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By Author
Published on October 3, 2023
The iconic Deccan Odyssey, India's crown jewel of luxury train travel, is back on track after a brief hiatus due to the pandemic. But this time, it returns with a lavish 2.0 avatar, promising travellers an unparalleled journey through the heart of India.
The Deccan Odyssey, known as the "blue limousine on wheels," has been a symbol of opulence since its inception in 2004. However, in recent years, it underwent a significant transformation, emerging from a period of neglect and rust to shine in all its glory once again.
Inaugurated on September 21st at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) station, the Deccan Odyssey 2.0 boasts a range of new features and enhancements that are set to redefine luxury train travel in India. Managing Director of the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), Shraddha Joshi-Sharma, emphasised the significance of train travel, especially in a post-pandemic world. She stated, "Post-COVID, people want to see the world, they want to enjoy the world, and we also see the shift when we take different modes of transport. Train is always better when you compare the carbon footprint."
So, what can travellers expect on this resplendent journey?
The Deccan Odyssey comprises 21 coaches, with four deluxe cabins in each and two presidential suites in other coaches. The interiors have been meticulously designed to reflect the grandeur of Maharashtra's royal history, with each coach inspired by a different era of the region's dynasties. As you step aboard, you'll be transported back in time to an era of regal splendour.
The train offers not only comfortable cabins with ensuite bathrooms but also modern amenities, including Wi-Fi facilities, special wooden flooring, fireproof curtains, and a state-of-the-art fire-fighting system. It's not just a journey; it's an immersive experience in luxury and sophistication.
Deccan Odyssey offers a range of carefully curated travel packages, taking you to mesmerising destinations across Maharashtra and beyond. Whether you choose the "Maharashtra Splendor" tour, which includes visits to the Grover Zampa Vineyards, Ellora Caves, and Goa, or the "Indian Odyssey" tour, which explores heritage and cultural spots in cities like Jaipur and Udaipur, each journey promises unforgettable experiences.
Of course, this level of luxury comes at a price, with tickets starting at INR 6.5 lakh per person. However, for those who seek the pinnacle of opulent travel, the Deccan Odyssey is worth every rupee.
As India's proud addition to the league of luxury trains, including the Palace on Wheels and the Maharajas Express, the Deccan Odyssey has consistently won accolades, such as Asia's Leading Luxury Train at the World Travel Awards. Its revival is a testament to India's enduring fascination with the romance of train journeys, a sentiment shared by movies and books alike.
So, if you've ever dreamed of a journey filled with promise, possibility, and adventure, all while basking in the lap of luxury, it's time to embark on the Deccan Odyssey 2.0. Experience the magic of India's landscapes, cultures, and cuisines like never before on this resplendent rail journey. All aboard!
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By Hariharan U
Published on December 19, 2025
As the countdown to 2026 begins, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts invite travellers to celebrate the New Year in style with thoughtfully curated packages across some of India’s most picturesque destinations. From lakeside luxury and hill retreats to wildlife escapes, these celebrations promise a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and indulgence.
ZANA Luxury Resorts – Jim Corbett: Guests at ZANA Luxury Suites & Cottages and ZANA In The Wild can enjoy an energetic New Year under the stars with DJ entertainment, fireworks, lucky draws, and a live performance by acclaimed percussionist Nishant Gugnani. A dedicated kids’ zone and special buffet ensure fun for all ages.
ZANA Lake Resort, Udaipur: Celebrate amid the shimmering lakes of Udaipur with a serene yet festive lakeside gala dinner. Guests can enjoy gourmet breakfasts, leisurely hi-teas, and even bring their own alcohol for a personalised experience.
ZANA By The Ganges, Rishikesh: This newest luxury address offers a soulful start to 2026 with a lively gala dinner, live singing, and tranquil views of the Ganges and Himalayas—perfect for those seeking festive celebrations with a touch of serenity.
ZANA Forest Resort, Ranthambore: Spread across 11 acres, the resort blends luxury cottages, green spaces, and a festive gala dinner, making it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful yet memorable New Year.
Country Inn Nature Resort, Bhimtal: Surrounded by hills and crisp mountain air, guests can enjoy a DJ, fireworks, Kumaoni folk dance, live singing, bonfire, and a lavish gala dinner, providing a joyous and family-friendly way to welcome 2026.
Country Inn Premier, Mussoorie: Step into the New Year with panoramic hill station views, warm hospitality, a lively DJ, and gala dinner, creating a relaxed yet festive celebration in Mussoorie.
Country Inn Riverside Resort, Jim Corbett: Adjacent to ZANA In The Wild, this property offers a nature-centric celebration with fireworks, bonfire, DJ entertainment, lucky draws, and live percussion performances, ensuring a memorable New Year getaway.
Across all locations, guests can enjoy live music, curated gastronomic experiences, and immersive entertainment designed to create unforgettable memories. With these New Year packages, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels offer the perfect blend of celebration, comfort, and scenic beauty.
Published on December 10, 2025
PRISM, the parent company of OYO, has announced a full refund policy for guests who could not check into their hotels between December 5 and 15, 2025 due to the widespread flight disruptions across India. With more than 1,400 flights cancelled over the weekend and multiple delays crossing four hours, thousands of travel plans were affected at the peak of the wedding and holiday season.
Under this policy, guests who booked through the OYO or CheckIn apps will receive automatic refunds once they submit valid proof of cancellation or delay. PRISM is also coordinating closely with its hotel partners to ensure the process is smooth and does not burden small and mid-sized properties that depend heavily on seasonal business.
Sharing more details, Varun Jain, Chief Operating Officer, PRISM Asia, said, “Our early estimates indicate that significant bookings across our hotel network may be affected by the ongoing flight disruptions. Coinciding with the peak wedding and holiday season, both leisure and business travel plans are being impacted. Our decision to offer full refunds is guided by empathy and a sense of responsibility to ensure our guests are not financially burdened by circumstances entirely beyond their control.”
PRISM today operates 13,000+ hotels under brands such as Townhouse, Sunday and Palette across India. To support the increased volume of queries, the group has also expanded its customer service team to help guests with refund requests and clarity on documentation. The company will continue to monitor the situation and extend the refund window if required.
Guests can access detailed policy information or raise requests through the CheckIn policy page or contact the dedicated support helpline.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on December 8, 2025
Christmas in India brings together beaches, hills, colonial heritage, and cultural celebrations, creating a festive atmosphere that feels unique to every region. Showcasing this diversity, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have highlighted seven destinations that capture the country’s holiday spirit and inspire travellers to plan memorable year-end trips.
Goa remains one of India’s most popular festive escapes, glowing with lights, carols, and its signature Christmas flavours. Churches such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception host soulful midnight masses that attract visitors from across the country. Travellers can explore lively Christmas markets, enjoy beachfront music sessions, or savour traditional Goan feasts.
In Kerala, Christmas blends coastal charm with serene celebrations. Cities such as Kochi, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram come alive with star lanterns, nativity displays, and warm community gatherings. A backwater cruise on Christmas Eve, a Kathakali show in Kochi, and the beautifully lit streets of Fort Kochi offer a relaxed yet festive holiday experience.
Puducherry brings together French elegance and coastal simplicity for a peaceful Christmas getaway. White Town turns into a picture-perfect festive setting lined with cafés, heritage buildings, and soft illumination. Visitors can attend midnight mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, enjoy French-Indian festive menus, or spend quiet evenings by the sea.
For travellers seeking a hill destination, Meghalaya offers a vibrant yet serene celebration. Shillong shines with decorated churches, choir performances, and lively music nights that reflect the state’s strong musical culture. Christmas fairs, colourful lights at Police Bazaar, and outings to Umiam Lake make it an inviting winter retreat.
A culturally rich experience awaits visitors in Nagaland, where community feasts, gospel performances, and beautifully decorated churches define the celebrations. Kohima and Dimapur showcase the state’s strong sense of togetherness, while travellers visiting in early December can also experience the energy of the Hornbill Festival.
Kolkata brings timeless charm to Christmas with its Anglo-Indian traditions and festive street scenes. Park Street turns into a hub of lights, music, and food, drawing crowds throughout the season. Midnight mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral, treats from heritage bakeries, and the warm celebrations of Bow Barracks add to the nostalgic experience.
Those dreaming of a winter escape can head to Shimla, where pine trees, colonial architecture, and the possibility of snow create a classic Christmas mood. The Ridge and Mall Road glow with decorations, while Christ Church offers a peaceful setting for Christmas services. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, warm cafés, and short trips to Kufri for snow-filled adventures.
Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel’s curated selection offers travellers a chance to choose a Christmas holiday that suits their festive mood, be it relaxed, cultural, adventurous, or nostalgic.
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