Deccan Odyssey, the Indian luxury train offers journeys that create memories of a lifetime. The train tour is a dream come true and equally amazing are the destinations covered. Owned by the Maharashtra Government, the royal train though presents all India itineraries, it focuses a bit more on Maharashtra. Board the luxury train and explore diverse landscape of the state, from hills to beaches, fast-pacing cities to pastoral setting. The sights of historic places, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, rich culture, amazing architecture, delicious food, shopping, entertainment and many more delights enhance the enriching experience of your voyage.
Of the numerous destinations and experiences, here is a list of Top 10 Maharashtra destinations that are covered by Deccan Odyssey
Mumbai
What can we say about Mumbai? It’s the thriving heart of Maharashtra. The ‘City that never sleeps’ is one of the best travel destinations in the country. The 18th century is built upon the 7 islands of the Arabian Sea.
From being the hub of Indian film industry ‘Bollywood’, financial capital, mega-offices, history, culture, museums, art galleries, nightlife, great food, amazing shopping, etc. there are exciting reasons you must not miss out a visit to Mumbai.
As the train itineraries start her and not actually cover the city, it is advisable to explore Mumbai before the start of your journey and have a fun time.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Splendor, Jewels of the Deccan, Maharashtra Wild Trail, Hidden Treasures of Gujarat, Indian Sojourn
Highlights – Gateway of India, Chattrapati Shivaji Terminal, Elephanta Caves
Aurangabad
Named after the mighty Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, Aurangabad is a historic city. Recently conferred with the title of the ‘Tourism capital of Maharashtra’. There are many remnants of the bygone days that till date fascinate visitors.
The charming 17th-century Bibi-ka-Maqbara is a replica of the Taj Mahal, though not that ostentatious and has a similar saga of love behind it. The mysterious caves, colorful markets, hand-woven garments, mouthwatering food, etc. add to the thrill of exploring.
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the holy Grushneshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India are places to not miss.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Wild Trail, Jewels of Deccan and Indian Odyssey
Highlights–Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, Shivaji Maharaj museum, Aurangabad caves, Daulatabad fort, Chand Minar, Weaving center, and many others.
Pench Tiger Reserve
Nestled along the Pench River at the foothills of Satpura in Madhya Pradesh, on the very borders of Maharashtra, Pench National Park is one of the best wildlife destinations in India. The national park is said to be the inspiration behind Jungle Book.
Inhabited by a healthy population of Royal Bengal Tigers, the wildlife reserve is famous for an early morning game drive. Spot Tiger, Wild Dog, Nilgai, Gaur, Deer and others including a number of species of colorful birds, reptiles, amphibians and myriad of tree species.
Take a break from cities and explore nature in its pristine form at the wild haven of Pench. Safari makes the perfect outing while spotting Big Cats, birds and more.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Wild Trail
Highlights – Pench Tiger Reserve
Ajanta caves
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ajanta Caves located in Jalgaon is one of the unmissable gems in Maharashtra. Hidden in the lush forests of the Deccan, these caves are named among the treasures tourist sites of India.
Dating back to the 2nd century to some to the 6th century, the collection of 30 different Buddhist caves are some of the oldest monastic institutions in India. The fine artistic carvings fascinate visitors, taking back to the olden days.
Magnificent carved temples, prayer halls, Viharas and other extravagant pictures that narrate the Jataka tales are the mystic finds of the caves. Though time has diminished its beauty the alluring charm remains intact.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Splendor, Maharashtra Wild Trail and Jewels of Deccan
Highlights – Ajanta rock cut monuments
Ellora Caves
Moving on with our list of the best places to visit in Maharashtra on a Deccan Odyssey tour we have the Ellora Caves. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora is one of the largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world. Featuring Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments and artwork, the caves date back to the 4-6th centuries.
Excavated from the basalt cliffs of Charanandri Hills, out of the 100 caves of the site, 34 caves are open to the public. Ellora is a true masterpiece that leaves you in awe of the skill of artisans who created them.
The Kailasa Temple, Vishwakarma Cave, intricate carvings, erotic sculptures, and tales from mythology are some of the things to not miss.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Splendor and Maharashtra Wild Trail
Highlights – Ellora rock cut monuments
Tadoba National Park
Located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, Tadoba National Park is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India. One of the largest and oldest natural reserves, there are a large number of species of tree and plants with wildlife like tigers, panthers, sloth bears, herd of deer and more.
Named after a tribal chief ‘Taru’, the national park worships and preserves nature. The Tigers are the main lure but that is not all. Diverse species of mammals, avians, amphibians, reptiles and other wildlife inhabit the forests.
Safari on the open top gypsy brings visitors from around the world. In the same environs are a wildlife resort that provides accommodation and food with a lunch showcase of wildlife documentary.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Wild Trail
Highlights – Tadoba National Park
Kolhapur
Showcasing the rustic charm of Maharashtra, Kolhapur is one of the mazing places covered by a train tour on the Deccan Odyssey. Settled on the banks of Panchganga River, Kolhapur is a mix of history, natural beauty and exciting culture.
Dating back to the glorious days of the Maratha Empire, the city is known for the amazing Kolhapuri leather slippers, necklaces, mouthwatering food and more.
Indulge in local sightseeing which includes a number of ancient temple, lake, museum, fort and more. The local cuisine comprise of spices that tantalize your senses.
Have a good time enjoying live folk performances, martial art performances and others. Shopping is a true delight to try.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Splendor
Highlights – New Palace museum, Mahalakshmi temple, Town Hall museum, Mardani Khel and others.
Sindhudurg
Located at the southern end of the Konkan Coast, Sindhudurg is one of the charming places to visit in Maharashtra. Named after the fort of Sindhudurg which means ‘Fort in the Sea’ the region dates back to the days of Mahabharata where Pandavas traveled through in their 13th year of exile. Till date the region abounds in a number of mighty forts by the sea, almost 37 in number.
Beaches, forts, pictorial scenery, waterfalls, temples, historical sites, tropical fruits like Alphonso mangoes, cashews, etc. are few of the pleasures of exploring Sindhudurg. Enjoy the natural beauty, folk art forms, heritage and culture in the small breathtaking town.
Itineraries covered: Maharashtra Splendor
Highlights- Sindhudurg Fort
Nasik
Next on the list of the top places to visit in Maharashtra we have Nasik. The ancient city finds mention in Hindu mythology which makes it one of the sacred pilgrimage sites in India and of late it has earned the title of the wine capital of the country.
The holy Kumbha Mela, held once in every 12 years at the River Godavari ghats get crowds from all over the world. One can explore the many lush vineyards open to tourists.
Stroll through the fragrant alleys, pluck the harvest and enjoy a lunch with exotic wine tasting experience. The vibrant markets of the city add to the exciting experience.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Splendor and Maharashtra Wild Trail
Highlights – Godavari Ghats, Nashik vineyards and market trips
Goa
Though not located in Maharashtra, Goa cannot be simple missed in being counted among the best places to visit on a Deccan Odyssey train tour. The favorite neighbor of Maharashtra is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in India.
Blessed with golden beaches, cerulean waters, the land is beautiful beyond words and fun quotient lures people from all over the globe.
To keep the tourists enamored there are plentiful beaches, watersports, parties, wildlife sanctuaries, Old Churches dating back to the days of the Portuguese colonization, mansions and so much more.
Each moment in Goa s a cherished memory. A world of its own, it’s a touristy paradise that allows each to have the time of their lives.
Itineraries covered – Maharashtra Splendor and Maharashtra Wild Trail
Highlights – Churches of Old Goa
The luxury train tours by Deccan Odyssey cover much more than places. They cover some of the most beautiful experiences of India.
Beautiful and very descriptive blog.