When it comes to seeking royal experiences and world-class service, there's no place like India. This culturally rich country is home to palaces, forts, castles and luxury rides. These train rides are not just a luxury but also deliver the kind of majestic experience that will make you feel like a VIP. So if you want to explore incredible India on one of these luxury train rides, read on to find out what experiences they offer.
Maharajas' Express, the world's leading luxury train, blends royalty, luxury, and culture into a once-in-a-lifetime travel journey. This train is decorated with the opulence of a bygone royal era. Think red carpets, high teas and regal décor.
The cabins have lavish wardrobes, climate control, a minibar, Wi-Fi, an LCD TV with a DVD player and en-suite bathrooms. Some cabins even include full bathtubs. There are two royal dining cars, which are Rang Mahal (Colour Palace) and Mayur Mahal (Peacock Palace).
You get to dine like kings and queens as your dishes are served in Limoges plates edged with gold, Swarovski crystal glasses, and monogrammed cutlery. For leisurely experiences, unwind at Rajah Club a lounge car where you can read, play board games and shop for souvenirs.
You get to visit four of India's most iconic destinations, where you experience the country's compelling traditions in style as well as admire some of its incredible wildlife.
6 nights / 7 days: Deluxe Cabin from $7,800 pp | Junior Suite from $10,000 pp | Presidential Suite from $25,000 pp 3 nights / 4 days (Treasures of India): Deluxe Cabin from $4,900 pp
Experience India on one of the most extraordinary royal rides, the Palace on Wheels. The decoration of this train replicates the original royal cabins used by the maharajas and viceroys during the British Raj, giving it a more vintage and historical ambience.
Each coach in the Palace on Wheels has its own individual theme. The rooms are traditionally decorated to reflect the aesthetic styles of various royal Rajasthani states. Throughout the journey, you will have a personal attendant, or "khidmatgar," to cater to all your needs, making you feel like a VIP.
Indulge in fancy delights at the classy Maharaja and Maharani restaurants, and sip in style at the elegant bar. There is also an on-board Ayurvedic spa and massage to rejuvenate you.
You can explore India without hassle with the Palace on Wheels. You get to experience a thrilling jungle safari where you can spot animals like the Royal Bengal Tiger, leopards, and sloth bears. Guided tours will take you through Rajasthan’s magnificent forts and palaces in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.
7 nights / 8 days itinerary
Double Occupancy: From USD 976 per person per night
Single Occupancy: From USD 1,501 per person per night
Presidential Suite: From USD 3,510 per cabin per night
Total journey cost: From ~USD 6,832 per person
(International traveller rates; Indian nationals/OCI pay in INR. A 5% GST applies.)
The Deccan Odyssey will lavishly escort you to a wide range of destinations across western, central, and parts of southern India. When it comes to decoration, think royal elegance and modern luxury. Deccan Odyssey has a striking blue exterior and is often referred to as 'blue limo'.
Every comfortable air-conditioned coupé has its own bathroom with a shower, Wi-Fi, a secure safe, and panoramic windows. Relax and enjoy your scenic journey while a personalised butler attends to all your needs. The on-board catering, Waavar and Utsav restaurants, managed by Taj Hotels, ensure a five-star quality dining experience. You can socialise and sip premium wines and cocktails in the stylish Mumbai Hi bar.
Deccan Odyssey also has an onboard wellness car where you can enjoy an Ayurvedic massage and continue your workout at the mini gym. There is also a lounge, business centre, and indoor games to keep you engaged throughout your journey.
While most tours are -preplanned, the Deccan Odyssey offers flexibility to those who want to explore independently. Beyond the standard sightseeing and cultural performances, you get to uncover India's exclusive beaches and historic treasures. You also have the chance to experience wine tasting in Nashik.
7 nights / 8 days (various itineraries)
Deluxe Cabin (Twin/Double): From USD 6,650 pp (USD 13,300 per cabin)
Deluxe Cabin (Single Occupancy): From USD 9,330 per cabin
The Golden Chariot travels through South India. You get to explore destinations like Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Goa. The interiors of this train blend Dravidian artistry with South India's palace-inspired luxury, reflecting royal elegance, while the exterior features a vibrant gold and purple theme.
The Golden Chariot features 44 air-conditioned cabins that come with en-suite bathrooms, LCD televisions, and Wi-Fi. The Golden Chariot has two fine-dining restaurants called Nalapaka and Ruchi, which resemble the Halebidu and Hampi temples. The restaurant serves delicious and high-quality South Indian cuisine.
Like other royal trains, there is a lounge bar along with health and wellness cars offering massages and a mini-gym. There is also on-board South Indian cultural entertainment ranging from traditional music to Bharatanatyam. Private events can be hosted too, as there is a conference car for business travellers.
While other luxury trains in India offer organised tours and sightseeing, the Golden Chariot sets itself apart with an exclusive focus on southern India. You can enjoy a peaceful houseboat ride through Kerala's backwaters and also explore the coastal heritage of Goa.
5 nights / 6 days (Pride of Karnataka / Jewels of South): From USD 4,740 pp | Single Supplement from USD 3,560 pp
3 nights / 4 days (Glimpses of Karnataka): From USD 3,160 pp | Single Supplement from USD 2,370 pp
These are the top luxury trains in India offering prestigious rail adventures. You get to immerse yourself in the rich Indian culture and explore the country's natural beauty and thriving wildlife.
Want the full royal feel? Take a look at the latest palace hotels in India in the link below.