Maharaja Express represents the Golden Era of Rail Travel in the country. A time when the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks was the soundtrack to grand adventures, when journeys were as important as the destinations, and when luxury rolled across the subcontinent on steel rails. While that era seemed lost to black-and-white photographs and nostalgia, it was spectacularly reborn in 2010 with the launch of the Maharaja Express.
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Heralded as India’s answer to the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, the Maharaja Express isn't just a train; it's a moving five-star hotel, a palace on wheels, and a living museum of Indian heritage. Ever wonder how this luxury travel came into existence in the country? Let us get familiar with the Maharaja Express history in eight easy-to-understand points.
1. Royal decree to Ultra-modern travel marvel
Unlike other railway projects, the Maharaja Express was a dream-come-true initiative taken by IRCTC. This is a legal subsidy body operated under the Indian Railways. The demand for operating a luxury train travel service in the country was first introduced in early 2000.
The increasing global demand for the Maharaja Express was identified first by IRCTC. Ever since its launch, the service has been looked up as royal past and Indian pride. It represents the diverse culture of the country. The real vision behind the successful launch of Maharaja Express can be related to the ambitious dream of introducing the nation’s own luxury travel service.
Earlier, the luxury travel service was offered by Deccan Odyssey and Palace on Wheels services. This is one project under a joint venture of the private and public sectors in the country. The successful collaboration is a result of a partnership merger between C & K (Cox & Kings) India Ltd. and IRCTC (Indian Railways Catering Services). The two merge to offer high-end hospitality to the guests.
You will certainly remember this as a once-in-a-lifetime journey. It takes a journey through the heart of the nation- Rajasthan and Delhi. The service targets global tourists and travelers, offering an immersive, opulent, and unique travel experience.
2. The true “Maharaja” identity- The Name’s Sake
Ever wondered why the name “Maharaja Express”- out of a thousand other options? The answer is simple: “Profound Interest”. The word “Maharaja” represents great Kings and warriors. The word is derived from the Sanskrit origin. This word represents the legendary princely icons of the country. It also refers to the unconditional hospitality of the legends. It’s a precedent promise authorities make towards global travelers. So, if you book the Maharaja Express, then you are offered unconditional hospitality treatment like royalty. This royal treatment is offered right from the moment you board the Maharaja Express.
Keep in mind that there are no marketing gimmicks to this fact. For guests, this experience is curated, so you feel like modern era queens and kings. The train has been upgraded to offer customized butler service onboard, each passenger. You also get khidmatdar or attendant services onboard. Each gourmet cuisine is fit to blend in perfectly with royal cuisine.
You certainly may notice that, as its name the services offered are majestic. The journey route is through a regal land that was once ruled by the great Maharajas of the country.
3. Star-Studded Service Debut
As per dates, the train service was introduced for the general public in early 2010. Ever since its launch, Maharaja Express has managed to grow public anticipation and fanfare. If you were in your teens in 2010, then you might remember how a historical event was organized for the launch festival of this luxurious train journey.
The launch event managed to cement within a global recognized phenomenon and was first attended by international travelers and celebrities from across the globe. Sir Branson Richards also attended the launch run, who is better known as the founder of the Virgin Group worldwide.
As per history is concerned, Branson made a remarkable history by attending the launch event. This event was mass covered by international media (even though social media was not active in those days). The voyage was celebrated as a maiden run between Delhi and Mumbai stations, connecting some of the historical destinations in between.
Ever since that maiden run, it was very clear that the new initiative was all set to deliver luxury travel service to the general public and international travelers. For many, the Maharaja Express has and will always remain an unforgettable experience.
4. Design and Architecture Philosophy (A Rolling Palace on Wheels)
The moment you step onboard the Maharaja Express, you feel like you just entered an art gallery on Wheels. The entire interior has been dedicated to rich Indian craftsmanship. The interior design can be considered as a mastermind done by peer designers. The entire interiors were done by a joint venture between Singapore and Indian origin designers.
You may find that the entire interior in contemporary interpretation replicates the Mughal and Rajput eras. You find that each carriage has been decorated with a rich color combination, combined with elegant-looking chandeliers and intricate wooden interiors.
The name selection for each coach is also a master stroke done by an expert team. Each coach is named after a precious gemstone – alias Pearl, Ruby, Diamond, etc.
Deluxe Cabins are named after gems like:
Junior Suites are named after gems such as:
Suites are named after major gems like:
There is also one Presidential Suite, which occupies an entire rail carriage.
In addition to the guest carriages, the train features dining and lounge cars with their own names:
This reflects the royal quality of the train service. You find the interior is very much aesthetic to contemporary, and classic in appearance.
The train is a part of national heritage. You may find the interior atmosphere is very calming and soothing with an extra touch of ultra-modernity and comfort for its superior.
5. Accommodations- Everything from King-size cabins to comfort
If you speak of accommodation onboard, everything inside is redefined to suit international passengers. You can rent different suites as per range and budget. Deluxe cabins are a very popular choice. Each cabin is well decorated to suit royal living standards.
You find that each cabin is fitted with a large window for a panoramic view. Junior suites are just next in comfort level. You find the junior suites offer enhanced luxury amenities. The suites section is the epitome of well-defined luxury and comfort. You can also book presidential suites.
6. Culinary royalty
Maharajas enjoyed luxury feasts. The Maharaja Express also maintains the same trend. The culinary section is handled by Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal services. The dining cart is centrally located so passengers can access it at any time. Each meal is prepared with fresh ingredients from the market.
You get to enjoy the regional delicacies when traveling. Here on board, the staff will serve Rajasthan delicacies along with other favorite dishes on the menu. You can order Indian dishes and international wines, champagnes, and spirits.
7. Iconic itineraries and journeys
This train is just not about a simple train ride. It is curated to offer a historical voyage through Indian culture. You can choose from multiple itineraries. Choose as per the tapestry and culture. This ride offers two primary routes for you to select.
The first is the Heritage India option. This is a journey that links Delhi with Mumbai or vice versa. There are other highlights like Udaipur, Ranthambore, Jaisalmer, Agra, and Varanasi. The second itinerary is the Indian Panorama. This journey is also linking Mumbai and Delhi with other gem sites like Jaipur and Fatehpur Sikri.
You can also make a choice from amongst the Treasures of India, Indian Splendor itineraries. The journey takes you for a ride through Indian culture and traditions.
8. Train-off experience
The train journey offers a champagne-soaked excursion experience. You can expect a lot more compared to standard tourist visits. The management has made sure that the best private tours are organized. These are events that may not be available to the general public.
You can enjoy watching a private polo match on an elephant ride. You get a chance to be a part of the Royal dinner with the Rajasthan Royal families. You can enjoy a private boat ride on the lake. You can also enjoy Ganga Arti at the ghats. The entire event can be magical for anyone.
The future of this train journey is very bright. It can be considered a timeless journey through Indian history.
Book a fairytale journey on Maharajas' Express in advance to get the best offers.
The 7N/8D royal Tour covers the best of incredible India for memorable holidays.
Know the departure date and time of Maharajas' Express to plan your tour well.
Know the Tariff of the Peak Season ( Oct to March) & Lean Season (April & September).
