Why the Maharajas’ Express Is a Bucket List Experience for Luxury Travelers

When it comes to unforgettable travel experiences, few can match the majestic opulence and elegance of the Maharajas Express. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) launched Maharajas’ Express in 2010, which revolutionized royal travel in India. In seven consecutive years (2012-2018), Maharajas’ Express has been voted the World's Leading Luxury Train by World Travel Awards, surpassing other globally known train icons like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This is not merely a train journey-it’s an adventure into the splendor and opulence of the Indian royal history, re-invented for the 21st-century traveler. If your idea of the perfect getaway includes private butlers, gourmet dining, silk upholstery, and palatial sightseeing, then the Maharajas’ Express deserves a top spot on your luxury bucket list

Step Into a World of Royalty on Rails

Imagine boarding a train where each carriage whispers stories of India’s princely states. Once you get on board Maharajas Express, you are welcomed with a red carpet reception and a royal salute. Fitted-out waiters, vintage decor, luxurious timber, and selective care are the prelude to what will be.

The train has been built to recreate the extravagance of the old maharajas with lavishly designed cabins such as Deluxe Cabin, Junior Suite, Suite, and Presidential Suite (which is a carriage-sized residence provided with its own living room, bedroom, and personal bathroom).

It’s More Than Travel—It’s Time Travel

Imagine boarding a train where each carriage whispers stories of India’s princely states. The luxury of the Maharajas Express lies in the fact that it combines the old heritage melted into modern craftsmanship. From the onset, you’re welcomed with a red-carpet reception and a royal salute. As you step into the zoned air-conditioned suites, the Wi-Fi, and the en-suite bathrooms, your environs take you back to a time of elephant-guided processions, Mughal palaces, and Rajput splendor.

All the itineraries are designed to perfection, be it the Heritage of India, Treasures of India, or The Indian Panorama route, you will certainly feel like visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, memorable forts, and energetic markets. Embrace mornings that include royal feasts and champagne being served in a hotel close to the Taj Mahal or being invited to a royal banquet in a palace, which is several centuries old in Rajasthan.

Michelin-Star Level Cuisine, Served with Silverware

Fine dining is the order of the day as you board the Maharaja Express. Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal are two restaurants that are intricately themed and offer rotating menus with Indian delicacies and gourmet foods across the globe. Whether it's lobster in saffron sauce or truffle risotto or even traditional Rajasthani laal maas, all the dishes are cooked up by the master chefs using the freshest ingredients.

The cutlery and utensils are all high quality, from clear glasses to silver cutlery, accompanied by a curated wine list to match any five-star hotel. Additionally, the staff caters to all travelers with special dietary requirements, ensuring everyone, regardless of their allergies or health conditions, receives a unique culinary experience.

Personalized Service Fit for Royalty

Maharajas Express is well known for good customer service, with most customers noting a personal but non-intrusive service. The degree of personalization is raved about by guests, including whether you want to have a certain type of pillow and what your favorite evening cocktail is. It is not to be a mere tourist but rather you are welcomed as a special guest of the Maharaja Express. On board, you are offered a personal butler in every cabin. These butlers undergo rigorous five-star training in hospitality to cater to all your needs. Whether it's breakfast in bed, having a spa appointment the next day, or a custom tour stop: your wish is their command.

Witness the Soul of India, One Regal Stop at a Time

India’s diversity unfolds with every sunrise at a new destination. Here’s a glimpse of what you might experience on your journey:

Jaipur: Experience a procession of elephants in Amer Fort or shop for gemstones in the royal bazaars.

Varanasi: Witness a sound-stirring Ganga Aarti into the holy river.

Udaipur: Take a cruise down the romantic Lake Pichola with the City Palace in twilight.

Khajuraho: Be blown away by the amazing temples covered in UNESCO-listed sculptures dating back to ancient times.

Agra: Visit the Taj Mahal, best visited in the morning before the crowds arrive at midday.

Ranthambore: Head on a tiger hunting expedition with the wild heart of Rajasthan.

Book the Journey of a Lifetime Today

If you’re ready to check this once-in-a-lifetime experience off your bucket list, look no further than Orient Rail Journeys. As official partners of the Maharajas’ Express, they offer: