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Palace Tours − Luxury Tours Collection The − Luxury Roundtrip Journey from The Deccan Odyssey − Luxury Roundtrip Journey from Mumbai

This Royal Indian train has been benchmarked against the best in the world, such as the Blue Train of South , The Orient Express of , and the Eastern and Oriental of South East . The Deccan Odyssey takes you on a week−long journey to some of the best places in in southwest .

ITINERARY

Children between 5−12 years of age at time of travel enjoy 50% tariff

Infants under age 5 at time of travel are complimentary

Your tariff includes:

• 07 Nights accommodation on board the Deccan Odyssey • All meals daily (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and bottled water • Transportation and sightseeing by air conditioned deluxe coaches • Services of an English speaking guide for all sightseeing tours • Entrance fees and still camera charges at monuments, palaces, boat cruises, etc. during the tour

Your tariff does not include:

• Domestic or international airfare • Travel insurance or visa fees • Liquor, soft drinks, juices, wine or beer • Video camera fees at monuments, palaces and temples • Laundry services, additional toiletries, gratuities, souvenirs or any items of a personal nature • Use of the Spa, telephones and business center facilities • Any services in Mumbai such as sightseeing, transfers to/from CST station, or hotel accommodations • Any items not specifically mentioned as included.

*A 10% surcharge is levied on departures during Christmas and/or . Above rates are inclusive of the surcharge and all taxes.

Any leg of minimum of 2 nights subject to availability will be given at the current per−night rates. Mumbai− and Goa−Mumbai sector are sold as available segments to clients. However, if the client undertakes the day program at Goa and/or Mumbai, an extra $135 USD per person plus tax at each location will be charged. • Day 1 − Welcome to Mumbai

Wednesday: Mumbai is a city of dreams that 300 years ago was an agglomeration of seven islands. A short drive through the city reveals that modern Mumbai still preserves its antiquities as well. Board the Deccan Odyssey train in the late afternoon at Chhatrapati Terminus, undoubtedly one of the most famous Gothic buildings and an integral part of Mumbai's skyline. Wine and dine in the luxurious comforts of this train and whistle off on your royal voyage through Maharashtra.

1 • Day 2 − Behold and relax at Tarkarli beach resort

Thursday: Alight the train this morning at the Sindhudurg Nagari Railway station and transfer to Jetty for a comfortable boat ride. Enjoy the mesmerizing view of flora, birds and caressing waves on the ride to Sindhudurg Fort, strategically located on a rocky island. Marvel at the craftsmanship of the solid structure of this one−time naval base which is of the best−preserved forts of the Marathas and dates back to the year 1664. Apart from the huge stones, other building material involved 2000 khandis (72,576 kg) of , comprising the massive curtain wall and bastions. A notable feature is that the foundation stones were laid down firmly in molten lead.

Later this afternoon, proceed to Tarkarli beach resort via luxury A/C bus. The virgin beach of Tarkarli boasts soft silver sands, pristine clear waters, and a wonderful location at the confluence of the river Karli and the Arabian Sea. The wide river, beautiful sailboats, tiny islands and hamlets at the river bank all contribute to the picture−postcard beauty of Tarkarli. Enjoy a relaxed lunch, after which you have some free time to unwind in this idyllic setting.

Your next stop is Dhamapur village, stopping en route to visit a Cashew factory. At Dhamapur, visit the ancient temple of Goddess Bhagawati and Bharadi Devi situated on the banks of a beautiful lake. Rejoin the train at Railway Station and enjoy dinner on board.

• Day 3 − History, culture and tradition come alive at Goa

Friday: As the train pulls into Goa's Karmali station, get ready to explore an exotic destination frequented by tourists from all corners of the globe. Admire the lush green fields surrounding villages and hamlets and white washed churches standing out against occasional empty patches of startling . Welcome to Goa, the land of India's finest golden sand beaches, jungle clad hills, imposing ancient churches and elegant mansions, splashed with the colors of bougainvillea. Goa is indeed a great collage of sights, experiences and history. Start off with a tour of Old Goa as you take a walk amid the ruins of St. Augustine Church, once the largest cathedral in Goa. You may also visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi which began as a mosque but now is an archaeological museum for Goan antiques. It's time for an afternoon laced with heady traditional music, dance and finger−licking Goan delicacies. Visit Fontanhas, the Latin quarters at Panjim, the state capital, before returning to the train at Verna railway station. Enjoy lunch on board and spend your afternoon at leisure before departing by bus to a beach hotel. Here, enjoy a scrumptious traditional meal and return to the waiting train at Madgaon railway station later this evening. No matter how much time you spend in Goa, it will always seem like too little.

• Day 4 − Prominent temples of Goa

Saturday: Enjoy breakfast on board followed by a sightseeing tour of Mahalasa Temple, one of the most popular temples in Goa and is visually appealing and amplified by the six−storied 'Deepstambha' or ornamental lamp pillar in the courtyard. This splendid pillar is 40 feet in height and has 21 rings with 150 lamps. A fascinating spectacle unfolds when it is lit up with oil wicks on the annual festival day or Jatra. Continue on and visit another prominent temple called Mangeshi, set amidst natural beauty and pleasant surroundings. Mangeshi, a little village along Goa's Panaji−Ponda road is not only a point of pilgrimage for the followers of the Lord, it attracts hundreds of tourists from all over India and abroad. Next stop is the Sahakari Spice Farm at Ponda Villa, one of the biggest and finest spice farm in the country. Enjoy a welcome drink and snacks on arrival before a guided tour of the farm and discover a variety of herbal and medicinal trees as the guide explains their medical values. A typical Goan lunch is served at the farm and enjoy some free time in the afternoon. From the farmhouse, proceed to Meneses Branganza House, one of the finest heritage houses in the 16th century. Rejoin the train in Magdaon Railway Station and prepare to depart for your next destination.

• Day 5 − Immerse yourself in the heritage of

Sunday: Alight the train this morning in Kolhapur, a city with a multifaceted present and a mythical past. Situated on the banks of the river Panchaganga, Kolhapur has survived regimes of various rulers from the legendary past to the modern age; the Satavahana Kings, the , the Marathas and the British have all left their imprint here. Your first stop is at The New Palace, an Indo−Sarecenic architectural marvel that was built in 1881 and houses the Chhatrapati Sahu Museum, a curious array of the former Maharaja's possessions. Next, head to the Bhawani Mandap (the town hall) followed by a trip to the Mahalakshmi Mandir, a temple complex that is artfully adorned with horizontal moldings and

2 vertical offsets, creating a rich light and shade pattern. Travel to Shalini Palace on the west bank of the picturesque to witness a display of traditional martial arts known locally as "Mardani Khel." Kolhapur is known for its textiles and , and its Kolhapuri saris in particular, but is most famous for its jewelry, leather sandals and chappals. These items and more are displayed at stalls in the Palace, where you have some time for shopping. Return to the train for lunch and spend the remainder of the afternoon on board at leisure as the train travels to via . Enjoy a fabulous dinner as you anticipate the next day's destination: the 6th century.

• Day 6 − Revisit the history of Mughal India

Monday: This morning as the train passes along the rolling hills and picturesque ruins of the past, you travel way back in time to Aurangabad. After breakfast on the train, a luxury bus takes you to the majestic fortress of Daulatabad. An impregnable defense in its day, it still stands tall and proud, rising dramatically 600 feet above the Deccan Plain. Walk around the ruins, which tell you extraordinary stories of bravery and valor. Once known as Devgiri, this fort served as the head quarters of the powerful rulers. In the 13th century, Mohammed bin Tughlak, the Sultan of , made it his capital and renamed it Daulatabad, or City of Fortune. Your next stop is the Ellora Caves, a World Heritage Site located just 26 km from Aurangabad. Lying on the ancient trade route, the caves are thought to be the work of priests and pilgrims who used the route. Abandoned and forgotten for several centuries, the 34 cave temples and monasteries were excavated out of the vertical face of an escarpment. These 17 Hindu (800−1000 AD), five Jain (1000 −1300 AD) and 12 Buddhist (600 to 700 AD) caves at Ellora are among the finest in India, the latter of which belong to the Vajrayana sect of the Mahayana School. The caves include 'viharas' (monasteries) and 'chaityas' (chapels) where the monks worshipped. The earliest excavation here is of the Dhumar (Cave 29), and the most imposing excavation is, without doubt, that of the magnificent Kailasanatha Temple (Cave 16) which is the largest monolithic structure in the world. Completely open to the elements, it is the only building whose excavation was begun from the top. The Jain caves, less grand in comparison to the others are richly carved with lotus, elephant, lions and 'tirthankaras' of Lord Mahavira. They offer an aura of peace and simplicity. Return to Aurangabad for lunch and move on to the , built in the late 17th century by Emperor 's son as a tribute to his mother. A replica of , the fairy tale Maqbara stands out as the only piece of Moghul architecture on the . Spend some time browsing through and showrooms for perfect memorabilia and souvenirs. Return to the train at Aurangabad station for a mouth−watering feast.

• Day 7 − Explore the World Heritage Site of the Ajanta Caves

Tuesday: Alight at Bhusawal railway station after a royal breakfast and travel via luxury air conditioned bus to begin today's trip back in time. Soon, find yourself surrounded by dramatic views of the Waghora valley where the Ajanta Caves are located. Older than the Ellora caves (200 BC to 650 AD) they are also cut from the volcanic lava of the Deccan trap in a steep crescent shaped hillside. Lost to the world after the 7th century, the caves were discovered by accident in 1819 by a party of British officers on a hunting expedition. At Ajanta, the Mahayana group, Hinayana group and the later Mahayana group complete the spectrum of Buddhist development in India. 'Bodhisattva Padmapani', 'Boddhisattva Avalokitesvara', '17 Jatakas', 'The Birth of the Buddha' and 'The Thousand Buddhas' are amongst the finest murals and sculptures ever found. The paintings on the ceiling, particularly the elephant scattering the lotus, charging bull, the black princess and the row of dancers with musicians mesmerize tourists from all over the world. After a quick shopping break for artifacts and souvenirs, rejoin the waiting train at Jalgaon Station and travel along to in the royal comforts of the train while the magnificent images of the ancient caves linger on in your mind. Enjoy yet another mouth−watering meal on board the royal train. Arrive at Nashik Road Station where you are accorded a traditional welcome of garlands, 'arti' and 'kumkum tilak,' before transferring to the peaceful ancient temples of the Panchvati . The Nashik Kumbha Mela, which is held here every 12 years, is generally acknowledged to be the most sacred of all the festivals and is the largest religious gathering in the world. After a visit to Kala Ram Temple, built in 1794, board the train at Deolali railway station, where it's time for a farewell dinner on board as the Deccan Odyssey moves from the past to the future. Prepare for your arrival in the most advanced business capital of India, Mumbai.

• Day 8 − Finish the tour with memories to cherish for a lifetime

Wednesday: Enjoy breakfast on board as the sun rises over the commercial capital of India. Alight at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai in the morning enriched with the rich legacy of this land. Your royal journey is over, but the memories will live on forever.

3 DESTINATION INFORMATION

• Ajanta

Today Ajanta caves is the most exquisite example of ancient Buddhist carving. Over the course of seven centuries, the cave temples of Ajanta evolved into works of incredible art. All 29 caves have been carved with scenes from Buddhist lore, and 15 of them remain unfinished. Some of the caves served as vihara (monasteries) complete with stone pillows carved onto the monks' stone beds, while others were chaityas (Buddhist cathedrals). The caves are now like chapters of a splendid epic recalling the life of the Buddha.

• Aurangabad

Aurangabad is located in the northern part of the state of Maharashtra, in the western of India and is known mainly for its medieval monuments and cultural heritage, as well as for its silk and textiles. It is located 375 km from Mumbai (Bombay) and is named after the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb. The importance of Aurangabad is great, owing to its proximity with the world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora. Lying along the right bank of the Kham River, the city also boasts of Bibi−ka−Makbara, a tomb that has some resemblance to the Taj Mahal.

• Goa

Contemporary history places Goa, a West Coast beach town on the Arabian Sea, as a favorite alternative escape destination for the Occidental counterculture set of the 1960s. Prior to then, in the distant past, Goa was ruled by the Portugese, who dominated the way of life here for some four and a half centuries, their influence visible still in the architecture and culture of this sleepy town. Though popularly known as the holiday capital of , it is also a charming place with a unique international history. Serving as a welcoming entry point in India for artists and writers, Goa has also become an attractive destination for tourists and pilgrims visiting both Catholic and Hindu shrines, and for new generations seeking alternative sites for seminars, workshops, and medical treatments.

• Kolhapur Kolhapur is a city situated in the south west corner of Maharashtra, India. The population of Kolhapur is around 419,000. The main is Marathi. It is situated on the banks of river Panchganga and provides the location of the Mahalakshmi Temple. The city also lends its name to many common terms like , Kolhapuri lavangi mirchi, Kolhapuri gur and Kolhapuri cuisine.

• Malvan

Malvan is a small town located in , the southernmost district of Maharashtra. Malvan is town of historic tradition, and also boasts some beautiful beaches. It is known for Sindhudurg Fort, its delicious Malvani cuisine such as and fish curry and the Malvani Hapus (Alphonso) mango.

4 • Mumbai (Bombay)

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the capital of the state of Maharashtra. It is the most populous city of India, with an estimated metropolitan population of about 12 million (2005). Mumbai is almost overflowing with sights to see: fascinating culture, bustling city life and interesting landmarks. An abundance of outdoor markets and fine stores make this destination a shoppers dream. The city is home to India's film and television industry, known as Bollywood. Mumbai is also one of the rare cities to accommodate a national park, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, within its city limits.

• Tarkarli

Tarkarli is located 6 kms south of Malvan and 546 kms away from Mumbai on the coast of Maharashtra. Tarkarli is renowned for its virgin beaches that open up to sparkling blue waters. On a clear day, one can actually see the seabed up to a depth of 20 feet. Tarkarli creek is home to a variety of local and migratory birds and rare aquatic life. It is also a major attraction for fishing enthusiasts. It is also home to Sindhudurg, one of Maharashtra's more popular and important sea forts.

Price Chart

Children between 5−12 years of age at time of travel enjoy 50% tariff

Infants under age 5 at time of travel are complimentary

Your tariff includes:

• 07 Nights accommodation on board the Deccan Odyssey • All meals daily (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and bottled water • Transportation and sightseeing by air conditioned deluxe coaches • Services of an English speaking guide for all sightseeing tours • Entrance fees and still camera charges at monuments, palaces, boat cruises, etc. during the tour

Your tariff does not include:

• Domestic or international airfare • Travel insurance or visa fees • Liquor, soft drinks, juices, wine or beer • Video camera fees at monuments, palaces and temples • Laundry services, additional toiletries, gratuities, souvenirs or any items of a personal nature • Use of the Spa, telephones and business center facilities • Any services in Mumbai such as sightseeing, transfers to/from CST station, or hotel accommodations • Any items not specifically mentioned as included.

*A 10% surcharge is levied on departures during Christmas and/or New Year. Above rates are inclusive of the surcharge and all taxes.

Any leg of minimum of 2 nights subject to availability will be given at the current per−night rates. Mumbai−Goa and Goa−Mumbai sector are sold as available segments to clients. However, if the client undertakes the day program at Goa and/or Mumbai, an extra $135 USD per person plus tax at each location will be charged.

5 HOTELS AND RESORTS

• Deccan Odyssey , Mumbai (Bombay) ()

Mumbai

• The Deccan Odyssey , Mumbai (Bombay) ()

.

• The Deccan Odyssey Train , The Deccan Odyssey (5 −Star)

Deccan Odyssey − India

To travel aboard the Deccan Odyssey is to experience the finest traditions of rail travel, but in a train specially built to cater for the demands of today's most discerning traveler. All cabins are exceedingly spacious helped by the generous proportions of the country's broad gauge railway.

Facilities Two restaurant cars, offering a variety of international cuisine " Lounge car and Bar " Spa car offering Ayurvedic massage " Gym " Sauna " On board hairdressing salon " Reception car " Library and reading area " Business centre " Plasma TV screen " Deluxe State Room: Fully air−conditioned " En−suite cabins with either twin or double beds " Presidential Suite: Separate sitting room " Two bathrooms

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TOURS

A Week in Wonderland :

Climb aboard the legendary Palace on Wheels train for a week−long odyssey recreating the ambiance and glorious past as you travel through the heart of . You will feel like royalty on board one of the top ten luxury trains in the world as you visit little−seen and well−known attractions, including the famous Taj Mahal.

Welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels on its splendid and enchanting royal rail journey through the bygone era of the erstwhile Maharajas. Though times have changed and the winds have shifted, the Palace On Wheels cruises along in royal style, the kind only the Maharajas of yesteryears could have perpetuated and enjoyed.

The exquisite and exclusive Palace On Wheels has luxurious cabins, wall to wall carpeting, a well stocked bar, two dining cars and very personalized service... in fact, almost everything that could promise heaven on earth for seven days!

The Palace on Wheels has been rated one of the ten best luxurious train journeys in the world. Originally the train had 12 fully furnished non−air conditioned saloons, once owned by former Maharajas, Governor Generals and Viceroys of the British period. The Palace on Wheels started as a unique holiday concept hauled by a steam engine with its inaugural trip on January 26, 1982.

In 1991, a new air−conditioned meter gauge Palace on Wheels on the lines of the old heritage train was launched. The interiors of the current 14 saloons are authentic replicas of the historic coaches. Each saloon is equipped with twin−bedded cabins, each with channel music, intercom, with attached baths and running hot and cold water and a shower.

6 A Glimpse of God's Own Country Venture through , called "God's Own Country" by those who have seen it. With the Arabian Sea to the west, the towering high above you to the east and forty−four rivers crossing the picturesque landscape, Kerala is a very easy place to find adventure or to simply relax. Tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush green hill stations, exotic wildlife, Ayurvedic health resorts, enchanting art and architecture, magical festivals, historic and cultural monuments and exotic cuisine all contribute to a wonderful and unique experience in .

Trace the backwaters of Kerala as you enjoy A Glimpse of God's Own Country with Palace Tours! This 6−night journey is a wonderful way to enjoy the true Keralan lifestyle while being treated like royalty.

The Holy Ganges Cruise: Roundtrip from Kolkata Step aboard the Luxury River Cruiser M.V. Paramhamsa, the only one of its kind in Eastern India, for a 4−day heritage exploration on the River Ganges from Kolkata to Murshidabad and back in West Bengal. This journey is studded with visits to places of great historical importance, beautiful temples and more on the banks of the Ganges, one of the holiest rivers in the world, where you can relax in luxury as the heritage unfurls around you.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

Welcome aboard the exquisite Royal Rajasthan on Wheels train, your impeccable host for a journey into the beautiful land of Maharajas... This is travel the way it is meant to be; luxurious, leisurely and full of discovery. Journey back in time and relive the magnificence of a bygone age on this royal week−long odyssey.

The majesty and splendor of the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, with its comfortable and elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, combined with the adventure of a journey through the heart of India, is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region.

Delve deep into the heart of Indian history on a round−trip journey from Delhi through beautiful scenery and heritage destinations, where you will enjoy fabulous hospitality in castles, palaces and forts. So sit back, relax, and let the Royal Palace on Wheels cater to your every need!

TRAVEL TIPS & FAQ's

THE TOUR

What are the passport/visa requirements for travel to India? A passport with validity at least six months beyond your departure from India is required. Also, visas must be obtained prior to arrival in India. Please note that Palace Tours cannot provide visas. If you are a US citizen, please visit https://www.indian−visa.com/ for details on obtaining an Indian Visa. For non−US citizens, please visit www.mea.gov.in, click on "Welcome" and then under "MEA Links" at the right, click on "Missions and Posts Abroad" and then click "Consulate Generals". You can then select your appropriate Consulate General office and link directly to its website, where detailed visa information and application forms can be found. Please budget at least 14 days to receive it from the consulate.

When should I leave for Mumbai / When should I plan to reach Mumbai? You should plan to arrive in Mumbai one or two days ahead of the train's departure date, depending on your itinerary. The international flights usually arrive late night or very early morning. It is preferred to have one day to rest after your long flight to recover from jetlag as well as enjoy some sightseeing in Mumbai before you board the train.

When should I plan to depart Mumbai? The train is scheduled to arrive at Mumbai CST Station at 7:00 a.m. and latest disembarkation is 8:15 a.m. Passengers will be offered breakfast on board. To allow for traffic conditions and transit time, we recommend scheduling your

7 departing international flight no earlier than 11:30 a.m. For domestic flights within India, we recommend scheduling your flight no earlier than 10:30 a.m.

Do I have to stay aboard all seven nights? No, you can customize your journey to be from 2 to 7 nights in length. You will pay your tariff on a per−night basis.

Do I need vaccinations for traveling in India? No vaccination certificate or inoculations are required to enter India from the United States of America, Canada, or United Kingdom. If you are coming from Africa, it is crucial to have a proof of inoculation against yellow fever. We highly recommend that you discuss your travel plans with your physician prior to your trip. Anti−malarial pills or malaria vaccination is a common procedure for traveling in India, and water treatment tablets may be wise. For more information we suggest visiting www.cdc.gov or speaking with your doctor.

What is the time difference between my home and India? India is at GMT +5.5 hours. For example, from New York City (GMT − 5), India is 10.5 hours ahead. From Tokyo (GMT +9), India is 3.5 hours behind.

What is the weather like? Temperature varies from 8°C to 30°C between September to March and in April it ranges from 26°C to 35°C. The weather during March and April tends to be rather hot, hence light color cottons are recommended. Afternoon sun tends to be rather strong, so do not forget to carry your sun block, sunglasses, caps and hats or umbrellas.

THE TRAIN

What is the total occupancy of the train? There are 11 passenger coaches which hold a combination of single, double, and triple occupancy rooms and suites. If filled to capacity, the train can accommodate 122 passengers.

Is smoking allowed on the train? Not in your room, but there is a designated smoking area (the Mumbai Hi bar) for those who enjoy smoking.

Is there a doctor available? The doctor on−call is available at each station. A medicine chest is available on board for First−Aid requirements.

What facilities are available on the train? The train has a business center with Internet, fax, and print capabilities and conference hall. It also has a gymnasium, steam room, Ayurvedic spa, laundry services, mailbox, bar, library, and lounge with DVD channels. The leading dailies and newspapers and a collection of magazines is made available for your onboard reading pleasure. Please note that the use of some facilities incurs additional fees (see "Expenses").

Tell me more about the business center. It is well−equipped with computers, secretarial services, photocopying, telecommunication and internet, and equipment rental is available on board. There is a conference car/library with all amenities and connectivity designed to match the best if you wish to have a conference on board. Additional charges will be incurred for using the business center.

Tell me more about the spa. There are body massages, facials with Ayurvedic oils and a steam bath available to rejuvenate you. A gymnasium is also there for your routine workouts. Additional charges will be incurred for using the spa facilities.

Is there a dress code on the train on in the restaurants? There is no enforced dress code, but due to the upscale clientele, business casual attire is preferred. Krutapajamas and sarees are also acceptable.

What clothing is recommended for the tour? Please carry clothing according to the average local temperatures (see "The Tour"), i.e. light tropical/woolens. Please bring your swimsuits, if desired, for visiting local beaches and hotel pools, and sunglasses/hats/caps. We highly recommend that you avoid wearing leather at any time. Comfortable clothing and tennis shoes are recommended for sightseeing. Please be aware that when visiting temples, it is recommended to fully cover your legs and shoulders. You will also be required to remove your shoes inside the temples and we suggest you carry your shoes with you (do not leave them at the door). No special evening attire is required, but you may carry it if you need it for any special personal occasion. In winter months of December through February, we suggest a light coat.

8 Do you need a reservation for the restaurants? How many restaurants are on the train? No, you do not need a reservation. Guests are seated on a first−come, first−served basis in the two restaurants on board the train.

If I have a diet restriction, whom shall I contact? You can always inform us prior to your trip. Also, you should speak with the chef or train manager about your special dietary needs so they can accommodate you accordingly.

What kind of food is served on the train? Indian, Continental, Maharashtrian, Goan and Chinese cuisines are offered as fixed multi−cuisine menus, varying daily.

What type of electrical sockets are on the train? The three pin round sockets are available on the train. The voltage is 240V in the cabins and 110V in the bathrooms. Kindly carry any transformers or converters per your specifications.

Can I drink the water aboard the train? We advise that you abstain from drinking the tap water. Packaged water is provided complimentary throughout your tour for drinking.

THE ROOMS

What are the rooms like? The fully air−conditioned deluxe coaches each have a combination of 4 twin−bedded chambers with channel music, intercom, attached bathrooms with a shower, running hot and cold water, wall to wall carpeting and other amenities.

Are all the rooms the same? The rooms in each category are the same but vary in décor. Deluxe suites measure 9'4'' by 7'7'' plus the restroom which measures 6'9'' by 3'6''. The Presidential suites are approximately twice the size of the standard deluxe cabins, each suite containing one bedroom and one sitting room.

Is there room service available? Yes, an attendant is on−call for your service at all times.

Is there a safe deposit box in each room? There is an electronic safe in each cabin for storing your valuables.

Is there TV/DVD/music in the rooms? There are 6 channels of music available in standard rooms. Suites enjoy TV/DVD facilities. The lounges have 6 channels of DVD for your viewing pleasure.

What amenities are provided in the room? All essential toiletries like soaps, shampoos, moisturizers etc. are provided. Each guest is also provided with an arrival kit consisting of stationery items, brochures, cards, etc. There is a hairdryer available in every cabin's bathroom. Anything additional can be requested from the attendant, who is always available at your service.

Are all rooms pre−assigned or do you choose your own? The rooms are assigned on−site on the date of departure. If you have any specific room requirements, please contact us at least one month prior to departure so we may forward your request to the Operations team. We also suggest you make your requests known to the train manager upon arrival at the train station.

EXPENSES

What expenses will I have during my trip? Deccan Odyssey is a very inclusive experience. The Tariff includes all meals, bottled water, transportation and sightseeing by air−conditioned deluxe coaches, entrance fees and still camera charges at monuments, palaces, boat cruises etc. during the paid portions of your tour. Tariff does not include liquor, beverages, laundry, smokes, video camera charges at monuments, palaces, temples and other items of personal nature on board or outside, use of Spa, telephones and business center facilities, or gratuities. You will also pay additional for any services in Mumbai (i.e. hotels, sightseeing, transfers to/from CST Station).

9 Any leg of minimum of 3 nights subject to availability will be given at the current per−night rates. Thus Mumbai−Goa and Goa−Mumbai sector will be sold as available segments to clients. However, if the client undertakes the day program at Goa or Mumbai, an extra $105 USD per person will be charged.

How are my expenses settled on the train? You can keep a tab on your room account until the completion of your journey, at which time you are welcome to pay by major credit card, U.S. dollars, or Indian rupees.

Should I give money to the poor/destitute that I see in the towns that we visit? Beggars and hawkers are to be strictly discouraged.

How can I exchange currency? We recommend using banks or authorized exchange centers. Foreign exchange facilities are available at Mumbai and Pune.

How much should I expect to tip? If you are taking the roundtrip journey from Mumbai, you should plan to tip approximately $200 per room. You are welcome to tip in either US dollars or Indian rupees. Begin the trip on a good note by giving each of your two cabin attendants $25. We strongly urge you not to tip the cabin attendants for each service throughout the journey. At the conclusion of your trip, you might present $75 to each of the attendants. You may desire to increase the final gratuity if the attendant has provided a special personal service to you. The tips to the cabin attendants are pooled and shared among the train staff. Of course, the gratuities are a personal decision that should be extended to reflect your enjoyment of the journey.

MISCELLANEOUS

Can you deliver my tickets directly to the hotel? No, the train tickets are not issued until the date of departure. The tickets will be available during your embarkation reception at the train station.

Is the train accessible for persons with physical challenges? Special assistance is available in the form of wheelchairs for off−train excursions; however, the train's corridors are too narrow to accommodate wheelchairs. On board, there are crutches and a special attendant for manual assistance.

Are there opportunities for shopping while on the tour? Certain handicrafts and other special items of Maharashtrian origin can be bought while you visit the places covered by the Deccan Odyssey. There is also a small shop on the train for postcards and similar items. Is mobile phone service available throughout the tour? Mobile telephones can be rented upon arrival at the Mumbai International Airport for approximately US$25 per week, plus airtime charges. For more information about The Deccan Odyssey, please visit www.thedeccanodyssey.com or feel free to call one of our customer service associates who will be happy to assist you. 1 . Do I need a Visa for India? All visitors to India need a Visa

2 . Do you help with getting a Visa

Unfortunately, we don't offer Visa assistance but we can provide you with all the information that you need for getting a visa to India

Palace Tours Contact Information

If at any time you have questions, concerns or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us via any of the below methods:

On the Web: www.palacetours.com

10 By e−mail: [email protected]

By phone: 1−800−724−5120

USA: Princeton, NJ: 609−580−1372 New York, NY: 212−920−2543 Houston, TX: 832−446−2709

International: Spain : +34 912919229 United Kingdom: 800−8456−201 Hong Kong: (852) 30518159 South Africa : (+27)11−46133299 : 1800−156−671 New Zealand: 0800−442−510

By FAX: 1−609−683−9772

By postal mail: Palace Tours Ltd. 20 Wall Street Princeton, New Jersey 08540 USA

DIRECTIONS TO OUR CORPORATE OFFICE Please call ahead for hours and appointments!

By Car:

From Princeton area: Our office is located on the north side of Route 206 in Princeton, New Jersey. We are in the Research Park office complex, directly opposite from the Princeton Airport.

From points North: Via Route 1: Take Route 1 South towards Trenton. After you pass Forrestal Village Campus, you will begin to see signs for "Downtown Princeton &Shopping". Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

Via Route 287: Take Route 287 South towards Somerville. Take exit 17 for Route 206 South (Somerville). You will pass through a traffic circle follow signs for Route 206 South. Follow Route 206 South for approximately 12 miles. Turn left onto Wall Street.

From points South: Via the Garden State Parkway: Take the Parkway North/South to exit 98 for Route 138 West toward Trenton. Route 138 West becomes Route 195 West. Follow 195 West for approximately 17 miles. Merge onto Route 295 North toward Trenton. Follow directions below.

Via Route 95/ 295: Take Route 95 North until it becomes Route 295 North toward Trenton. Take exit 67A and merge onto Route 1 North. Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for Washington Road. Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

By train: Princeton Junction is the main train station along the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit. Visitors can take a cab from here to Princeton or transfer to a one−car train to Princeton called the "Dinky". The train ride takes about 5 minutes, and drops you at University Place across from McCarter Theatre. If you choose this option, be sure to purchase a rail ticket to "Princeton" for presentation upon boarding the Dinky.

Our office is a 10−minute cab ride from Princeton station (approx. 4.5 miles).

11 By bus: Several buses arrive and depart daily from Princeton Research Park (i.e., New Jersey Transit's 605 Montgomery Line). From the bus station, walk into the Research Park office complex. We are located at #20 Wall Street.

For emergencies while traveling within India, you may contact our office. Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.

Terms &Coniditions

PAYMENT TERMS: 20% of total tour cost due at the time of booking 80% or balance no later than 65 days prior to tour departure date  CANCELLATION FEES: (i) 5% of the total tour value if cancelled more than 60 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS (ii) 20% of the total tour value if cancelled 59−30 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS (iii) 50% of the total tour value if cancelled 29−15 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS (iv) 100% of the total tour value if cancelled 14−0 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS  We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the losses incurred in case of cancellation. For information on available plans or to purchase travel insurance, please visit www.palacetours.com/insurance.   Â

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