This morning we take a short cruise, weather permitting, to Elephanta Island, a lush island densely wooded with palm, mango and tamarind trees. The atmospheric and fascinating cave complex, which dates back to the 3rd - 5th century, was designed to honour the life of Lord Shiva, one of the most auspicious Hindu gods and is now a World Heritage Site.  Marvel at the many statues and works of art dedicated to Lord Shiva. We return to Bombay for lunch at the Khyber restaurant (or similar) and in the afternoon you are free to explore Bombay independently or visit one of the colourful local markets. In the evening a welcome drinks reception is followed by dinner at your hotel where you can get to know your fellow travellers who will share this remarkable Indian odyssey.

This morning we visit the 'Dhobi Ghats', an intriguing outdoor laundry. The dhobi is a traditional laundryman who collects your dirty linen, washes it and returns it neatly pressed. The Ghats are the laundries where they practice this historic tradition. Our tour then takes in Fort Bombay and Gandhi's House, now turned into a fascinating museum depicting his inspirational life. Mid-afternoon sees us boarding our private train, the Deccan Odyssey, a perfect way to experience the colour, character and amazing diversity of India. Settle into your beautifully appointed cabin and enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of the Bar Car before experiencing fine Indian or western cuisine in one of the restaurant cars. An all day option prior to boarding the Deccan Odyssey is to take the 100 year old line from Neral to the hill station of Matheran (at 2,500 feet or 800 metres), 2 hours drive south of Bombay. As the little train climbs up into the clear mountain air one can view the scenic vista of hills and plains below. The total lack of motorised traffic at Matheran makes it an unusual and peaceful retreat.  (Guests will join the Deccan Odyssey, at Pavel Junction after descending from Matheran)

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a World Heritage Site, starts from the town of Mettupalayam and takes us on a journey full of twists and turns as this narrow gauge steam train ascends 30kms on India's only Rack and Pinion Railway with gradients as steep as 1:12 to the town of Coonor, from where for the final 16kms the train picks up speed on its way to the hill resort at Ooty at 7,228 feet (2,225 metres) famous for its pretty cottages and beautiful Botanical Gardens. The 'Toy Train' heads through plantations and forest clad hills and with no less than 16 tunnels and tall bridges along with the breathtaking views make a journey to Ooty an extraordinary experience!

Cochin's beautiful natural harbour and scenic backwaters has meant its history has been rich and varied. The British, Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch and Chinese have all left indelible marks on the architectural development of this city. We will visit the Dutch Palace and the Jewish Synagogue and then see the Giant Chinese fishing nets that billow from massive teak and bamboo poles which dot the entrance to the harbour and are still in use today. The day ends in a visit to the 500 year old Fort Cochin where we will walk through the historical Dutch and Portuguese buildings. In the evening there is the opportunity to witness a Kathakali Dance performance where the dancers are elaborately made up with paint and masks accompanied by drummers and musicians as they act out a dance drama.

The Deccan Odyssey arrives in Trivandrum in the early morning. After breakfast we visit the Napier Museum and the dominating Padmanabhaswamy Hindu Temple. Following lunch we head to Kanyakumari which is mainland India's southernmost point, where the three seas - Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal - meet and where the shore temple to the Virgin Goddess Kanyakumari stands.

The Temple City of Madurai was the capital of the Pandya Kingdom but it was during the reign of the Nayaks that the magnificent Meenakshi Temple was constructed. In the evening we will witness a Hindu ritual, an Aarti Ceremony in Madurai.

Pondicherry is the former capital of the French territories in India. Landmarks include Raj Nivas, the residence of the Lt Governor of Pondicherry - a handsome 200 year old building which faces Government Park with its paths and lawns, fountains and sculptures. Tonight, we have our final dinner aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

Madras, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is located on the legendary Coromandel Coast with a marvellous tradition of music and dance. This city of 4 million people has a pronounced colonial heritage dating back to the 17th Century. We arrive in Madras in the morning and transfer to our luxurious Taj Coromandel hotel for a 2 night stay before our tour of the city where we will visit highlights such as Fort St. George and the National Art Gallery.

Situated south of Madras, we visit Mahabalipuram, a beautiful coastal resort classified as a World Heritage Site. The rock cut temples and caves situated here are amongst the finest in the world and originated between 7th and 9th century. The highlight is a visit to the Shore Temple, which is renowned for its intricate carvings and skilled craftsmanship

This afternoon we fly from Madras to Delhi where we are transferred to spend 3 nights at the 5-star Taj Mahal or Taj Palace Delhi. Sprawling on the banks of the River Yamuna, New Delhi, the Capital of India, reflects the soul of the country. The city is a curious blend of the modern and traditional, skyscrapers, beautiful gardens and wide tree-lined avenues.

Today we take a tour of Old Delhi. The walled city is crowded, full of activities and

still has the influence of the great Mughals who once ruled India through the ramparts of the majestic Red Fort. In Old Delhi we will visit Jama Mosque, built in the 17th Century and is the largest mosque in India; Chandni Chowk the typical Indian market always abuzz with activities and Raj Ghat a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

We visit the 12th Century Qutab Minar, the Humayun Tomb which is known for its inspiration for the Taj Mahal, the war memorial India Gate and the massive community kitchen of the Bangla Sahib Gutudwara which daily feeds thousands of devotees. We will also see Rashtrapati Bhavan - formerly the Viceroy's residence and the Parliament House. In the evening we say our goodbyes to our fellow passengers at a Farewell Dinner.

Airport transfers are included for all guests.