Maharaja’s Express Train

India has long attracted travelers seeking an immersive and unique experience. One of the most extraordinary ways to explore the country is aboard the Maharajas’ Express, India’s premier luxury train. 

Offering an opulent, royal experience reminiscent of the golden days of Indian royalty, the Maharajas’ Express is more than just a journey through India. The Maharaja is a title afforded to royalty in India, in the modern era it was given to Princes, in Ancient India it was the equivalent of ‘King’. As you might expect, this train is an extremely luxurious experience, winning “The World’s Leading Luxury Train” for 7 years in a row between 2012 and 2018. 

The Maharajas’ Express combines the elegance of India’s royal past with the comfort of modern conveniences. This iconic train features a stunning blend of contemporary style and traditional Indian craftsmanship, with every detail designed to evoke the country’s unique heritage. Lavishly decorated interiors, impeccable service, and curated itineraries ensure that every moment on board feels like stepping into a chapter of India’s royal history.

The Maharajas’ Express offers several itineraries, ranging from three to seven days, each taking travelers on a journey through India’s most fascinating landscapes, historic cities, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Whether you’re traveling through the deserts of Rajasthan, visiting the architectural wonders of Agra, or exploring the rich culture of South India, every route is guaranteed to give travelers a taste of India. 

A Palace on Wheels

From the moment you step aboard the Maharajas’ Express, you’re treated like royalty. The train offers a variety of accommodation options, all designed to reflect the grandeur of India’s palaces. There are Deluxe Cabins, Junior Suites, Suites, and the ultra-luxurious Presidential Suite, each offering spacious rooms, plush furnishings, and elegant decor.

• Deluxe Cabins offer a cozy yet luxurious experience, with all modern amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and personalized service.
• Junior Suites provide extra space, with a sitting area perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.
• Suites take luxury up a notch, featuring a living room, bedroom, and bathrooms equipped with every convenience.
• For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the Presidential Suite spans an entire carriage and includes two bedrooms, a living room, and a private dining area—making it one of the most exclusive accommodations on any train in the world. It is priced accordingly, at nearly ₹10,000,000, or $160,000 AUD for 7-nights. 

The common areas on the Maharajas’ Express are equally opulent. Two elegantly decorated dining cars, the Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors) and the Mayur Mahal (Peacock Palace), serve gourmet meals that celebrate India’s culinary diversity. Guests can also unwind in the Rajah Club (King’s Club), a luxurious lounge offering a selection of fine wines and cigars, or relax in the observation car, which provides panoramic views of India’s stunning landscapes.

Exploring the Best of India

The Maharajas’ Express offers a variety of itineraries, each designed to showcase the best of India’s cultural, historical, and natural beauty. These journeys take travelers to iconic destinations, from bustling cities to tranquil countryside, giving a true taste of India’s diversity.

1. The Heritage of India

This week-long journey is one of the most popular itineraries, taking travelers through some of India’s most famous destinations, including Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Agra. Highlights of the journey include a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal at sunrise, a boat ride on the Lake Pichola in Udaipur, and exploring the majestic Amber Fort in Jaipur.

In Jodhpur, travelers can wander through the towering Mehrangarh Fort, perched high above the city’s blue houses, before enjoying an exclusive royal banquet. The journey also includes a visit to Ranthambore National Park, where you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.

2. The Indian Panorama

The Indian Panorama itinerary offers a whirlwind tour of India’s most iconic attractions, starting in Delhi and making its way through Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi. One of the most spiritual stops is in Varanasi, where guests witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the sacred Ganges River—a mesmerizing ritual of fire, chants, and prayer that has been performed for centuries.

The itinerary also includes stops at Khajuraho, famous for its intricately carved temples depicting scenes from ancient Hindu texts, and Fatehpur Sikri, a ghost city built by Emperor Akbar that now stands as a testament to Mughal grandeur.

3. Treasures of India

For those with less time, the four-day Treasures of India route is perfect for a shorter, but no less indulgent, adventure. This journey focuses on the highlights of the Golden Triangle—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Guests are treated to a private tour of the Taj Mahal, a visit to the stunning City Palace in Jaipur, and a thrilling safari in Ranthambore National Park.

4. The Indian Splendour

The Indian Splendour begins with a journey to the Taj Mahal, starting in Delhi and finishing in Mumbai. Guests will get to visit the Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort due to its repairs being made with a rich red sandstone. Peruse the Old Clock Tower market, find yourself a souvenir, before being treated to an exclusive cocktail dinner at Khaas Bagh. 

Onboard Dining

The chefs on board The Maharajas’ Express create a fusion of traditional Indian cuisine and international flavors, using the finest ingredients and spices to craft meals that are as much a part of the journey as the destinations themselves. Each meal is an event, served in lavish dining cars with fine china, crystal glasses, and silver cutlery.

From sumptuous curries and freshly baked naan to rich desserts like gulab jamun and rasmalai, the onboard menus are a celebration of India’s gastronomic heritage. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served with a selection of fine wines and spirits, adding to the royal experience.

The train’s attentive staff ensures that each meal is an unforgettable dining experience, whether you’re enjoying a traditional Rajasthani thali or an expertly prepared continental dish. Vegetarian options are always available, and dietary requirements are catered to.

Conclusion

Every detail on The Maharajas’ Express, from the exquisite decor and personalized service to the carefully curated itineraries, is designed to offer travelers an unforgettable experience that mirrors the grandeur of India’s royal past.

Whether you’re exploring the architectural wonders of Rajasthan, witnessing the spiritual rituals of Varanasi, or venturing into the wilds of Ranthambore in search of tigers, the Maharajas’ Express offers a travel experience unlike any other. It’s a chance to discover the diverse wonders of India in a way that few get to experience—through the lens of royal luxury.

For those seeking the ultimate blend of adventure and indulgence, the Maharajas’ Express is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that allows you to experience the magic and majesty of India like a true