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Maharajas' Express Blog
  • October 28, 2026

A First-Timer’s Guide to Luxury Train Travel in India with Maharajas’ Express

Step back into an era where travel was not merely about reaching a destination but an event defined by elegance, hospitality, and leisure. A luxury train journey in India offers an effortless way to witness the country’s dramatic landscapes, ancient forts, and iconic cultural monuments without the stress of constant packing, airport transfers, or navigating busy highways. Among the world’s most celebrated rail experiences, the Maharajas’ Express stands out for seamlessly combining timeless royal grandeur with state-of-the-art modern comforts.

What Makes the Maharajas’ Express Special?

The Maharajas’ Express luxury train is an exquisite blend of India’s regal legacy and modern-day luxury. It operates across India’s popular tourist circuits of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Mumbai. The Maharajas’ Express luxury train offers you an insight into India’s rich cultural heritage with private excursions to some of the most sought-after destinations in North and Central India.

Instead of checking out of a hotel every morning, you wake up to a new city while on the luxury train journey. In addition to enjoying the view from the scenic windows of your cabin, you can also enjoy private excursions and tours to popular destinations onboard.

Here is what you get with a Maharajas’ Express train ticket:

World-Class Suites: Private en-suite bathrooms, panoramic windows, and dedicated personal valet service.

Fine Dining & Lounges: Two themed dining cars, free-flowing beverages, and dedicated lounge/bar cars.

Off-Train Excursions: Private guided tours, luxury transport transfers, and exclusive cultural dinners.

Onboard Living: Cabins and Suites 

There are four types of Maharajas’ Express luxury suites for you to choose from: deluxe cabins, junior suites, suites, and the presidential suite. All cabins are themed to depict India’s rich cultural heritage and have en-suite bathrooms, round panoramic windows, air conditioning, and electronic safes. You can have your private butler attending to your needs at the push of a button. The Presidential Suite has extra space, a separate seating area, and a personal car for private excursions.

Deluxe Cabins & Junior Suites: Perfect for couples and solo travellers who want a cosy, beautifully appointed retreat after a day of touring.

Suites & Presidential Suites: Ideal for guests who value extra room to relax, feature personal valets, and receive elevated VIP treatment during off-board activities.

Dining, Drinks, and Social Spaces 

Fine dining is a central highlight of the experience. The train features two lavishly decorated dining cars, Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal, where chefs prepare freshly cooked meals using locally sourced ingredients. 

Feature Details
Cuisine Options Authentic regional Indian regional specialities alongside classic Western and international dishes
Dietary Flexibility Full customisation for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or specific dietary requirements
Lounge Cars Rajah Club and Safari Bar offer premium spirits, fine wines, board games, and quiet corners
What to Expect on Off-Train Sightseeing Excursions 

When travelling on a luxury train in India, the excursions and tours are the main highlight of the journey. A standard 6- to 7-day luxury train tour in India has a fascinating itinerary that takes you through the most iconic destinations in North and Central India.

Some of the most popular excursions you can expect to experience on a royal train journey in India are:

Agra: Explore Agra’s popular Mughal-era attractions such as the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort at sunrise or during the day.

Ranthambore: Go on an exciting safari drive in Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive Bengal tiger.

Jaipur & Jodhpur: The luxury train takes you on a tour of Jaipur and Jodhpur’s hilltop forts and palaces as you enjoy private high tea or barbecue evenings in these majestic forts.

Bikaner & Udaipur: End your day with sundowners in the desert sand dunes in Bikaner and a boat ride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur.

The excursions and tours offered by luxury trains in India are all-inclusive with private transport, certified local tour guides, porterage, and entry fees.

Essential Practical Tips When Taking a Luxury Train Ride in India

What to pack: Make sure to pack comfortable and stylish clothing suitable for day adventures. You can also bring along lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and closed shoes for use during excursions in the daytime.

Visa requirements: Ensure you have a valid visa to enter India. Most nationalities can apply for an e-visa to India.

Embarking on Your Journey 

A luxury train ride in India on the Maharajas’ Express luxury train set promises to be an experience of a lifetime. Not only do you get to see the top tourist attractions in North and Central India, but you also enjoy the comfort of a luxury hotel while being able to indulge in fine dining on the move. It is an experience that will open your eyes to India’s rich cultural heritage and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation Ltd

(A Govt. of India Enterprise)

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