The Deccan Odyssey Luxury Tourist Train, one of India’s prestigious railway projects under the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), has long been an iconic symbol of opulence and adventure. Known worldwide for its regal charm and exceptional journeys, the Deccan Odyssey has undergone a significant transformation. Now, it is all set to reemerge in its splendid new form. Inaugurated on September 21, 2023, under the esteemed chairmanship of Hon. Assembly Speaker Dr Rahul Narvekar and the auspicious hands of Hon. Tourism Minister Shri. Girish Mahajan, this unveiling marked a grand moment in the history of luxury travel.
A Glance At The Deccan Odyssey’s Distinct Identity
The Deccan Odyssey luxury train was conceived in 2003, following approvals from the Central and State Governments. It was constructed at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai. In 2004, it was inaugurated by the then Hon. Prime Minister Shri. Atal Bihari Vajpayeeji. This time around, the grand inauguration was made special with the presence of Hon. School Education and Marathi Language Minister Shri. Deepak Kesarkar, Principal Secretary Smt. Radhika Rastogi (Tourism), Managing Director Smt. Shraddha Joshi (Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation), and esteemed officials from the Indian Railway Department.
The primary objective of the Deccan Odyssey was to showcase the splendours of Maharashtra to both national and international tourists. It will also promote the state’s tourist destinations, cultural richness, and culinary delights. From 2004 to 2020, the Deccan Odyssey train garnered immense popularity. However, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted its operations, just like other railways worldwide. Now, with the revival of the tourism sector, the Deccan Odyssey train resumed operations on September 21, 2023.
Also Read: Parineeti Chopra-Raghav Chadha Are Getting Married At THIS Place In Udaipur & It Costs ₹1,35,000/N
Renovation And Responsible Tourism
The Deccan Odyssey offers a variety of organised tours for the year 2023-24. They will cover a diverse range of destinations in Delhi, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Onboard facilities on this luxurious train are nothing short of extraordinary, with intercom, WiFi, music systems, comfortable furniture, plush beds, and air conditioning.
The train has a total of 21 coaches, featuring 4 deluxe cabins in each of the 10 coaches and 2 presidential suites in the other 2 coaches. Other coaches will be used for conferences, dining, a health spa, and a bar, along with staff quarters, generator cars, and storage houses, ensuring that every passenger enjoys a five-star hotel on wheels experience. To enhance passenger safety and comfort, significant renovations have been carried out.
Also Read: 7 Single Malts From India That Are Bottled Work Of Art And You Want Them To Grace Your Bar
Furthermore, the Deccan Odyssey has taken a step towards responsible tourism by minimising plastic waste, incorporating fireproof sets in the canteen, employing electric induction in the restaurant, and considering the use of electric engines in the train. It’s an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, making train travel a more environmentally friendly alternative to air travel.
In its new avatar, MTDC Deccan Odyssey Train 2.0, the train promises a new beginning.
Cover Image Courtesy: Press Release