Route selection has been an issue for the Deccan Odyssey. Currently, the train commences its journey from Mumbai, goes to Konkan (Ratnagiri, Sawantwadi and Goa), Pune, and from there to the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves. “In the coming season, we plan to add Todaba sanctuary and Nanded,” said Jayant Gaikwad, managing director of the MTDC.

Agreed Ashok Kumar, executive director (tourism) of Railway Board: “The luxury trains are making losses. The route selection is one of the reasons for this. Unlike the Palace on Wheels which is immensely popular, the other luxury trains are yet to gain popularity.”

The Golden Chariot, run by the Karnataka Government, is facing similar problems, but the economic crisis has not hit this service started in March this year. The Golden Chariot, as of now, has not recorded any cancellations. “But it’s difficult to predict the bookings next year,” said Ratnakar, chief spokesperson for the Karnataka Tourist Development Corporation (KTDC).