Maharajas' Express

This article is an itinerary. Maharajas' Express Rail Journeys is an Itinerary in India. In a world of cramped and unpleasant luxury of planes, luxury cruise trains actually may be the last respite of luxury. Sensing this demand, luxury travel companies like Orient Express have invested in restoring the world's most famous train routes. Maharajas Express is one such attempt to recreate the pageantry and elegance of the personal state carriages of colonial era maharajas of India. And travelers are responding by packing new trains. Setting new benchmarks in luxury train traveling since its inception in 2010, Maharajas Express [1] offer 5 pan-Indian itineraries cutting across state borders and covering some of the most prominent tourist destinations in India. The itineraries of this Indian luxury train are tastefully pre-packaged to offer a peek into the rich culture and heritage of India along with a dash of wildlife and unique insider experiences. Catering to the seekers of luxury and indulgence Maharajas Express arrives at a new destination every morning for off-train excursions which may include visit to monuments, heritage sites, shopping, royal dining at palaces and courtyard of mighty forts and spa session at palace hotels. The 8 day Mumbai to Delhi trip crisscrosses through the western part of the country (Mumbai) with sightseeing halts at Ajanta, Udaipur palaces, an elephant polo match near Jaipur and a tiger safari through Ranthambore National Park. Passengers aboard the 8 day Delhi-to-Delhi trip visit dozens of sites in eastern and central India including the temples of Khajuraho, 'City of Nawabs' Lucknow and the sacred ghats of River Ganges in Varanasi. All 5 itineraries - which include 2 golden triangle tours - either begin or end with a visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra. Understand History Imagine going to school in your very own toy train – A miniature version of the Royal Scotsman. Well that’s what the royal prince got as a birthday gift to ferry him from the palace to his school. The passion for and fascination with James Watt's creation among Maharajas of India was intense. Maharaja Pratapsinh Gaekwad of Vadodara gifted his five year old son – current maharaja of Vadodara - a fully functional toy train that ran on a ten inch narrow gauge. Maharaja of Gwalior had a silver model train chugging along the center piece on his banqueting table. The personal carriage built by Gloucester Railway Carriage and Wagon Company in 1936 for Maharaja of Indore – Yeshwant Rao Holkar – was considered to be the most luxurious railway carriage ever built. It also happened to be the largest ever rail carriage to be constructed in Britain at that time and such was the attention to detail that it also had air blown over ice to keep the carriage cool in the tropical climes. The Nizam of Hyderabad’s private railway car was covered with thin strip of ivory whereas as a young prince, Madhav Rao Scindia of Gwalior had his father build a two mile track on his palace grounds. Maharajas of India were a world and breed apart from the rest. Born into royalty and adorned with diamonds and gold, money was never an object when it came to acquiring their fancy. It’s not every day that a train earns itself the name Maharajas Express. Fourteen guest carriages equipped with state of the art amenities, two dining cars with seating capacity of 42 each, a suave bar and an observation lounge with library and personal bar, Maharajas Express offer veritably royal tours across tastefully pre selected destinations in India. This luxury tourist train offers three distinct journeys which are named Royal India, Classical India and Princely India respectively. Various destinations covered during these journeys include Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Bandhavgarh, Khajuraho, Gwalior, Vadodara, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur and Ranthambore. Facilities Maharajas Express comes equipped with modern amenities to offer luxurious on board stay to the guests. The train has restaurants, bar, lounges, library, souvenir shop etc. to keep the guest entertained. Cabin facilities include individual climate control, tv, phones, smoke alarm and attached bathrooms with showers. Carriages The train comprises of 24 carriages which include accommodation, dining, bar, lounge, generator and store cars. Accommodation is available in 14 guest carriages with total passenger capacity of 88. The accommodations on board are categorized as deluxe cabins, junior suites, suites and a grand presidential suite spanning over entire carriage. Each guest carriage has been designed to recreate the opulence of Maharaja Style living. Elegantly decorated, the interiors of the cabins exude the finesse of exquisite workmanship. Sylvan parquets, intricate carvings and palette of soft hues characterize the interiors of the train. Carriages are fitted with panoramic windows to offer the vista of rolling landscape as train travels through some of the most fascinating landscapes and countryside of India. The train also has an observation lounge called the Rajah Club with a private bar and library. Besides these cars the train also has two elegantly appointed dining cars that offer an array of sumptuous cuisine to the guests. The Bar of the train serves an eclectic mix of wines from across the world in a serene and relaxing ambience. A high-end boutique in the train houses some perfect and intimate memorabilia to cherish this royal sojourn for a life time. Guest cabins 14 carriages with 43 exquisitely finished cabins provides seating/sleeping capacity to 88 guests. There are 20 Deluxe Cabins, 18 Junior Suites, 4 Suites and a plush Presidential Suite offering elegant living comparable to 5 star living. Live television, eco-friendly washrooms, direct dial phones, DVD player, internet, individual climate control and electronic safe are available in each guest cabin. 4 categories of accommodation offer plush living to the guests and each of them are equipped with latest in technology. Cabins of Maharajas Express are also equipped with 110/230 V sockets. Cabin Configuration 5 Deluxe Cars 6 Junior Suite Cars 2 Suite Cars 1 Presidential Suite car 1 Bar car and 1 Lounge Car 2 Restaurant cars 1 Kitchen Car1 Staff Coach 1 Executive Managers & Tour Managers Coach Room Category Twin Double Total Cabins/Suites Passenger Capacity Deluxe Cabins 15 5 20 40 Junior Suites 12 6 18 26 Suites - 4 4 8 Presidential Suite - - 4 4 Total 27 15 43 88 Deluxe Cabins There are 5 carriages in the category of Deluxe Cabin. A total of 20 cabins of Maharajas Express offer accommodation to a maximum of 40 passengers during each journey. To accommodate the guests, there are 15 Twin cabins (capacity 2, beds 1) and 5 double cabins (capacity 2, beds 2). Junior Suites There are a total of 18 cabins in the category of Junior Suites. Offering maximum passenger capacity of 36, these spacious suites are tastefully appointed to offer plush living. There are 12 Twin Cabins and 6 Double cabins on the train. Suites 4 elegantly decorated and plush suites offer sumptuous accommodation to the guest in their tastefully furnished interiors equipped with modern amenities. All suites come with double bed with a maximum capacity of 8 passengers. Presidential Suite First of its kind in the world, the lavish Presidential suite of the Maharajas Express is built on an entire rail carriage. A separate sitting cum dining room and a spacious bedroom add to the finer aspects of luxury rail traveling. The washroom of the presidential suite on board Maharajas Express is equipped with bathtubs and shower to add to the panache and pampering. The suite can accommodate up to 4 guests. Dining & Bar Coaches Dining on board Maharajas Express is a gourmet delight. There are two dining cars in the coach, each with a seating capacity of 42 guests at a time. Whereas wines and beers are served a la carte, food offered is mostly table d’hôte (included in the price of the journey). The restaurants are named Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal. Mayur Mahal (the Peacock restaurant) has peacock feather theme in its décor. Menu in the restaurant include traditional Indian cuisines along with Continental, Chinese and International cuisines. A well stocked bar with house brands of wines, liqueurs, spirits and beers is also present in Maharajas Express. A variety of snacks and starters are also served for the platter of guests along with drinks in the laid back Safari Bar designed to reflect the aspects of nonchalant leisure and luxury. When to visit Maharajas Express signature journeys are not conducted between May-September. But the train is available for charter throughout the year. Prepare Visa requirements The passport you carry must have a minimum validity of six months for entry into India and it is also required of you to be in possession of a valid single or multiple entry visa based on your number of entries into India. There are no provisions for visa upon arrival and the necessary visa required for journey has to be processed from the Indian Embassy or Indian High Commission in your country of origin. On the train The fare of Maharajas Express covers most of the cost of your journey. It includes dining, soft drinks, House brands of alcoholic beverages, butler service and your accommodation. Long distance call charges made using the telephone facility on board is not covered in the cost of journey. Off the Train Your cost of journey in Maharajas Express include guided off train excursions. Entrance fees, still camera fees, transport, complimentary tea, porter charges at stations. Price for video, film and professional still camera fees are not included in the cost of journey and have to be paid over and above the fare. Pre and Post tour hotel accommodation It is highly recommended that you take a minimum of one pre and post night accommodation with your rail journey. Booking, reservation and any assistance related to Maharajas Express journey could be found at the official website of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation(IRCTC) or from the website of Maharajas Express. International and domestic flights Flights are not included in the cost of Maharajas Express booking presently but information on schedules, fares and even assist with the bookings, if required could be found on the above mentioned websites. Personal travel insurance It is strongly recommend that you have adequate travel insurance cover from your country of domicile for injury, illness, death, accident, loss of effects or luggage and holiday cancellation. Child Policy Maharajas' Express does accommodate children but parents should be mindful of the sophisticated adult atmosphere which is maintained on board. Children below 5 years shall be allowed free, subject to sharing of double bed with parents. This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking. This option is not recommended by the official tour operators. Single child (5 years - 12 years) charge is 50% of the adult fare, subject to sharing of double bed with parents. This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking. Two children travelling with parents will be accommodated in a separate cabin, where first child pays 50% of the adult fare and the second child will have to pay the adult cost. Please note that the facility for interconnecting cabins is not available except in the Presidential Suite car. Cost of Journey The Indian Splendor(8 days/7 nights) Cabin (Adult) (single supplement) (child) Deluxe Cabin Twin USD 5560 USD 4193 USD 2780 Junior Suite USD 8800 USD 7920 USD 4400 Suite USD 12800 USD 12800 USD 6400 Presidential Suite USD 22000 USD 22000 USD 11000 The Indian Panorama(8 days/7 nights) Cabin (Adult) (Single Supplement) (Child) Deluxe Cabin Twin USD 5560 USD 4193 USD 2780 Junior Suite USD 8800 USD 7920 USD 4400 Suite USD 12800 USD 12800 USD 6400 Presidential Suite USD 22000 USD 22000 USD 11000 Treasures of India (4 days/3 nights) Cabin (Adult) (Single Supplement) (Child) Deluxe Cabin Twin USD 3580 USD 2700 USD 1790 Junior Suite USD 4600 USD 4140 USD 2300 Suite USD 7000 USD 7000 USD 3500 Presidential Suite USD 12000 USD 12000 USD 6000 The Heritage of India (8 days/7 nights) Cabin (Adult) (Single Supplement) (Child) Deluxe Cabin Twin USD 6360 USD 4193 USD 3180 Junior Suite USD 9200 USD 7920 USD 4600 Suite USD 12800 USD 12800 USD 6400 Presidential Suite USD 22000 USD 22000 USD 11000 Gems of India (4 days/3 nights) Cabin (Adult) (Single Supplement) (Child) Deluxe Cabin Twin USD 3580 USD 2700 USD 1790 Junior Suite USD 4600 USD 4140 USD 2300 Suite USD 7000 USD 7000 USD 3500 Presidential Suite USD 12000 USD 12000 USD 6000 Terms and Conditions 1.Price is per person per journey basis 2.For child policy refer above. 3.Government service tax of 3.09% as per current rates will be charged extra 4.Prices are subject to change in case of any change or amendment in the itinerary or routing 5.10% surcharge extra on departures falling during Christmas & New Year Please note all bookings confirmed are non-transferable and will invite a cancellation charge as applicable. 90 days prior to departure date 25% of the published tour cost 89 - 60 days prior to departure date 50% of the published tour cost 59 - 0 days prior to departure date 100% of the published tour cost No Show 100% of the published tour cost Get in Maharajas Express journey begins either from Mumbai or Delhi. Depending upon your location and nationality, there are an array of options available to reach Mumbai and Delhi. Both of these cities are well connected through air, road and rail and direct flights from major destinations in the world are available. You might also want to check out Delhi and Mumbai page to see the details of how to get in those city. Itineraries The Indian Splendor The Indian Splendor itinerary takes the guest on a 168 hours luxury ride across the desert realm of Rajasthan, India's very own Jurassic Park Balasinor and Agra beginning from Delhi and conluding the Indian Splendor itinerary in 'City of Dreams' Mumbai. Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights Destinations: Delhi - Agra - Ranthambore - Jaipur - Bikaner - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Balasinor- Mumbai Day 1 Boarding at Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi - Agra Arrive at railway station for your check in formalities A royal welcome in traditional Indian style will greet you at the station, Sip on your welcome drink even as formalities are completed The train will depart for Agra at 2200 hours Relax and recuperate in the plush coupes of the train after a delectable dining in restaurants of the train Day 2 Agra Arrive in Agra early in the morning and pay an early morning visit to Taj Mahal, a jewel of Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site An endearing breakfast session with champagne at the Taj Khema overlooking Taj Mahal constitute the highlight of the day Afterwards you have option of either having a spa session at a 5 star hotel or local sightseeing tours to Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb and Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site After a shopping jaunt, return to train for dinner and overnight stay as the train leaves for Ranthambore National Park, the next destination of the Royal India tour Day 3 Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore National Park) - Jaipur A thrilling game safari to Ranthambore National Park in the morning Departure to Jaipur after a lavish brunch on board the train after jungle safari Upon arrival, shopping and local sightseeing along with a guided countryside excursion and a Exhibition Elephant Polo Match Return to train for dinner and overnight stay Day 4 Bikaner After morning breakfast, a tour to the majestic Junagarh Fort Post lunch, an excursion to the rural landscape and a camel safari around the undulating sand dunes. Later savor the traditional Kalbeliyas and Langaas over refreshing sips of champagne in the sand dunes Dinner and overnight stay aboard the train Day 5 Jodhpur After an unhurried breakfast, go on a jeep safari to Bishnoi’s abode Rohet for a cultural experience. Rohet is a haven for Black Buck Antelope. Lunch at Rohet Garh Post-lunch expedition to Mehrangarh Fort Later return to train for Dinner and overnight stay Day 6 Udaipur After a leisurely breakfast, embark on local sightseeing of majestic Udaipur After a sumptuous lunch, a guided walking tour of old bazaar of Udaipur Dinner and overnight stay onboard the train Day 7 Balasinor Trip to the Dinosaur Park Later a village tour for a peek into the local culture and traditions A meeting with royal family followed by lunch Dinner and overnight stay onboard the train Day 8 Mumbai Bid adieu to Maharajas Express Indian Splendor itinerary on the eighth day of your itinerary The Indian Panorama Discover the varied colours of India and relive the rich heritage in this itinerary which takes you through some splendid cities housing historical landmarks and illuminating landscapes. The journey includes a trip to Varanasi, a spiritual and ancient city in India along with the ancient caves of Khajuraho and the Taj Mahal as well as an excursion to Bandhavgarh National Park. Maharajas' Express Indian Panorama itinerary promises an unforgettable voyage across the sacred and celebrated destinations in India. Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights Destinations: Delhi - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra - Gwalior - Orchha - Khajuraho - Varanasi - Lucknow - Delhi Day 1 - Delhi - Jaipur Depart for Jaipur in the afternoon Day 2 - Delhi - Jaipur Arrive in Jaipur and proceed to sightseeing of mighty Amber Fort followed by exhibition elephant polo match Later a tour of City Palace and the Royal Observatory In the evening go for shopping in colorful bazaars of Jaipur or optionally guest may choose to play golf or a rejuvenating spa session in luxury heritage hotel Return to train for stay overnight and onward journey Day 3 - Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri Early morning wildlife safari in Ranthambore National Park Return to Maharajas Express for lunch Arrive in Fatehpur Sikri in the second half of the day where you'll be taken on sightseeing tour of World Heritage 'ghost town' Fatehpur Sikri Dinner and overnight stay onboard the train Day 4 – Agra- Gwalior An early morning trip to Taj Mahal, one of the seven modern wonders of the world A champagne breakfast atop Taj Khema Later return to train for onward journey to Gwalior Visit the Gwalior Fort which houses an array of monumets and musuems Lunch will be arranged in Usha Kiran Palace Return to train after Hi Tea in Palace compound Day 5 – Orchha - Khajuraho Explore the sleepy little hamlet of Orchha in the morning Later, an expedition to Khajuraho Group of Monuments which are recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site After lunch, a guided village excursion to acquaint you with local customs Light and sound show in the evening at Khajuraho Day 6 - Varanasi Local sightseeing in the morning Post Lunch excursion to Sarnath Later scenic cruise on the sacred Ganges followed by mystical evening Aarti Day 7 - Lucknow Morning arrival in Lucknow Local sightseeing includes visit to Residency, Bada Imambara and Rumi Darwaza This evening you will be transported into the glorious era of the Nawabs of Awadh as you experience the traditional hospitality typical to the Royal Houses, celebrating an ‘Indian Evening’ at the residence of Maharaja of Kotwara. The mesmerising music, exquisite courtesan dance and the Royal Culinary Delights from the Nawabi kitchens – all combine to bring alive the elegance and charm of the Nawabi era. Overnight stay onboard Day 8 - Delhi Bid adieu to the Indian Splendor journey on board Maharajas Express Gems of India A golden triangle tour itinerary offering tours to Agra, Jaipur and Delhi with a dash of wildlife in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. Be a witness to the fascinating treasures of Mughal and Rajput architecture as you visit some of the most astounding creations of Mughals and Rajput warrior princes. Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights Destinations: Delhi - Agra - Ranthambore - Jaipur - Delhi Day 1 Delhi After a red carpet welcome, board the train for 72 hours saga of romance and adventure in sheer opulence. The train will arrive in Agra in the second half of the day wherin guests will be taken on the sightseeing tour of Agra Fort Later enjoy a champagne evening before returning back to the pampering of Maharajas Express Day 2 Agra - Ranthambore An early morning trip to World Heritage Taj Mahal is on the cards today Later return to train for onward journey to Ranthambore National Park Enjoy an evening safari in Ranthambore National Park which is considered to be the best place in India to spot tiger in their natural habitat Later return to the train for onward journey Dinner will be served on board Day 3 Jaipur Today's sightseeing activities include trip to Amber Fort, City Palace and Royal Observatory Post lunch, guests have option to choose from shopping, golf or spa Return to train for dinner and overnight stay Heritage of India Walk down the history lane as you step into a bygone era of princely splendour of colonial India on this memorable journey. Rub shoulders with the local culture and varied colours of India in this unforgettable sojourn. The itinerary includes the lake city Udaipur, the royal city Jaipur, UNESCO World Heritage Site Taj Mahal, rock cut caves of Ajanta and the city of dreams and financial capital of India, Mumbai. Discover the vibrant heritage of India as you embark on local sightseeing tours suffused with cultural hubbub of the destinations included in this itinerary. Maharajas' Express Heritage of India Journey will ensure that you taste the true colors of royal heritage of India in luxury and elegance akin to a maharaja himself. Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights Destinations: Mumbai - Ajanta - Udaipur - Jodhpur - Bikaner - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Agra - Delhi Day 1 Mumbai - Vadodara After traditional welcome of the guest, the train will depart for Aurangabad Dinner and overnight stay onboard the train. Day 2 Ajanta After breakfast, excursion to rock cut Ajanta Caves which are recognized as World Heritage Site by UNESCO Dinner and overnight stay on board the train Day 3 Udaipur After a leisurely breakfast, embark on local sightseeing of majestic Udaipur After a sumptuous lunch, a guided walking tour of old bazaar of Udaipur Dinner and overnight stay onboard the train Day 4 Jodhpur After an unhurried breakfast, go on a jeep safari to Bishnoi’s abode Rohet for a cultural experience. Rohet is a haven for Black Buck Antelope. Lunch at Rohet Garh Post-lunch expedition to Mehrangarh Fort Later return to train for Dinner and overnight stay Day 5 Bikaner After morning breakfast, a tour to the majestic Junagarh Fort Post lunch, an excursion to the rural landscape and a camel safari around the undulating sand dunes. Later savor the traditional Kalbeliyas and Langaas over refreshing sips of champagne Dinner and overnight stay aboard the train Day 6 Jaipur Post-breakfast; embark on a local sightseeing spree Later an Exhibition Elephant Polo Match and lunch with champagne Post lunch exploration of bustling markets of Jaipur Later return to train for dinner and overnight stay Day 7 Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore National Park)- Fatehpur Sikri A morning safari into Ranthambore National Park Post safari brunch on board the train Departure for Fatehpur Sikri post-lunch Upon arrival, a sightseeing tour of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Overnight stay and dinner on board Day 8 Agra - Delhi Early morning tour of the Taj Mahal Afterwards a champagne breakfast at Taj Khema with a mesmerizing dance and music performance adding to the romance Post breakfast departure to Delhi onboard the train Bid adieu to the majestic sojourn onboard the Maharajas Express after local sightseeing and a lavish dinner in Delhi Treasures of India A golden triangle tour itinerary offering tours to Agra, Jaipur and Delhi with a dash of wildlife in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve. Be a witness to the fascinating treasures of Mughal and Rajput architecture as you visit some of the most astounding creations of Mughals and Rajput warrior princes. Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights Destinations: Delhi - Agra - Ranthambore - Jaipur - Delhi Day 1 Delhi After a red carpet welcome, board the train for 72 hours saga of romance and adventure in sheer opulence. The train will arrive in Agra in the second half of the day wherin guests will be taken on the sightseeing tour of Agra Fort Later enjoy a champagne evening before returning back to the pampering of Maharajas Express Day 2 Agra - Ranthambore An early morning trip to World Heritage Taj Mahal is on the cards today Later return to train for onward journey to Ranthambore National Park Enjoy an evening safari in Ranthambore National Park which is considered to be the best place in India to spot tiger in their natural habitat Later return to the train for onward journey Dinner will be served on board Day 3 Jaipur Today's sightseeing activities include trip to Amber Fort, City Palace and Royal Observatory Post lunch, guests have option to choose from shopping, golf or spa Return to train for dinner and overnight stay Attractions Taj Mahal, Agra A UNESCO World Heritage Site and voted one of the seven modern Wonders of the World, Taj Mahal is the most iconic and enduring symbol of India. A magnum opus of Mughal architecture, this white marble landmark is one of the most breathtaking specimens of exquisite artistry. Champaner Pavagarh, Vadodara Another World Heritage Site, Champaner-Pavagarh Archeological Park stand testimony to a history ranging from pre-historic times to early 16th century. Centuries of heritage manifest in ancient ruins and living landmarks which include palaces, temples, mosques, fortifications and ramparts spread over 3 levels at the site. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan Embark on the trail of tiger in Ranthambore National Park famous for spotting the elusive cat. Named after the eponymous fortress inside the park, this sanctuary used to be the hunting grounds of the erstwhile maharajas of Jaipur and its royal association is evident in pictorial ruins sprinkled across the park. The park is home to several animal and bird species including tigers, leopard, hyenas and antelopes. Amber Fort, Jaipur One of the most popular attractions of Jaipur, Amber Fort is known for its massive ramparts, chains and series of walls and imposing gates. The fort houses several palaces, halls of audiences and a temple dedicated to goddess Kali. The palace used to be the official residence of Maharaja of Jaipur before it was moved to City Palace in Jaipur. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur Perched atop a hillock overlooking the city, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest fortresses in world. Housing various palaces, ruins, living structures and a well stocked museum, Mehrangarh is one of the most popular attractions in Jodhpur. The fort is also famous for its 7 intricately carved gates built by various maharajas to commemorate their victories over their enemies. Fatehpur Sikri The famous ghost town located near Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, this sprawling city was soon abandoned due to scarcity of water. The city was built to honor the saint Sheikh Salim Chisti who had blessed Akbar and foretold the birth of his son. It was the first planned city of the Mughals and also the first one designed in Mughal architecture, an amalgamation of Indian architecture, Persian and Islamic architecture. City Palace, Udaipur The abode of the maharaja of Jaipur, City Palace is a breathtaking complex of palaces and other exquisitely carved buildings. One of the palaces has been converted into a museum and displays various artifacts and clothing adorned by various princes. The Palace is a living residence of the royal family of Jaipur. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner One of the unassailable fortresses in India, Junagarh was captured by attackers only once in its history and that too for a single day. This sprawling fortress is studded with palaces, temples and pavilions and depicts a composite culture noticeable in the amalgamation of various architectural styles. Bathing Ghats of Varanasi One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in world, Varanasi is the epicenter and the most sacred place when it comes to Hinduism. Located on the banks of Ganges - a legendary river venerated in Hindu mythologies – Varanasi is renowned for its bathing Ghats and the image of evening aarti is perhaps the most iconic symbol of the city. Group of Monuments at Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh A UNESCO World Heritage Site, group of monuments at Khajuraho are known around the world chiefly for their carvings and sculpture depicting erotic postures – many even associate them with Kamasutra. The temples build during the reign of Chandela dynasty and dedicated to Hindu deities are the fine specimen of Hindu architecture and are known for their significant cultural values. The erotic sculpture and carvings are limited to the exteriors of the monuments. Some of the temples are very well preserved and show exquisite carving and artistry. Residency and Bada Imambara, Lucknow Lucknow is known for its ‘nawabi’ cuisines, culture and hospitality. Ruins at Residency are homage to the colonial legacy of the place and a reminder of the violent history during the first uprising in India. The site is preserved and a museum established at the site keeping in view, the importance during the First War of Indian independence. Bada Darwaza is an impressive imambara complex – a shrine built by Shia Muslim for the purpose of Azadari. One of the most sprawling structures in Lucknow, it was built by Asad-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Lucknow in 1784. Do Indulge & observe at Rajah Club/Treasure Chest A lounge with comfy club arm-chairs is the perfect place to know your fellow travelers. The lounge also functions as observation car. A library and private bar add to the nonchalance of the lounge. A high end boutique named Treasure Chest is also housed in the cabin with exquisite collection of souvenirs and memorabilia. Shopping At Old Clock Tower Market, Jodhpur, bazaars of Jaipur and Agra Wildlife Safari Exciting safari at either Ranthambore National Park or Bandhavgarh National Park is a part of your itinerary depending upon the journey you select. Whereas Bandhavgarh boasts of highest tiger density in world, the flora and landscape of Ranthambore makes it a popular reserve ideal for tiger spotting. Camel Procession Get aboard canopied camel carts and head for a sunset in the sand dunes over champagne amidst fire-eaters, folk dancers and musicians in Bikaner Elephant Polo Hop on an elephant’s back and enjoy a game of Polo in Jaipur, followed by a royal performance by a band of bagpipers and drummers. Son-et-lumiere at Khajuraho Enjoy the light show and get ready to get a lesson of history as you embark on a journey through time to the days of Chandela splendor. Meet the Bishnoi A tribe considered to be the earliest known conservationists, Bishnois are known for their preservation of animal and vegetable life. Get to know them on a guided cultural walk to their village near Jaipur. Eat Besides the dining facilities on board the train in its multi cuisine restaurants, dining at various locations are also arranged as part of your itinerary to give you an authentic local flavor of the destinations you are traveling. Most of these dining experiences are arranged at the royal palaces of erstwhile maharajas of India or at culturally significant locales. Taj Khema Indulge in champagne breakfast atop the Taj Khema with the stunning Taj Mahal in sight conjuring up the perfect canvas of romance. Mehrangarh Fort Savor the royal Barbecue with cocktail in the Royal courtyard of Mehrangarh Fort. Laxmi Vilas Palace A gourmet supper at Laxmi Vilas Palace to tantalize your taste buds with an array of traditional cuisines as well as tantalizing international delicacies on the menu. City Palace, Udaipur A royal lunch arranged at the Durbar Hall in the resplendent City Palace will definitely give you a taste of princely dining and elegance. Sand dunes in Bikaner Regale in the splendor of setting sun in the sand dunes of Thar Desert near Bikaner and raise a toast to the glory of sun and mystique of desert as sundowner cocktails and barbecue is served for your platter even as folk dancer and musician add to the allure of a fascinating evening. Haveli of Muzaffar Ali Mouth tingling Nawabi cuisines at the residence of Maharaja of Kotwara during an ‘Indian Evening’ will recreate the romance of a bygone era of Nawabi splendor and pageantry in Lucknow. Sleep During your journeys, you will be required to sleep on board the train itself. A total of 14 well appointed cabins offer plush stay to the guests. A personal valet for each cabin is also appointed during your journeys to take care of all your needs. Stay Safe A journey on board Maharajas Express is considered safe as it is fully arranged and guided group tour. The operators of the train Royale India Rail Tour Limited (RIRTL) is a joint venture between Cox & King, India and IRCTC. All journeys include complimentary travel guides and off train excursions are always guided. You are always accompanied by a professional English speaking guide during off train tours. Chartered buses are used for long distance transportation and are arranged by the service providers. Even during shopping excursions. Maharajas Express is comprehensively insured for natural calamities and all guests are covered under an umbrella insurance cover. Medical Emergency medical facilities on board the train are offered by a paramedic. Wildlife Since the journeys include jungle safari, it is advised that you carry light hued clothes, comfortable walking shoes. Getting down from vehicle is not allowed during safari in tiger reserves. Other concerns It is advisable to notify/specify any special dietary requirements at the time of booking. No specific vaccinations are required for travel to India but it is advisable that they should be in possession of a Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate conforming to international health regulations. Laundry facilities are limited and available only at few select destinations; hence it is advisable that you pack accordingly. References 'Maharajas’ Express bags World’s Leading Luxury Train Award'[2] Get out