Top 10 Reasons to Explore India in The Maharajas Express Luxury Train

by Luxury Travel, India, Train or Rail Tours26 comments

I have gone through several luxury travel experiences from all over the world in the past 4 years, and my time with India’s famous Maharajas Express (link) train has been the most recent adventure that left me at a loss for words because I was just so inexplicably awestruck.

Of course, this was my first ever rail journey, so I have nothing to compare it with — however, even with that fact, it was pretty clear to see that the train trip I did with them was an epitome of India’s lavish lifestyle that’s wholly reminiscent of how royalty or ‘maharajas’ were treated!

TRIVIA: The word “Maharaja” is Sanskrit for ‘great ruler’ or ‘high king’ and it was the title that was used to refer to those who ruled states or empires in India in the past.

Nowadays, the maharajas have lost their official powers ever since India gained independence in 1947; nevertheless, their wealth remained and most of them have turned into powerful businessmen instead, with some royal families or clans turning their palaces into hotels, museums, etc.

Where to Stay in Delhi?

Come and check out my list of the ‘Best Hotels in Delhi‘ which features the top-recommended choices for cheap to luxurious accommodation choices.

That being said, my days with the Maharajas Express surely made me feel like a queen for days and I must say… it was quite a curious thing! I mean, as I said, I have already been to a handful of places where I was pampered silly, but it was here in India’s Maharajas Express that red carpets were rolled out for me in every stop while locals look on from the train platforms, waving and taking photos as if I was someone worth taking a photo of. You bet that at times, I couldn’t stop thinking: “Why are they doing that? Why is this happening? Whaaaaat have I done to deserve this?” 

(*whispers* Thank you, travel blogging.)

It’s no news that India is a melting pot of captivating beauty and organized chaos, with travelers choosing to experience either the country’s grit or lux — or a mixture of both. I already had the chance to see India’s gritty side when I did my 1st visit, so this train journey with the Maharajas Express was a welcomed change of pace that offered more comfort and ease. Besides, I can assure you that though the whole journey was filled with grandeur, I still got a taste of India’s enthralling and rugged sensory overload!

If all of what I’m saying still doesn’t convince you enough, then continue reading on below to see the top 10 reasons why you absolutely should consider traveling in India by riding their most luxurious train — the Maharajas Express!

Why Travel with Maharajas Express

» ‘World’s Leading Luxury Train’

Luxury Train

It’s no joke when the World Travel Awards grants the accolade to a train company as being the ‘World’s Leading Luxury Train’, and for 6 consecutive years at that!

Supervised by the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the Maharajas Express actually launched just last 2010; and come 2012, they have gained this prestigious recognition from the World Travel Awards along with some other distinguished merits in the following years from Conde Nast Traveler, CNBC, Seven Stars, and more — and I bet that the rewards won’t be stopping anytime soon.

So yes, you’ll have a grand and elegant time with the Maharajas Express as the world’s costliest train and Asia’s most luxurious rail journey! If you don’t believe me, at least you should be able to believe the recognitions given by these prestigious international authorities, magazines, and tourism councils.

» Choice of 7 different incredible voyages across India

Golden Triangle

With a diverse country like India, there certainly is so much to take in: delectable food, diverse wildlife, grand forts, rich culture, royal palaces, and warm hospitality among many others. Fortunately, Maharajas Express has a tasteful selection of over 7 train journeys that are packed with insider experiences and done across India’s famous destinations (of which some are normally difficult to reach if not by train, and even more so when you’re pressed on time.)

  1. Indian Panorama: 8 days / October to April
    Route = Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Gwalior – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Lucknow – Delhi
    .
  2. Indian Splendor: 8 days / October to April
    Route = Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Balasinor – Mumbai
    .
  3. Heritage of India: 8 days / October to April
    Route = Mumbai – Ajanta – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Bikaner – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Delhi
    .
  4. Treasures of India: 4 days / October to April
    Route = Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi
    .
  5. Gems of India: 4 days / October to April
    Route = Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi
    .
  6. Southern Sojourn: 8 days / Early September
    Route = Mumbai – Ratnagiri – Goa – Hampi – Mysore – Ernakulam – Kumarakom – Trivandrum
    .
  7. Southern Jewels: 8 days / Early September
    Route = Trivandrum – Chettinad – Mahabalipuram – Mysore – Hampi – Goa – Ratnagiri – Mumbai
    .

I had the amazing opportunity of going on the “Indian Panorama” circuit which primarily leads us to the country’s famed ‘Golden Triangle’ that passes through Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Now, looking at all these 7 journeys, I find it quite ideal how they all start and/or end in Delhi or Mumbai because given that these are 2 big cities, it makes for a prime location when it comes to arrivals, departures, connections, and transits!

» Wide variety of excursion options

Varanasi

Depending on the train circuit that you choose, it is a guarantee that you will have an exciting blend of experiences all throughout your trip!

Truth be told, as a part of the base price that you pay, each destination stop would typically involve one to three excursions that will immerse you in the top activities, attractions, and highlights possible. Not to mention, you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide that will both entertain and educate you on India’s splendor. (Rest assured, they will also give enough free time for everyone to wander off on their own!).

Though if in case you still want to spice up your days with even more activities — or if you rather want to focus on a certain ‘thing to do’, Maharajas Express offers optional special excursions as well at an added cost. These can range from traditional spa treatments, golf visits, art workshops, guided shopping sprees, cultural shows, etc.

Sure enough, the possibilities are endless for you!

NOTE: All entrance fees to any sites are included in your base train journey price.

» 5-star living and amenities on wheels

Rajah Club

The best description that I can give for the whole of the Maharajas Express train is that is basically a royal palace on wheels that gives every guest an insider look into the past lavishness of Indian royalty!

As a newly-built train with modern fittings, Maharajas Express has a total of 23 huge and spacious carriages that combines accommodation cabins, 2 bars (with couches and game areas), 2 restaurants, generator rooms, and storage areas (for autos/cars, etc.). In fact, the whole train is a kilometer long and quite spacious too!

Moreover, with its wide windows, it always granted unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding terrain. (If I say so myself, there were so many times that I couldn’t stop clicking away as the train drifts off from one city to the next.)

» Four spacious and luxurious cabin choices

Maharajas Express Cabins

Refinement of the olden times is exuded across all the 4 cabin classes (totaling to 43 rooms) that the Maharajas Express train has, giving each guest the chance to enjoy all of what would normally come along with a stay at a 5-star hotel. Therefore yes, each room has a bathroom with water heating, complimentary toiletries, towels, hairdryer, bathrobe + slippers, LCD TV with satellite connection, DVD player with FREE movies, centralized air conditioning, Wi-Fi, electronic safe, closet, telephone, and work desk.

NOTE: I was surprised how the rooms didn’t feel too cramped at all! They really paid a lot of attention to detail in order to make everything seamless yet lavish. As for Wi-Fi, it can get patchy in the rooms especially when the train is transiting; however, it was amazing that the WiFi at the bar areas continuously remained strong even if we were moving!

  • Deluxe (20 cabins): 112 square foot
  • Junior Suite (18 cabins): 150 square foot
  • Suite (4 cabins): 220 square foot
  • Presidential Suite (1 cabin – taking up a whole carriage): 448 square foot

» 24/7 royal treatment and service

Private Butler

If you’ve been a reader of my blog for quite a while now, you would know how I regard the Philippines as being the best in hospitality (no bias), and now that I’ve come to India, I find that they’re a strong contender for this! After all, every personnel or staff that I met at the Maharajas Express exuded warmth and kindness.

And oh, don’t get me started with my amazing private butler!
YES, we each had our own private butler that answered to our every whim, 24/7.

My butler’s name was Singh (3rd man from the left in the photo above) and I’m not kidding when I say that from the moment I met him, he treated me like I was the most important person on that train.

Now I’m no ‘diva’ and I rarely have any specific needs but… with how attentive Singh was, there were times that he felt bad at how I didn’t give him enough instructions or requests throughout my stay and I had to assure him that, no, he wasn’t doing anything wrong. Anyhow, may it be wake-up calls, setting up of daily tea times in your room, or being up-to-date on the activities — you name it, your butler will take care of it, all in order to make you feel like a royalty that’s “at home”.

» Grand welcome in every stop

Indian Welcome

You will bask in lavishness inside the Maharajas Express train, and once you step out of it, you’ll be basked in lavishness even more! It’s an indulgence, for sure.

For starters, my feet always stepped on a red carpet whenever I got off the train. Flower confetti was spread around, garlands (called “malas“) were wrapped around my neck, lively music wafted through the air and sprightly dancers welcomed us with gifts and smiles. As a matter of fact, I received so many gifts in all of the destination stops that I kept joking about how I didn’t need to buy souvenirs anymore due to the number of trinkets and scarves that I was receiving! (And I really didn’t, haha).

Meanwhile, when it was time to get back to the train, most of the staff and all the private butlers are lined up to welcome us back with fresh towels and water. Aaah… it was bliss!

» Feast like kings and queens on board

Maharajas Express Train Restaurant

Maharajas Express has 2 themed fine dining restaurants that offer varying cuisines for the guest’s fancy and can accommodate up to 42 guests each. It helps to note that all meals are included in the train price and you are even free to order drinks or wine pairings at no extra charge.

I’m not much for drinks, but I’m a big eater; so, every day was like a feast for me as I continuously indulged in delicious Indian thali and desserts! (Of course, there are different Western and other Asian cuisines available that the onboard chef can whip up for you).

  • Mayur Mahal: Translated as ‘Peacock Palace’, this restaurant is named after India’s national bird. It was cozy and has a mixture of 2-person and 4-person tables.
    .
  • Rang Mahal: This ‘Palace of Colors’ is predominantly in green and gold hues, and I personally loved its lush interiors and hand-painted ceiling.

In line with the maharajas treatment, you will find that the plates all have real gold edges, and the glasses are even made by Swarovski with exclusive hand-cut stones… it was insane!

» Royal palace dinings

Jaivilas Palace

Most meals are taken on board the train but as dependent on your train journey’s destinations, there will be times wherein you will be dining outside — and when you do, you will either be eating in the famous Taj group of hotels or in past royal palaces.

For instance, during my ‘Indian Panorama circuit, we had a champagne breakfast in an outdoor garden of a luxury hotel that was overlooking the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra! There was even a night in which we had a barbecue buffet dinner in the courtyard of Jaivilas Palace in Gwalior, and another night wherein we had Awadhi lunch along with live Kathak Dance performance.

To say that every meal was a feast for the senses is truly an understatement!

» FREE-flowing gifts and drinks

Maharajas Express Bar

Previously, I have mentioned how we received gifts in every city stop that we did with the Maharajas Express, and as if that wasn’t enough already, in the end of our train journey, we were all surprised with a FREE gift of traditional Indian clothing such as sari (drape-like dress) for women and kurta (knee-long jacket) + churidars (pajama-like pants). I have always wanted to own a sari for myself so this was a really great surprise!

The fun doesn’t stop there because, in the Maharajas Express train, everyone can drink anything at NO extra cost. So that can be bottled water, juices, teas, coffees, mocktails, and house brand alcoholic beverages (wines, spirits, beer, etc.).

There are only a select few brands of alcoholic beverages that you’ll have to pay for — but basically, you’re free to drown yourself with all the kinds of drinks that you want every day! Ain’t that a treat? Most of the luxury experiences I’ve done such as cruises usually don’t include drinks in their base price so this was a great addition to the inclusions.

• • •

Travel Guide

» Other luxury trains in India

To date, there are 5 in total (including Maharajas Express). The other 4 are:

It helps to note though that Maharajas Express is the newest of them all, yet the one with the most local and international awards. The others are, of course, worth trying especially since they often explore other destinations but as a start, I would highly recommend that you try Maharajas Express as your first India luxury train journey.

» Maharajas Express train journey prices

The prices below are as of January 2018 and are based on the basic deluxe cabin for 2 persons. To book, just go here.

  • Gems of India (4 days): starting at $6,760 for 2 pax
  • Treasures of India (4 days): starting at $6,760 for 2 pax
  • The Indian Panorama (8 days): starting at $10,490 for 2 pax
  • The Indian Splendour (8 days): starting at $10,490 for 2 pax
  • The Heritage of India (8 days): starting at $12,000 for 2 pax
  • Southern Sojourn (8 days): starting at $13,210 for 2 pax
  • Southern Jewels (8 days): starting at $13,210 for 2 pax

» What to wear during the Maharajas Express train journey

Of course this will depend on what month and what locations you’ll be visiting, but for a start, take note of the following:

  • Wear smart casual clothes inside the train. You do NOT have to wear formal clothing (well… unless you want to, then sure!).
  • Make sure to pack a jacket especially if you’re going to visit wildlife safaris because mornings are usually cold.
  • If you’re taking a train journey between middle of December to middle ofJanuary in Northern India, weather can get really cold and foggy.
  • Naturally, during summer, wear lightweight cottons and linens when going out on excursions. It’s also best to cover your shoulders and knees when your excursions include a visit to a temple, for instance.

» Best time to visit India?

India is obviously a huge country so weather patterns are not the same for every state; and thanks to the Himalayas acting as a natural barrier too, regions can get extremely cold extremely hot at the same time.

Anyhow, visiting the country sometime during October to March is ideal especially if you’re eyeing the area around the Golden Triangle because though it may be warm, the temperatures are more moderate and tolerable.

» Best flight deals to India

My go-to platform for grabbing the best flight deals is Skyscanner since it scans all possible airlines that fly to and from your destination. I can even set up alerts so that it notifies me when the prices suddenly drop or rise.

» How to change money into Indian currency

India’s currency is called as Indian Rupee (INR). I highly advise that you do NOT exchange your money at the airport since the rates there are totally not competitive. What should you rather do? Either exchange your money or US dollars at a bank or at a money exchanger in your home country or in any of India’s major cities; or better yet, just withdraw from an ATM with your debit/credit card.
Rate exchange: USD $1 = INR 65~ = Php 50~

» Where to best stay (accommodations) in India

Since the Maharajas Express mainly has either Delhi or Mumbai as the starting point for their train journeys, below are the top Indian accommodations that I recommend. (FYI: It is highly recommended that you take a minimum of one pre and post accommodation with your rail journey.)

DELHI = See here a complete list of the best Delhi hotels.
Budget: Madpackers Hostel (or see HostelWorld for a complete list of Delhi hostels)
Mid-Range: Hotel Emperor Palms
Luxury: The Leela Palace New Delhi

MUMBAI = See here a complete list of the best Mumbai hotels.
Budget: Travellers Inn (or see HostelWorld for a complete list of Mumbai hostels)
Mid-Range: Hotel Yogi Executive
Luxury: The Oberoi Mumbai Hotel

» Visa to India

Most nationalities worldwide are eligible for acquiring India’s E-Tourist Visa which is fairly fast to acquire. To know more about this, read my guide on ‘How to Apply for an Indian Visa Online‘.

» Helpful Hindi phrases

India has 22 official languages amidst a thousand of different other languages that are being used in the country. Anyhow, the most spoken languages would have to be Hindi and English — so you’ll have no difficulties conversing in English with the locals (especially when you’re in major cities). But of course, it doesn’t hurt to learn a bit of Hindi.

Hello: Namaste / Namaskār
Thank you: Dhanyavād
Yes: Hā̃
No: Nahī̃
Goodbye: Namaste / Namaskār

Excuse me (getting attention): Suniyē
I’m sorry: Māf kījiyē
Is there someone here who speaks English?: Kyā kisī ko aṅgrēzī ātī hai?
I need your help: Mujhe āpki sahayta chahie
Cheers/congratulations: Badhai ho!

• • •

Maharajas Express

Overall

There are definitely many ways of discovering incredible India, but if you want to travel in utter comfort, luxury, and style without missing out on the full lush and grit of the country, a train journey with the famed Maharajas Express should be on your ‘things to do’.

To say that I had a magnificent time with them is an understatement and I’m sure that you’ll love it the same way that I did!

DISCLAIMER: The whole trip was sponsored by Incredible India and Maharajas Express and I’m absolutely thankful for this grand opportunity. Rest assured, as always, all thoughts that are expressed in this article are fully my own. (Some photos are also from the Maharajas Express website).

• • •

Have you seen my latest vlog?

How I Afford to Travel the World (Vlog)

About Me

About Aileen : Sidebar

Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid.
At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful digital nomad (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission? To show you how it is absolutely possible to create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

Follow Along

CURRENTLY BASED IN: The Philippines

Trending Now

Top 10 Things to Do for Your First Tibet Travel

Make the most of your Tibet travel with these top 10 must-do activities, from exploring ancient monasteries to trekking mountains!

Geisha of Japan: Understanding the Facts, History & Myths

Japan’s geisha are cloaked in mystery & secrecy resulting in a number of false ideas about them — so let’s get the facts straight!

Maximizing Your Miles: Unlock Budget-Friendly Travel Hacks & Tips

Start traveling smart! Take note of these travel hacks that will help you in maximizing your miles or do points hacking.

EU261 Compensation: Your Essential Guide on European Flight Delays or Cancellations

Learn to claim EU261 compensation for flight disruptions like delays, cancellations, downgrades, or denied boarding!

Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024: When & Where to Visit for Sakura Viewing (By Region)

Start planning your sakura (cherry blossom) adventure with this Japan cherry blossom forecast! (Includes best spots for ‘hanami’ viewing!)

Learn Today

How to Start a Successful Blog

and Earn Money!

Up for Grabs

AILEEN5OFF

Use this promo code on Klook to get 5% off on ANY tours & hotels worldwide!

26 Comments

  1. David Zoey

    Actually, This train is amazing. That is the special thing for them to come in the train VIP Person in India. Very well furnish and good interior in train. You share the information is really awesome and great going.

    Reply
  2. Simon John

    This is really amazing and beautiful train in India! You will be treated like a queen or king there. I really love this train so much.

    Reply
  3. Hariom

    Stunning pictures! I hope I get to hop on this luxurious train someday.

    Reply
  4. Kelcy

    Everyone always thinks of the Orient Express. I had never heard of this. Thanks so much. I love the rooms and the dining room. I can’t imagine how nice this must have been!

    Reply
    • Aileen

      True! I was also surprised to find out that this was the most luxurious train in the world — and now I know why!

      Reply
  5. Reesa Lewandowski

    Wow I would never believe this was a train! How luxurious and beautiful! It really is like a palace and a private butler? My goodness! It sounds like you had a trip of a lifetime!

    Reply
    • Aileen

      I truly have! It was absolutely luxurious and a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

      Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Pin It on Pinterest

Use promo code AILEEN5OFF to save 5% off on all Klook tours and hotels!
This is default text for notification bar