Combine the spirit, colours and contrasts of India on two very different new rail adventures from Distant Journeys for 2026.
Whether it's a tour through northern India, using train travel to reach the key sites, or an opulent train adventure like no other aboard the legendary Deccan Odyssey, India's railways offer a window to the soul of the country that is truly unforgettable. In 2026, Distant Journeys are expanding their Deccan Odyssey offering with an Indian rail tour that combines a seven-night journey on the opulent Deccan Odyssey from Delhi to Mumbai, with shorter rail journeys to and from Amritsar - home of the Golden Temple - on the Vande Bharat Express and the Shatabdi Express. The Deccan Odyssey is a remarkable rail experience that transports travellers back to an age of romance and royalty and it was once reserved only for Indian royalty and British aristocrats.
Guests should expect grandeur, impeccable service and true nostalgia of a bygone era. Relax in opulent surroundings, dine on delicious Indian cuisine and soak up the changing landscapes as they pass by on your journey to discover the cultural and natural wonders of India. Elegant cabins feature rich wooden panels, plush bedding, and every amenity you desire, not forgetting a butler for round-the-clock service. There is even a spa car where expertly trained therapists are ready to pamper you with massage therapies, ancient Ayurvedic practices and more.
The 14-day tour takes you from the bustling streets of Delhi through the royal cities of Rajasthan, the rugged landscapes of Ranthambore National Park, fascinating archaeological sites and cave networks, ending in the iconic city of Mumbai. Each stop showcases a different side of this amazing country, where grand forts, busy bazaars, peaceful temples, and exciting wildlife can all be seen in one unforgettable trip. The new tour departs on 2 November 2026, plus 25 January, 8 March and 19 April 2027.
Prices start from £5,745 per person including return flights from London Heathrow, overseas transfers, seven nights on the Deccan Odyssey with all meal, two nights in Delhi and Amritsar plus one night in Mumbai, all with breakfast and dinner, overseas transfers, rail journeys to and from Amritsar, a whole host of unforgettable experiences, plus the services of an experienced local Tour Manager. Based on two sharing. See the changing landscapes, historic landmarks and lively cities of Northern India reaching many of them by rail rather than road, offering a different window to the sights and sounds of this region.
Journey from Delhi to Agra on the Gatimaan Express, one of India's fastest passenger trains - which is celebrating 10 years of operation this year - or ride the Vande Bharat Express, which is just six years old and combines speed with comfort. In contrast, enjoy the nostalgic charm of Shimla's Toy Train in the Himalayan foothills, one of India's most iconic mountain railways and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each stop offers insight into everyday life in this fascinating region, encountering shimmering temples, grand Mughal architecture, bustling markets, and peaceful rural scenes.
Among the highlights are experiencing the golden glow of Amritsar's sacred shrine, the pink-hued palaces of Jaipur and the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal. Tours are available on a choice of departure dates throughout 2026. Prices start from £2,595 per person (based on 9 April 2026) including return flights from London Heathrow to Delhi, overseas transfers, accommodation in carefully selected hotels, daily breakfast, three lunches and dinner each evening, rail journeys onboard the Gatimaan Express and the Vande Bharat Express, travel to Shimla on board the UNESCO toy train, a whole host of unforgettable experiences, plus the services of an experienced local Tour Manager.
Nine departures for 2027 are also already on sale. Based on two sharing. Distant Journeys offer a wide range of itineraries featuring iconic rail journeys including Rovos Rail across Africa, the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, The Blue Train in South Africa and Belmond Hiram Bingham in Peru.