We visit India’s modern capital, Delhi, as well as Calcutta – considered its cultural capital – and Bombay, India’s commercial centre and home to the ‘Gateway of India’. Also on our itinerary are Jaipur’s incredible Amber Fort and the world-famous Taj Mahal, as well as Varanasi (formerly Benares), perched on the banks of the River Ganges and one of Hinduism’s holiest sites. Here we will take a private cruise, as well a walk along the city’s famous ‘ghats’.

However the highlight of this very special tour must be the time we spend in the Himalayas. We climb up into the mountains using the ‘Toy Train’ of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – one of only two UNESCO-listed railways in the world.

Taking around eight hours to climb to 7,400ft at Ghum before dropping slightly into Darjeeling (passengers can take a private bus if they prefer, which is quicker), the little steam locomotives use loops and zig-zags to claw their way up the mountainsides on their journey from Siliguri, where we leave the ‘Deccan Odyssey’.

In Darjeeling we stay in the renowned Hotel Mayfair (or similar), our bases for exploring the local area with its tiger sanctuary, tranquil streets – and magnificent views of the world’s highest mountains. Snow-capped Kanchenjunga, the third-highest, is most prominent but on clear days from Tiger Hill you can even see the peak of Everest some 200 miles away. Our time in the Himalayas is – literally – an extraordinary highlight of a trip that will stay in the mind forever.

2009 Darjeeling Mail Itinerary:

Day 1: BOMBAY (MUMBAI) Your voyage of discovery begins at Bombay airport, where you will be met and transferred to the five-star Taj Mahal Hotel for a luxurious two night stay. (Meals today at your own arrangements)

Day 2: BOMBAY This morning we take a short cruise 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 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.

Day 3: BOMBAY The compelling city of Bombay is rich in culture and history. Today 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 in to a fascinating museum depicting his inspirational life. Lunch is served in a local restaurant. 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.

Day 4: UDAIPUR We spend a leisurely morning onboard as the landscape and spirit of India unfolds before us. We then have the opportunity to listen to a talk on Indian culture before arriving at Udaipur, known as the ‘City of Lakes’ or ‘Venice of the East’. A beguiling tapestry of breathtaking lakes and opulently majestic palaces from the Rajput era await your discovery. The afternoon is spent admiring the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lake Palace constructed entirely of marble, which sits on its own island in the Pichola Lake, and visiting the medieval grandeur of City Palace.

Day 5: JAIPUR With a breakfast arrival into the capital of Rajasthan, the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur overwhelms the senses as we embrace its rich and colourful past. This morning we visit the Amber Fort and explore its breathtaking and ornate majesty, including the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. After lunch in a local restaurant, we continue our exploration with a tour of the Jantar Mantar Observatory, the imposing and vast City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This delicately stunning, yet enduring monument is constructed entirely of pink sandstone and was built in 1799 to allow royal ladies to discreetly observe everyday life. Finally, if time permits, we explore a famous fabric market before returning to our train to refresh ourselves. This evening we dine in the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel.

Day 6: DELHI One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant city. Our fascinating city tour takes in the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb, the first example of Mughal architecture in India, and the towering Indo-Islamic Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world at 238ft (73m) which dates from 1368. Tonight we enjoy dinner on board the train.

Day 7: FATEHPUR SIKRI, AGRA After breakfast, we visit the World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. Known as a ‘ghost city’ this red sandstone town was abandoned due to lack of water in 1585. This afternoon our journey takes us to Agra Fort, a magnificent structure that dominates the skyline. Its red sandstone walls run for 2.5 km and contain many fairytale palaces and two beautifully preserved mosques.

Day 8: AGRA - TAJ MAHAL Today is devoted to exploring the impossibly beautiful Taj Mahal, indisputably the most famous building in the world. Built in 1648 by Shah Jahan as a monument to his beloved wife, it took 22 years and 20,000 workers to complete. Nowhere else on the planet will you experience such a poignant architectural statement dedicated to the enduring nature of human love and inspirational artistry.

Day 9: VARANASI Varanasi simply has to be experienced to be understood. Our early morning arrival at Varanasi, one of India’s most sacred places, offers us the opportunity to discover what is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the world. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, this cultural and religious centre, established between 3-5,000 years ago, is a focus for pilgrims who bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges. We are privileged to experience this ceremony before departing for a private river cruise. Our exploration of Varanasi is completed with a guided walk through the ancient streets of this remarkable city.

Day 10: DARJEELING Today we leave the Deccan Odyssey and embark on a spectacular journey to the hill station of Darjeeling. We transfer either by bus (3-4 hours) or the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), Toy Train, from Tindaria which takes about 6½ hours. Travelling through awe inspiring scenery we climb 7,400 feet to Ghum, the highest Indian railway station, where snow covered Kanchenchunga dominates the skyline, before dropping 600 feet into Darjeeling. Our locomotive zigzags and loops, gaining height to reach the cooler air of India’s most famous hill station. A packed lunch is served on the Darjeeling Train before arrival into colonial Darjeeling. We have dinner in the Hotel Mayfair (or similar), where we will stay for three nights.

Day 11: DARJEELING We awaken to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kanchenchunga and this morning we can ride the DHR up to Batasia Loop and Ghum, climbing 600 feet during its 7km journey. The senses reel as we experience the chaotic nature of roadside life passing within inches of colourful shops, houses and enthralling monasteries. Our afternoon tour of Darjeeling provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the elegant grandeur of colonial life, as well as the contrasting culture of a Tibetan refugee centre and an absorbing visit to the Himalayan Institute where we learn about some of the famous mountaineering expeditions.

Day 12: DARJEELING This morning, weather permitting, we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch the sun rising over the snow capped Himalayas, with Mount Everest rising 200 miles away on the horizon. Your optional early morning trip to Tiger Hill is a quintessential experience that captures the very character of one of our planet’s most overwhelming natural sights. This afternoon we visit a tea plantation and sample the freshest cup of tea most of us are ever likely to taste.

Day 13: DARJEELING, BAGDOGRA, CALCUTTA After an English breakfast, we leave this tranquil haven to embark on a private transfer from Darjeeling to Bagdogra airport for a short flight to Calcutta (Kolkata). On the way you will enjoy panoramic views of the extensive tea plantations that unfurl below us. On arrival in Calcutta we transfer to the five-star Taj Bengal hotel for a two night stay.

Day 14: CALCUTTA Calcutta is a sensory delight and cultural extravaganza that is constantly evolving. After breakfast, we spend the day exploring and absorbing the many sights that comprise this enthralling city that was once India’s capital. Our tour includes a visit to the Victoria Memorial, one of the finest and most prominent buildings in Calcutta which houses a museum dedicated to the history of India. We then move on to Dalhousie Square, the bustling hub of English colonial power and trade during the two centuries of British rule. Our final stop is South Park Cemetery, an atmospheric and still space within the clamour of modern day Calcutta. In the evening we say goodbye to our fellow travelling companions who have shared this remarkable exploration with us at our Farewell Dinner.

Day 15: CALCUTTA You will be transferred to Calcutta airport to begin your journey home.

GUEST SPEAKER - FAROKH ENGINEER

Farokh Engineer will be on board our 14th September 2009 Eastbound (Bombay - Calcutta) Darjeeling Mail departure. Farokh Maneksha Engineer (born 2 February 1938 in Mumbai), is a former Indian cricketer who played 46 Tests for India and played first-class cricket for Bombay (Mumbai) in India and Lancashire in England. Engineer's active international career started in 1961 and continued to 1975, and he was India's first-choice wicket-keeper for most of that period. He was also a highly useful, stylish and very aggressive batsman. He is currently a match referee in the Indian Premier League.

Day 1, Calcutta (Kolkata) Your unique voyage of discovery begins at Calcutta airport, where you will be met and transferred to the five-star Taj Bengal hotel for a luxurious two night stay. (Meals today at your own arrangements)

Day 2, Calcutta - Calcutta is a sensory delight and cultural extravaganza that is constantly evolving. After breakfast, we spend the day exploring and absorbing the many sights that comprise this enthralling city that was once India’s capital. Our tour includes a visit to the Victoria Memorial, one of the finest and most prominent buildings in Calcutta which houses a museum dedicated to the history of India. We then move on to Dalhousie Square, the bustling hub of English colonial power and trade during the two centuries of British rule. Our final stop is South Park Cemetery, an atmospheric and still space within the clamour of modern day Calcutta. Lunch is served in a local restaurant. A welcome drinks reception is followed by dinner at our hotel where you can get to know your fellow travellers who will share this remarkable Indian odyssey.

Day 3, Calcutta, Darjeeling - This morning we take an early flight to Bagdogra and embark on a spectacular journey to the hill station of Darjeeling. We transfer either by bus (3-4 hours) or the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), Toy Train, from Tindaria which takes about 6 hours. Travelling through awe inspiring scenery we climb 7,400 feet to Ghum, the highest Indian railway station, where snow covered Kanchenchunga dominates the skyline, before dropping 600 feet into Darjeeling. Our locomotive zigzags and loops, gaining height to reach the cooler air of India’s most famous hill station. A packed lunch is served on the Darjeeling Train before arrival into colonial Darjeeling. We have dinner in the Hotel Mayfair (or similar), where we will stay for three nights.

Day 4, Darjeeling - We awaken to the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kanchenchunga and this morning we can ride the DHR up to Batasia Loop and Ghum, climbing 600 feet during its 7km journey. The senses reel as we experience the chaotic nature of roadside life as we pass within inches of colourful shops, houses and enthralling monasteries. Our afternoon tour of Darjeeling provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the elegant grandeur of colonial life, as well as the contrasting culture of a Tibetan refugee centre and an absorbing visit to the Himalayan Institute where we learn about some of the famous mountaineering expeditions.

Day 5, Darjeeling - This morning, weather permitting, we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch the sun rising over the snow capped Himalayas, with Mount Everest sometimes visible on the horizon. Your optional early morning trip to Tiger Hill is a quintessential experience that captures the very character of one of our planet’s most overwhelming natural sights. This afternoon we visit a tea plantation and sample the freshest cup of tea most of us are ever likely to taste.

Day 6, Siliguri - Today we make our descent by road from Darjeeling, arriving in Siliguri in the early afternoon. Here we board 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 prepared by the Taj Hotel’s chefs.

Day 7, Varanasi - Varanasi simply has to be experienced to be understood. Our early morning arrival at Varanasi, one of India’s most sacred places, offers us the opportunity to discover what is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the world. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, this cultural and religious centre, established between 3-5,000 years ago, is a focus for pilgrims who bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges. We are privileged to experience this ceremony before departing for a private river cruise. Our exploration of Varanasi is completed with a guided walk through the ancient streets of this remarkable city.

Day 8, Fatehpur Sikri - After breakfast, we visit the World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. Known as a ‘ghost city’ this red sandstone town was abandoned due to lack of water in 1585. This afternoon our journey takes us to Agra Fort, a magnificent structure that dominates the skyline. Its red sandstone walls run for 2.5 km and contain many fairytale palaces and two beautifully preserved mosques.

Day 9, Agra – Taj Mahal - Today is devoted to exploring the impossibly beautiful Taj Mahal, indisputably the most famous building in the world. Built in 1648 by Shah Jahan as a monument to his beloved wife, it took 22 years and 20,000 workers to complete. Nowhere else on the planet will you experience such a poignant architectural statement dedicated to the enduring nature of human love and inspirational artistry.

Day 10, Delhi - One of the oldest cities in the world, Delhi is a bustling and vibrant city. Our fascinating city tour takes in the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the World Heritage Site of Humayun’s Tomb, the first example of Mughal architecture in India, and the towering Indo-Islamic Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world at 238ft (73m) which dates from 1368. Tonight we enjoy dinner on board the train.

Day 11, Jaipur - With a breakfast arrival into the capital of Rajasthan, the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur overwhelms the senses as we embrace its rich and colourful past. This morning we visit the Amber Fort and explore its breathtaking and ornate majesty, including the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. After lunch in a local restaurant, we continue our exploration with a tour of the Jantar Mantar Observatory, the imposing and vast City Palace and the beautiful Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds. This delicately stunning, yet enduring monument is constructed entirely of pink sandstone and was built in 1799 to allow royal ladies to discreetly observe everyday life. Finally, if time permits, we explore a famous fabric market before returning to our train to refresh ourselves. This evening we dine in the elegant Rambagh Palace Hotel.

Day 12, Udaipur - Today we arrive in Udaipur, known as the ‘City of Lakes’ or ‘Venice of the East’. A beguiling tapestry of breathtaking lakes and opulently majestic palaces from the Rajput era await your discovery. The morning is spent admiring the awe-inspiring beauty of the magnificent Lake Palace constructed entirely of marble, which sits on its own island in the Pichola Lake and the medieval grandeur of City Palace which we visit. We spend a leisurely afternoon onboard our train as the landscape and spirit of India unfolds before us. Alternatively you have the opportunity to listen to a talk on Indian culture.

Day 13, Bombay - Mid-morning we arrive in Bombay, a compelling city rich in culture and history. Here we leave the Deccan Odyssey and transfer to the five-star Taj Lands End hotel. This afternoon we take a cruise 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. Marvel at the many statues and works of art dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Day 14, Bombay - Today 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. Lunch is served in a local restaurant and then you are free to explore Bombay independently or visit one of the colourful local markets. In the evening, we say goodbye to our fellow travelling companions who have shared this remarkable exploration with us at our Farewell Dinner.

Day 15, Bombay - You will be transferred to Bombay airport to begin your journey home.

To travel aboard the Darjeeling Mail is to experience the finest traditions of rail travel in a train specially built to cater for the demands of today's most discerning traveller.

Fully air-conditioned, India's premier luxury train offers a choice of Viceroy Class en-suite cabins with either twin or double beds - or Maharaja Class, in which each cabin has a separate sitting room and two bathrooms. All the accommodation includes an audio and CD player and every cabin is spacious - thanks to the generous proportions of the country's broad gauge railway.

Our train includes two splendid restaurant cars, offering a wonderful variety of international cuisine. Prepared and served by staff from the world-renowned Taj Hotel Group, the Indian and international food offered here is to the highest culinary standards. Traditionally decorated, these beautifully designed cars offer a superb and relaxed setting in which to enjoy your meals and watch India's remarkable scenery unfold.

Another highlight is the splendidly appointed lounge car, which includes a well stocked bar offering the perfect surroundings for a quiet drink with your fellow passengers.

For those with a more energetic disposition there is a dedicated spa car where passengers can relax and enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage; work out in the gym; visit the on board hairdressing salon; or enjoy the heat of the sauna even while the train is underway.

Alternatively you can secrete yourself in the reception car which has a library and reading area, a fully-equipped business centre and a plasma TV screen.