Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train to Begin Operations on September 23 with New Five-Star Features
Mumbai’s iconic Deccan Odyssey train is set to make a return after a hiatus of nearly five years. The train will commence its operations on September 23 from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, delighting passengers with its upgraded features and new routes.
With a ticket price of Rs 6 lakh, the luxury train offers a seven-night journey that promises to give passengers the experience of staying in a five-star hotel on wheels. Managing Director of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), Shraddha Joshi Sharma, revealed the details of the luxurious journey.
The train has undergone refurbishment during the Covid-19 pandemic, now equipped with intercom and Wi-Fi facilities, a music system, furniture, beds, and air conditioning. It consists of 21 coaches, with four deluxe cabins in each of the ten coaches and two presidential suites in the remaining two coaches.
Apart from the lavish accommodations, the coaches also feature a conference room, dining room, health spa, bar, staff quarters, and storage rooms. The train has a capacity to accommodate up to 90 passengers and 34 crew members.
Sharma highlighted the train’s new additions, including fire-resistant curtains and paints, along with a comprehensive fire-fighting system. The train also boasts bio tanks to ensure that toilet waste does not flow on the tracks. Additionally, the kitchens have been upgraded with induction systems instead of traditional gas systems.
Known as one of the country’s five royal trains, alongside Golden Chariot, Maharajas’ Express, Palace on Wheels, and Mahaparinirvan Express, the Deccan Odyssey aims to introduce tourists to the enchanting destinations of Maharashtra while promoting the state’s culture and art.
Sharma also revealed that the MTDC has sought permission to replace the current diesel engines with electric ones, aligning with their commitment to responsible tourism. Furthermore, the train’s list of destinations has been expanded to include Delhi and Varanasi, catering to the increasing demand from tourists. Bookings for the train are already full until March.
The operation and management of the Deccan Odyssey project have been entrusted to a dedicated operator, who will focus on promoting 40% of tours in Maharashtra, followed by other premium tourist destinations across India.
The Deccan Odyssey train was built in 2003 at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, following approvals from the Central and state governments. In 2004, it was flagged off by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, with the primary objective of showcasing Maharashtra’s tourist attractions to domestic and international visitors.
The train will offer various organized tours for 2023-24, including the Maharashtra Splendor, Indian Sojan, Indian Odyssey, Heritage Odyssey, Culture Odyssey, and Maharashtra Wild Trail routes. Each journey will take passengers on a unique exploration of India’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes.
Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, covers politics, civic issues, and human interest stories and has extensive knowledge of Maharashtra. To read more articles by Mayuresh Ganapatye, visit their profile [here](https://www.news18.com/byline/mayuresh-ganapatye-25237.html).
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