconic Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Delhi's most celebrated historical landmarks. Continue to the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most prominent Sikh temples in Delhi. Witness the remarkable community kitchen that serves over 10,000 people daily, take part in this humbling tradition by assisting with the preparation of chapatti.

Later, awaken the senses with a rickshaw ride through the vibrant and bustling lanes of Old Delhi, then visit the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in Asia. Tonight, enjoy a special Signature Experience.

Signature Experience - Traditional Calligraphy Workshop Conclude the day at Bukhari Residence, where you will take part in a traditional calligraphy workshop in an intimate setting.

Signature Experience - Exclusive Bukhari Residence Dinner Tonight savour a specially curated dinner at the Bukhari Residence. The Bukhari family has served as the hereditary Shahi (royal) Imams of Jama Masjid since 1656, overseeing religious traditions and preserving the mosque's spiritual heritage.

This morning, enjoy your chosen Freedom of Choice activity or simply relax at your luxury hotel.

This evening transfer to the Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station and enjoy your Signature Experience - a seven-night rail journey through the heart of India on the opulent Deccan Odyssey.

• Freedom of Choice - Delhi by Dawn Delhi by Dawn is an immersive early-morning journey through the city's layers of faith, history, and everyday life. Beginning at the Yamuna Ghat with conversations on the river's spiritual role, continue to a cow shelter and learn about its cultural meaning and political links. Over tea, enter a 50-year-old akhada to meet wrestlers and discuss tradition and women's participation. Breakfast features Nahari or Aloo Puri while reflecting on Delhi's transformation. The morning ends with an optional Kabootar Baazi experience today.
• Freedom of Choice - Salam Baalak Walk This City Walk is a guided experience around New Delhi Railway Station and the Paharganj area, led by children who used to live on the streets and have now joined Salaam Baalak Trust. Through the walk, young guides share their lived experiences with honesty, dignity, and perspective.
• Freedom of Choice - Lodhi Legacy & Living Art Walk Explore Lodhi Colony, where history meets creativity. Discover the vibrant Lodhi Art District, showcasing world-renowned street murals, and stroll through Lodhi Garden, a historic garden-tomb complex offering a peaceful open space amid the city's bustle.

Signature Experience - Welcome Aboard the Deccan Odyssey This evening, board the Deccan Odyssey and be welcomed with a traditional Indian greeting and refreshing drink. Settle into your elegant private cabin as your rail journey begins, pairing timeless onboard luxury with immersive off‑train experiences that reveal India's rich cultural heritage.

Arrive in Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park and one of India's most important tiger conservation regions. This afternoon, set out on a thrilling safari through the park's core zones by private jeep, where, as the forest stirs to life, you may spot Royal Bengal tigers, marsh crocodiles, deer and a variety of birdlife in their natural habitat. Return to the Deccan Odyssey to unwind before dinner as your journey continues towards Agra.

Disembark the Deccan Odyssey and travel to Agra, where you'll visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, an enduring symbol of love built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. After lunch, explore the impressive Agra Fort, once the seat of Mughal power, including the Diwan-e-Am and the ornate royal pavilions. Later, discover the intricate art of pietra dura at Kalakriti, the delicate inlay technique that adorns the Taj Mahal, before returning to the train for dinner as your journey continues towards Jaipur.

Arrive in the 'Pink City' of Jaipur, set against the rugged Aravalli Hills and renowned for its grand palaces and storied past. Travel to the hilltop Amber Fort, where ornate halls, mirrored chambers and sweeping views over Maotha Lake reveal a rich blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Later, explore the City Palace, a living royal residence showcasing elegant courtyards, intricate gateways and fascinating museum collection. Return to the Deccan Odyssey and enjoy another delightful evening on board.

Today as the Deccan Odyssey rolls into Udaipur, admire the picturesque landscape of the Aravali hills. Disembark and visit the famous City Palace, the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, with its scalloped arches, fretted balconies, and cupolas, which also houses the spectacular Crystal Gallery. The tour of this magnificent city is completed with a boat cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. After lunch, discover the the Old City of Udaipur and explore its lively, busy and old-fashioned colourful bazar, which still retains local charm and feel. Return back to the train for a relaxed evening and dinner.

Arrive in Vadodara, capital of the Gaekwad dynasty, set along the seasonal Vishwamitri River. After breakfast, disembark to explore Champaner - Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site showcasing a striking blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture amid forested surrounds.

Return to the Deccan Odyssey for lunch before visiting the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum and the opulent Laxmi Vilas Palace, where you'll enjoy afternoon tea, regional delicacies and a traditional folk performance. Rejoin the train as your journey continues towards Aurangabad.

Enjoy a leisurely morning on board as the Deccan Odyssey arrives in Aurangabad. This afternoon, disembark for a scenic drive to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ellora Caves, where monumental rock-cut temples representing Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions are carved into basalt cliffs. After exploring this remarkable site, return to the train and savour your last night on board.

This morning arrive in to Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, where your journey aboard the Deccan Odyssey comes to an end. Visit the Victoria Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a spectacular example of Victorian Gothic architecture blended with Indian motifs. Its ornate façade, domes, and stained-glass windows make it one of Mumbai's most striking and busiest historic landmarks. Later, explore the Prince of Wales Museum, housed in an elegant Indo-Saracenic building and home to an impressive collection of artefacts tracing the subcontinent's rich history.

Check in to your luxury accommodation and indulge in dinner at one of the most renowned 5-star restaurants in Mumbai.

Start your day with a visit to the Gateway of India, an archway overlooking the Arabian Sea which provides the perfect photo opportunity. A speedboat ride across Mumbai Harbour brings you to Elephanta Island, home to the UNESCO-listed Elephanta Caves. As the city skyline recedes and the open water stretches ahead, the journey offers a striking perspective of Mumbai from the sea. On arrival, a short walk leads to the rock-cut cave complex carved in the 5th - 8th centuries. Inside, you explore monumental sculptures dedicated to Lord Shiva, including the celebrated Trimurti, which reveals the deity's creative, protective, and destructive forms.

After a delicious lunch visit Mumbai's cultural precinct, Kala Ghoda, which is known for its art galleries, boutiques, cafés, and heritage buildings. The rest of the day is for you to enjoy at leisure.

After a delicious breakfast, travel to the airport for your flight to Colombo. Upon arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel before spending an evening at leisure.

After breakfast, enjoy a visit to Number 11, the Geoffrey Bawa Residence, an architectural marvel which houses a private art and artefact collection of the late architect. Enjoy your Signature Experience while dining at the serene Gallery Café restaurant for lunch, which was the former office of Bawa. Return to your hotel for some time at leisure.

Later, set out on a gentle walking tour through Colombo's bustling heritage region. Stroll through the streets and hear the stories behind iconic buildings, before hopping in a tuk tuk to the lively Pettah Market. After the walking tour, delight in a cocktail-making session.

Tonight, savour a welcome dinner at the Ministry of Crab.

Signature Experience - Geoffrey Bawa Residence Meet with an expert for a talk on the architect Geoffrey Bawa, one of the most influential Asian architects of his generation and learn about his influence throughout Sri Lanka. His works include the Parliament Building of Sri Lanka, The Kandalama Hotel and Ruhuna University Campus.

After breakfast this morning, head towards Anuradhapura. On arrival at your hotel, Uga Ulagalla, indulge in a delicious lunch. Spend time settling into your accommodation before this evening's activity.

This evening, step into the gentle rhythm of nature with an evening walk at Uga Ulagalla, where the resort hums with nature. Home to over 120 bird species, along with monkeys, squirrels, deer, mongooses, and reptiles, the surroundings offer constant surprises. The leisurely hour-long walk winds through the estate and along the kumbuk-lined banks of the Wanamaduwa Tank, with chances to spot vibrant orioles, kingfishers, the brown fish owl, and local endemics such as the grey hornbill and the Ceylon jungle fowl, Sri Lanka's national bird.

After, return to the hotel and savour a three-course set menu dinner.

Today is set aside for an exploration of the World Heritage-listed ancient city of Anuradhapura. Visit the imposing dome-shaped stupas of Ruwanweliseya - believed to have been completed in 140BC - and Jethawanaramaya - one of the tallest structures of the ancient world. Next, admire the Samadhi Buddha Statue and see the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree often considered the world's oldest human-planted tree. Later, return to your hotel for an afternoon of leisure. This evening, enjoy your Signature Experience.

Signature Experience - Sri Lankan Cooking Demonstration Join your resort's head chef for a talk on spices and a cooking demonstration. Learn about the authentic flavours and delectable regional dishes for which Sri Lanka is known. Then, delight in a sumptuous range of Sri Lankan curries and condiments for dinner.

After breakfast, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa. Immerse yourself in the collection of archaeological monuments at this location and learn about the second kingdom of Sri Lanka. See the manmade reservoir, the famous Gal Viharaya with four impressive colossal statues of the Buddha and ruins of ancient palaces. Then, enjoy lunch at Priyamali Gedara before a special experience this evening.

Signature Experience - Cave Dinner at Heritance Kandalama Experience a one-of-a-kind meal at Heritance Kandalama with a signature Cave Dinner. Enjoy a memorable meal inside a captivating natural cave, historically used by ancient fishermen as a shelter. The perfect blend of history and nature awaits, offering an intimate and extraordinary setting for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Begin your day with a visit to climb the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, enjoy an international buffet lunch at Cinnamon Lodge. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting game drive at Minneriya National Park. Return to the hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure before a delightful dinner at your hotel.

Signature Experience - Sigiriya Rock Fortress After breakfast, walk to the top of the iconic World Heritage-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Stop to admire the colourful frescoes, ascend through the impressive Lion's Paw and stroll among the atmospheric ruins of this former citadel as the sun rises. The climb to the summit offers breathtaking views as you ascend the 200-metre-high rock boulder. Built by King Kassyapa I in the fifth century, Sigiriya served as a royal citadel for over 18 years. Upon reaching the top, explore the ruins of the royal palace, marvel at the astonishing feat of construction and soak in 360-degree panoramic views of the jungle and hills.

Signature Experience - Minneriya National Park This sanctuary, located in the North Central Province, is renowned for its population of Sri Lankan elephants. The park is also home to the endemic Purple-faced Langur and Toque Macaque monkeys. The highlight of Minneriya is the impressive Minneriya Tank, an ancient reservoir that draws wildlife, especially during the dry season between June and September. During this period, the reservoir attracts large herds of elephants, making it the site of the famous “Gathering,” where up to 300 elephants converge to drink and bathe - a truly unforgettable sight.

Drive to Dambulla to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. Dating back to the first century BC, this vast cave complex, now a rock temple, houses the largest collection of paintings in Sri Lanka and an impressive array of Buddha statues. As you explore, take in the serenity and well-preserved beauty of this sacred site.

Head towards Kandy, stopping en route for a lunch of authentic Sri Lankan dishes at the renowned Spice Garden in Matale. After the meal, embark on a short guided walk providing insight into Sri Lanka's spices and how they are used in traditional cooking.

On arrival in Kandy, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic known as Sri Dalada Maligawa. Located by Kandy Lake, this 16th-century temple is famous for housing the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as resident monks perform rituals to the backdrop of drums and the scent of lotus, jasmine, and incense. In the evening, transfer to your hotel, where you'll have pre-check-in room facilities.

This evening, indulge in a delectable five-course dinner. After, immerse yourself in the traditional music and ambience of an enchanting dance performance.

After breakfast, enjoy your Signature Experience at the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya. Next, proceed to the scenic central highlands. The journey to the tea country offers remarkable views of gushing waterfalls, vast tea terraces, authentic tea factories, and expansive vegetable fields. Arrive at the iconic Grand Hotel for high tea style lunch. A former home of a colonial governor, this historic property boasts impressive architectural design and significant heritage. Later, spend the rest of the evening at leisure until dinner is served.

Signature Experience - Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya Accompanied by an expert botanist, enjoy a captivating walk through the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, located in Kandy. With over 30 years of experience, be guided through the gardens, home to over 4,000 plant species. Hear fascinating stories of the garden's history, from its transformation in 1821 into a botanical garden to the ‘Grand Circle,' where world leaders have planted trees since 1875. As you stroll beneath the trees, the botanist will highlight features such as the bamboo collection, Palm Avenue, and the herbal plants. The most vibrant display is the orchids, with over 300 species in full bloom.

After breakfast, depart for Ella to visit the Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory for a special Signature Experience. Join a guided tour and hear about the process of tea making from leaf to cup as you stroll through lush tea plantations. Indulge in a tea tasting after the tour and have the opportunity to purchase tea. Enjoy Sri Lankan flavours at EKHO Ella for lunch before heading to Yala. After arriving at your hotel, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Signature Experience - Artisanal Tea Experience at Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory Set amidst the lush hill country, this immersive experience begins with a short visit to the tea plantation before continuing with a guided exploration of the estate's fully functioning tea factory. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will gain step-by-step insight into the tea-making process, from leaf receiving through withering, rolling, fermenting and sifting, as vibrant green leaves are transformed into the final brew. You will also learn about the specialised machinery, temperature control and techniques that contribute to the distinctive grades of Ceylon tea, while observing the coordinated efforts of the skilled team behind its production.

Start your day with an early morning game drive in a luxury shared jeep, guided by a specialised ranger. After the drive, return to the resort for a delicious breakfast. Later, head out for a late afternoon game drive with your ranger. As you explore Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's oldest and largest parks, keep an eye out for Sri Lanka's Big Five endangered species, including the Sri Lankan leopard, sloth bear, and elephant, as well as herds of deer, wild boar, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. End the day by returning to the resort to relax and savour a delectable dinner.

This morning, head to Negombo, stopping en route to Bandaragama. Enjoy a visit to a traditional Bandaragama Agro Village for a rural experience. Through immersive demonstrations including tea plucking and coconut oil extraction, gain insight into Sri Lanka's rich architectural heritage. Stroll through different plantations including coconut, cinnamon and tea. Then, discover local village life during a tuk-tuk ride before savouring a farm-fresh lunch featuring authentic Sri Lankan flavours.

Continue on to Negombo and after checking into your hotel, indulge in a farewell dinner at the beach.

After breakfast, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport in time for your onward flight.