From Palaces to Peaks: Top Luxury Trains in India and Their Unmissable Routes

Imagine travelling through India’s landscapes in a moving palace, where the journey is more spectacular than the destination. Luxury trains in India offer more than just transit, it is an immersive experience with royal suites, exquisite dining, and handpicked itineraries that showcase the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From the desert city of Rajasthan on the Palace on Wheels to the scenic backwaters of south on the Golden Chariot, these luxury train rides in India offer an extensive experience of relaxation that’s way much better than any 5-star hotels. Embark on a luxury train holiday in India where breathtaking landscapes, age-old forts, and starry-sky dining turn travel into pure enchantment. With each sight seamlessly woven into the journey, the luxury trains in India have redefined elegance on the rails.

Maharajas’ Express

Maharajas’ Express is the epitome of elegance and luxury, taking guests on a journey fit for royalty. The Maharajas’ Express, one of India’s most well-known luxury trains, proudly features four distinctive routes that highlight the natural and cultural beauty of India. With top-notch infrastructure and services, The Maharajas’ Express has managed to be in the lists of best luxury trains in the world, along with several awards to its name. This train has four types of rooms: Deluxe, Junior Suite, Suite and Presidential Suite, all featuring beautiful furniture, traditional design and cutting-edge technology. Whether it’s exquisite cuisine or an ethnic touch, the entire journey is set to experience the luxury of India – the Indian way.

Routes:

• Heritage of India (6 Nights/7 Days): Mumbai – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Bikaner – Jaipur – Ranthambore and Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Delhi
• Indian Panorama (6 Nights/7 Days): Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore and Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Orchha and Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi
• Indian Splendour (6 Nights/ 7 Days): Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Mumbai
• Treasures of India (3 Nights/4 Days): Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi

Destinations: This luxury train in India visits Rajasthan’s grand forts, historic palaces, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and natural beauties like the tiger haven of Ranthambore National Park. Expect stunning views, cultural performances, and trips to vibrant bazaars that highlight India’s royal past.

Prices: Tariffs start at Rs. 3.97 Lakh per person. The cost varies according to the season, route, and choice of accommodation, with premium charges for suites. Each route offers unique services tailored for guests seeking royal luxury and comfort.

The Golden Chariot

The Golden Chariot provides an enchanting journey through South India with its architectural beauty, scenic views, and World Heritage Sites as its attractions. The glorious train begins its journey from Bangalore. It is an ideal option for first time travellers to South India’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and heritage monuments. Inspired by Mysore’s royal heritage, the interiors feature intricate woodwork, elegant furnishings, and decor evoking the grandeur of southern palaces. The train also offers fine dining restaurants, lounges, and Ayurvedic spas, making it a unique choice for those in search of a train holiday with a wellness aspect.

Routes:

• Pride of Karnataka (5 Nights/6 Days): Bengaluru – Nanjangud – Mysore – Halebidu – Chikmagalur – Hospet – Goa – Bengaluru
• Glimpses of Karnataka (3 Nights/4 Days): Bengaluru – Nanjangud – Mysore – Hospet – Bengaluru
• Jewels of South (5 Nights/6 Days): Bengaluru – Mysore – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram – Thanjavur – Chettinad/Karaikudi – Cochin – Cherthala/Mararikulam – Bengaluru

Destinations: Do not expect an ordinary tour but rather a mix of beautiful temples, historical places, lovely beaches in Goa and picturesque tea gardens in Chikmagalur. One can indulge in the excursions to several famous centres such as ruins of Hampi, palaces in Mysore, Backwaters of Kerala and experience the cultural blend that South India offers. 

Prices: The Golden Chariot is priced is around Rs 16,000 per person per night, fluctuating according to the season and type of accommodation provided. Inclusive of meals, excursions and some leisure activities making it within reach and yet an enjoyable luxury.

The Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey takes you back to the 16th century as it is famous for its grand tour through the central and western parts of India. The journey begins in Mumbai, and traverses through lush greenery, hilly areas and beautiful geographical landmarks. This luxury train in India has a striking royal blue exterior and offers top-notch amenities, including multi-cuisine restaurant, a spa, a bar, and even a conference room. The interiors, inspired by the Deccan dynasties, exude historical grandeur with contemporary luxury.

Routes:

• Heritage Odyssey (7 Nights / 8 Days): Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Delhi
• Cultural Odyssey (7 Nights / 8 Days): Delhi – Sawai Madhopur – Jaipur – Agra – Gwalior – Orchha – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi
• Indian Sojourn Journey (7 Nights / 8 Days): Mumbai – Vadodara – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Agra – Sawai Madhopur – Jaipur – Delhi
• Maharashtra Wild Trail Journey (7 Nights / 8 Days): Mumbai – Aurangabad – Pench – Tadoba – Ajanta – Nashik – Mumbai

Destinations: The routes include major places of Maharashtra including Mumbai, Nashik, Goa & multicultural places like Varanasi, Agra etc. Alongside sightseeing, guests can participate in curated excursions to historical landmarks, wildlife reserves, and spiritual hubs.

Prices: The Deccan Odyssey starts from about INR 4.27 Lakh per person, but this price will depend on the season, route, or type of cabin. All rates inclusive packages make this high-end experience superb as this includes food, visiting sights, and several onboard activities as well.

Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels magnificently captures Rajasthan’s regal allure, taking guests on a journey through the state’s most historic locales. This luxury train was once fit only for the kings of Gujrat and Nizams of Hyderabad and was then renovated in 2009 and now combines modern comfort with classic elegance. Named to honour the forts and palaces of Rajasthan, the train is an immersive experience, with upscale dining, lounge bars, and a spa. It’s perfect for those who wish to experience India by train in a setting that reflects the country’s rich history.

Route:

• Delhi – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur & Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi (7 Nights/8 Days)

Destinations: Travellers embarking on this journey will be satisfied with a full eleven-day Rajasthan tour with sessions focusing on Jaipur’s forts, Jaisalmer’s barren golden desert, Udaipur’s gorgeous lakes, fortresses of Jodhpur. All of these places are carefully organized with excursions, having expert guides who explain all the details around the tourist spot and its importance.

Prices: The Palace on Wheels has a price starting from approximately Rs. 3.63 Lakh and offers a selection of elegant cabins and suites. Depending on the type of cabin chosen, the prices include meals, guided trips, and certain onboard facilities for an entire luxurious experience

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is a timeless journey that showcases Rajasthan’s vivid culture, majestic forts, and intricate palaces. Among the luxury trains in India, this train is decorated with royal hues has managed to blend the rich Rajput architecture with some of the modern day facilities like plush lounges and fine dining. From the moment on board, it feels quite a luxurious experience guided with unique service and cultural experiences.

Route:

• Delhi – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Chittorgarh – Sawai Madhopur – Jaipur – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Agra – Delhi (7 Nights/8 Days)

Destinations: The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels tours takes guests to some of India’s most beautiful sights which include Udaipur’s grand palaces to the holy city of Varanasi as well as the leading forts of Jaipur. During this journey, the guests will appreciate specially prepared tours, national shows, and other active participation in events that will bring Rajasthan’s history to life.

Prices: The approximate starting price for this train ride is Rs. 3.78 Lakh and contains a package of meals, sightseeing activities, and some luxury services. Prices vary according to cabin choice and season, ensuring a range of luxury options suited to different preferences.