Maharajas'​​​​​​​ Express or Palace on Wheels Which Royal Journey Is for You?

Choosing between Maharajas’ Express and Palace on Wheels is easy. Please read and choose as per your wisdom

• Maharajas’ Express if you want newer, ultra-luxury cabins, multiple itineraries across India, and don’t mind paying more per night.
• Maharajas’ Express, if you prefer newer, ultra-luxury cabins with modern amenities, and don’t mind paying more per night. And also, Maharajas. Express is ideal for travellers who want multiple itineraries across different regions of India.
• Palace on Wheels if you want one classic and iconic 7-night Rajasthan destination, where you get a chance to see Forts, etc. And also, Palace on Wheels is perfect for travellers who enjoy a strong heritage ambience and traditional royal décor.

What better way to explore India than on a train? But what is even better is to travel like royalty in luxurious trains that criss-cross India. Currently, there are 4 trains giving the royal treatment to its passengers.

Key Highlights : 

We hope this blog will help you make an informed decision about which royal journey you want for your next vacation. 

India’s Long History of Train Journey

It started with the British laying the tracks and starting the first passenger train between Bombay and Thane in 1853. With that humble beginning, trains became the most used mode of transport for people. Then, about 4 and a half decades ago, the first luxury train for the public was operated. In 1982, Palace on Wheels started operating, where people could experience the luxury in which Indian royalty and British officers travelled during the pre-independence era.

A Brief Overview of Maharajas' Express and Palace on Wheels  

While both Maharajas' Express and Palace on Wheels are luxury trains, they have similarities and have a few key differences as well. A brief but comprehensive overview of both will provide you with a better understanding of which luxury train and its journey will suit you for the next outing. 

Maharajas' Express 

Maharaja’s Express is one of the most exclusive trains in India and is known for offering an experience that matches none. It was launched in 2010 by IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) in partnership with Cox & Kings. However, it ended in 2011, and since then, IRCTC has been in full control of the train. It has custom-built carriages showcasing grandeur, style and opulence. It offers lavish decor that blends well with amenities and modern facilities.

Palace on Wheels 

Indian Railway and Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation collaborated and launched the train in 1982. It became the first luxury train and now the oldest. It used the carriages abandoned by the Viceroy of India and the rulers of the princely states of Nizam of Hyderabad, Rajputana, and Gujarat after independence. 

After 1982, the train was renovated in 1996, and ensuite bathrooms were added. In 2017, new carriages with larger suites were added, and the entire train was given another facelift. Overall, this train gives the old train journey vibe.

Accommodation in Maharajas' Express & Palace on Wheels

When you are making the decision to purchase a ticket for a luxury train, one of the vital factors that should be considered is the type of accommodation it offers. While both Maharaja’s Express and Palace on Wheels are premium and high-end trains with exceptional accommodations to offer, they differ. Here are some of the highlights of each train’s living facilities. 

Maharajas' Express 

The Maharaja’s Express offers an extraordinary travel experience with comfort comparable to a 5-star hotel. There are 4 types of cabins:

• Deluxe Cabin: 120 sq. ft., double bed or twin share option.
• Junior Suite: 150 sq. ft., can be configured as double or twin.
• Suite: 220 sq. ft., includes minibar, bathtub, lounge, table/desk; including a personal chauffeur and a private guide during the tours.
• Presidential Suite: 440 sq. ft., occupying an entire car, having two bedrooms, and an ensuite bathroom; along with the personal butler, guide in the preferred language and chauffeured car for tour.

Palace on Wheels 

Initially, Palace on Wheels had a single cabin category, but in 2017, it was revamped.

• Super Deluxe Cabins were introduced.
• It featured double beds, and the cabin sizes were larger. An additional benefit of this category was the guests will get a personal chauffeur and guide. This meant they didn’t have to join the group buses during the tours. 

Cabins Difference Maharaja Express Vs Palace on Wheels

Facilities & Amenities in Maharajas' Express & Palace on Wheels 

Whether you travel by Maharajas' Express or Palace on Wheels, you will get the luxury amenities like porter services, laundry services, electronic safe, TV, and well-fitted bathrooms and restaurants.

Cost of Travelling in Maharajas' Express vs Palace on Wheels

Another aspect that factors in deciding the train of choice is the price of the ticket and what are the benefits that it entails. Factors like the season and the duration (itinerary) of the travel determine the ticket prices. However, in general, Palace on Wheels’ ticket price is cheaper than Maharaja’s Express. 

While it is not that far-fetched to state the ticket prices for both Maharaja’s Express and Palace on Wheels are quite high, here is a proper breakdown of the ticket cost for each train.

Maharajas' Express

Check out the Maharajas Express Ticket Fare journey and cabin-wise.

Palace on Wheels

Check out the Palace on Wheels Ticket Fare journey and cabin-wise.

Palace On Wheels: This costs around $600-$1,000 per night for each person, depending on the different seasons and types of cabins available.

It’s an incredible deal for a 7-day trip since it is completely inclusive.

Note: Do remember that not all the sightseeing costs are included in the ticket price. It’s best to read the itinerary and the details that mention which sights, locations, and activities are included in the ticket prices. 

Itineraries of Maharajas' Express and Palace on Wheels

When you want to purchase a ticket for Maharajas' Express or the Palace on Wheels, you must consider the places it will take you. While the train journey and the experience are of importance, the places it will take you and the sights you can visit can be a determining factor, too. It’s best to know the routes and the itinerary of both trains to make the best decision. 

Maharajas' Express Itineraries

This train offers 4 different journeys with different itineraries and durations. They are:

The Heritage India: 6 nights and 7 days.

Travelling from Mumbai to Delhi. The route is Mumbai – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Bikaner – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Delhi.

The Indian Panorama: 6 nights and 7 days.

Travelling from Delhi and returning to Delhi. The route is Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore and Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Orchha and Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi. 

The Indian Splendour: 6 nights and 7 days.

Travelling from Delhi to Mumbai. The route is Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Mumbai. 

Treasures of India: 3 nights and 4 days.

Travelling from Delhi and returning to Delhi. The route is Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi. 

Palace on Wheels Itinerary

Palace on Wheels offers only one route covering quite a few destinations. The travel duration is for 7 nights and 8 days. The journey starts and ends in Delhi. The route of the journey is Delhi – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi. 

Which Train Should You Select?

Confused between whether to book tickets for Maharaja’s Express or Palace on Wheels?

Decide on the following factors: 

Where do you want to travel? 

If you want to experience Mumbai, Rajasthan, Central India, and Varanasi, then Maharaja’s Express is for you. But if you want to enjoy Rajasthan and Agra extensively, then Palace on Wheels should be your choice. 

For how many days do you want to travel? 

Have limited time and still want to enjoy the opulence of royalty, then book Maharajas' Express for 3 nights, 4 days. But if you have the time to enjoy luxury them you can opt for either the Maharaja’s Express or the Palace on Wheels. The final decision will be on the amount you want to spend and the places you want to visit. 

Do you like classic or modern style?

Enjoy the royal charm, original royal items, antiques, salons, nostalgia, and the typical movement of the train journey with the Palace on Wheels.  

Maharaja's Express offers an opulent experience with contemporary style, a personalised butler, high-tech equipment, and smooth travel at night, thanks to the latest train suspension technology. 

How to Book? 

We have been specialising in booking luxury trains in India for years. We keep in contact with the respective operators to ensure hassle-free booking for any luxury trains in India. All you have to do is follow these steps:

• Send us an enquiry with your details, the train you want to travel on, and any other queries you have.
• Based on your inquiry, we will give you the details like quotation, routes, fares, cabin types, trains, and other suggestions.
• Once you select the dates, routes, trains, cabin types, and other requirements, we will give you a refined quote.
• After you approve, we will hold the cabins for you for certain days and will secure them once you make the payment.
• Once the booking is done, you will receive the confirmation email along with a detailed itinerary, emergency contacts, packing tips, and more
• We then provide you with pre-departure support with health insurance, visa application, and other advice.

Make Your Next Trip Memorable!

Are you planning your next vacation somewhere special? It’s time to travel in India in royal style with the Maharajas' Express or Palace on Wheels. Both offer extraordinary experiences and help you to feel the true essence of Indian royalty, luxury, and opulence. Both are extremely safe for solo travellers and offer curated service for people who want to enjoy their honeymoon or anniversary. 

Understand and feel India that many can only dream of. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today, and we will help you to make a journey that is filled with wonderful memories and see true India and its royal traditions, cuisine, and culture.