India’s luxury trains date back to colonial times, when ornate carriages transported dignitaries, officials and royalty.
More trains were built in the 19th century for the country’s maharajas and other ruling elites and their families.
After India’s independence in 1947, private purse (i.e., government payments to these rulers) came to an end. India’s luxury train carriages are abandoned because there is no money to maintain them.
Indian Railways, part of India’s national railway system, has refurbished a number of trains over the years, with the first train making its debut in the 1980s. These trains were launched to promote Indian tourism and provide tourists with a unique and enriching way to experience the country.
Combining historical elegance with modern comfort, these trains offer a glimpse into India’s glorious past.
Note to travelers: The tour company’s website appears to be the official website for the train in this article and sometimes sells tours at higher prices. The official website for each train is embedded in the link.
1. Palace on Wheels
Route: An eight-day journey through northwest India, including the country’s “Golden Triangle” of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra
Price: From $864 (based on two sharing)
Operating time: September to April
Launched in 1982, palace on wheels It is the symbol of luxury train travel in India. The train travels along the northern region of India, passing through Rajasthan and Agra, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the royal days of yesteryear, enjoy sunsets on the sand dunes, go on camel safaris, and visit the palaces and historic palaces of Rajasthan fortress.
A peek inside the dining car and carriages reveals the ornate details found on the Indian Palace Train.
Source: Palace on Wheels
It has 14 carriages, each named after the state of Rajasthan, and has 41 carriages with panoramic windows, ornate carpets, frescoed ceilings, mahogany paneling and en suite bathrooms. The two “super deluxe” cabins also come with noteworthy perks: a private car and a tour guide.
The train’s two dining cars serve Indian, Continental and Italian cuisine, and there is a separate bar serving cocktails and drinks. Active guests can work out at the gym, while those who prefer relaxation can book Ayurvedic treatments at the spa.
2. Golden Chariot
Itinerary: Three itineraries, ranging from three to five nights, across southern India
Price: From $3,160 per person (based on two sharing)
Operating time: October to March
Launched in 2008, golden chariot Travel across southern India via historic towns, sunny beaches, jungle-covered hills, temples and safari. It has 18 purple and gold carriages, each named after a South Indian dynasty.
Cottages come with en-suite bathrooms, smart TVs, Wi-Fi and attendants.Two dining cars serve local and international cuisine, and the train’s lounge bar, Madira, has a décor inspired by mysore palace.
The hotel also has a gym and a spa offering traditional Indian and modern massage treatments.
All journeys start and end in Bangalore.
3. Deccan Odyssey
Routes: Six one-week itineraries from Mumbai and Delhi
Price: From $8,330 for single occupancy, from $11,900 for double occupancy
Operating time: September to May
this Deccan Odyssey – In operation since 2004 – It feels like a mobile hotel.
Its 21 carriages feature high-tech meeting spaces, a spa, a souvenir shop, a gym and a bar serving fine wines and spirits as well as mocktails. Cars twelve are sleeper cars equipped with personal butlers, plush carpets, private bathrooms and modern amenities such as internet and DVD players.
One of two restaurants aboard the Deccan Odyssey, open from September to May.
According to reports, the train was renovated during the Covid-19 pandemic and reopened in 2023. Gas stoves were replaced with gas stoves in the carriages and a suspension system was added to make the journey smoother. Times of India.
The two on-board restaurants – Waavar and Utsav – are another highlight, offering specialties from the regions the train passes through. Ornate drapes, crisp linens, carved wood paneling and fine silverware add to the royal aesthetic.
This journey also incorporates cultural experiences. Passengers might admire ancient Indian architecture one day, wine tasting or go on a safari the next.
4. Maharaja Express
Itineraries: Four itineraries, ranging from three to six nights, departing from Delhi and Mumbai
Price: From $4,890 per person (based on two sharing)
Operating time: October to April
The combination of luxurious interiors and traditional Indian royal hospitality won the favor of 23 carriages Maharaja Express Since its launch in 2010, it has won many awards.
Passengers can choose from four room types in 14 cabins, the largest of which is the Presidential Suite, which features two bedrooms, a living room and a bathroom with bathtub.
Indian cuisine is served in one of the dining cars aboard the luxury Maharajas’ Express ship.
Sergi Reboredo | Volkswagen Photos | Universal Image Group | Getty Images
There are two restaurants to choose from – the peacock-themed Mayur Mahal and Rang Mahal – suitable for vegetarians and meat lovers.
Travelers can sip cocktails at the Safari Bar or enjoy a quieter environment at the Rajah Lounge, where they can play games or read while admiring the passing scenery.
Stops along the way highlight Indian culture and history, including holy baths in the sacred ghats, jungle safaris, palace and temple visits, and shopping in bustling bazaars.
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