Palace on Wheels Class

The Maharajas' Express: Royal Indian Rail Journeys

Seven days of palaces, tiger reserves, and marble monuments aboard India's most celebrated luxury train.

Operator IRCTC
Carriage Count 23 Carriages
Featured Route The Heritage of India (7 Days)
Dining Mayur Mahal & Rang Mahal

Repeatedly voted the World's Leading Luxury Train at the World Travel Awards, The Maharajas' Express reinvents classic royal travel across Northern and Western India. Launched in 2010, the train carries a maximum of around 88 guests in 43 cabins, with plush suites featuring full en-suite bathrooms, personal butler service, and private guided land excursions at every stop.

The Four Signature Itineraries

Itinerary Duration Route Overview
The Heritage of India 7 days / 6 nights Mumbai – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Bikaner – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Delhi
The Indian Splendour 7 days / 6 nights Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Mumbai
The Indian Panorama 7 days / 6 nights Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Gwalior – Orchha – Varanasi – Delhi
Treasures of India 4 days / 3 nights Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi

The Heritage of India: Day by Day

Day 1

Mumbai Departure

A traditional welcome at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus before settling into your cabin and a first dinner as the train heads north.

Day 2

Udaipur, City of Lakes

Tour the City Palace and cruise Lake Pichola, with views of the white marble Lake Palace floating on the water.

Day 3

Jodhpur, the Blue City

Explore the towering Mehrangarh Fort and wander the indigo-washed lanes of the old town below.

Day 4

Bikaner & the Thar Desert

Visit the ornate Junagarh Fort and the Lalgarh Palace, often followed by a desert sundowner.

Day 5

Jaipur, the Pink City

Ascend to the Amber Fort, enjoy a palace lunch, and browse the bazaars near the Hawa Mahal.

Day 6

Ranthambore & Agra

Early-morning jeep safari in search of Royal Bengal tigers, then onward to Agra for an evening arrival.

Day 7

Taj Mahal Sunrise & Delhi Arrival

Witness the Taj Mahal in the soft light of dawn before a final brunch aboard and arrival in Delhi.

The white marble Taj Mahal at sunrise in Agra, final highlight of the Maharajas Express Heritage of India itinerary
The sunrise Taj Mahal visit is the crowning moment of most Maharajas' Express journeys.

Cabins & Suites

Accommodation is split across four categories, all with air conditioning, personal safes, LCD televisions, and en-suite bathrooms:

Dining & Onboard Lounge Life

The train features two thematic restaurant cars — Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal — serving authentic regional Indian thalis alongside international menus on fine porcelain and gold-edged glassware. Between excursions, guests gather in the Rajah Club lounge or the Safari Bar with its observation windows, and a well-stocked boutique sells artisan souvenirs.

Rail Tip: The train operates from roughly October to April, avoiding the summer heat and monsoon. December to February brings the most pleasant temperatures and the highest demand, so book 6–12 months ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are excursions included in the fare?

Yes. Fares cover accommodation, all meals, most beverages, monument entry fees, and guided off-train excursions. Premium spirits and spa treatments may cost extra.

Is there a dress code?

Smart casual during the day is typical, with guests often dressing up for dinner. Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended for temple visits.

Is the journey suitable for children?

Children are welcome, though the pace, early safari starts, and formal dining make it best suited to older children and teenagers.

Official Maharajas' Express Booking Site →

Continue Your Journey