Deccan Odyssey, one of the earliest luxury trains in India, has been flagged off by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) in a completely new look for this season’s run. The train now has refurbished interiors and includes a spa, fitness center, lounge with library, beauty salon cum spa, business center, conference room, bar, and restaurants as well as lavishly furnished cabins.

“Guests have all the conveniences and services of a five-star hotel on the train. They need not look for hotel reservations or even travel arrangements for sightseeing trips at every destination.

MTDC’s services include all meals as well as air-conditioned buses at every stop and guided tours for guests.” said tourism minister Mr. Chagan Bhujbal while flagging off the train.

Deccan Odyssey was launched in 2009 by the MTDC in collaboration with the Indian Railways following the resounding success of the Palace on Wheels of Rajasthan. The train was aimed to target the foreign tourists for promotion of tourism in Maharashtra.

The train also commands a major following among domestic travelers. The itinerary of the Deccan Odyssey includes tours to Mumbai, Sindhudurg, Goa, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, Chandrapur, and Nashik. The luxurious round trip on board the Deccan Odyssey lasts for 168 hours.

Tariffs of the Deccan Odyssey start from US dollars 425 during the peak season run. The train is expected to make profits for the first time this tourist season since its launch in 2004. More details of the train could be found on the website of the Deccan Odyssey.