Did you know that Indian Railways is not just the largest rail network in Asia, it’s also the world's second largest? And did you know that this fantastic public service covering a massive 115,000 km of rail tracks across the country caters to almost 2.5 crore passengers daily? What is even more exciting about travelling by Indian railways is the promise of some of the most incredible rail journeys by luxury train. And you have a choice of five amazing trains which will unveil the wonder that is India.
There’s no denying the fact that there’s something incredibly romantic about indulging oneself in luxury rail journeys. Smothered in opulent accommodations on board, pampered by the services and filled with anticipation of discoveries in exotic landscapes, you can abandon yourself to each delicious moment, coasting down rail tracks from destination to destination.
Palace on Wheels
This is the oldest luxury train in India, and it offers you a fabulous tour of the legendary ‘Land of Royalty’–Rajasthan. As India’s first heritage luxury train, an initiative of Rajasthan Tourism, it offers a 7 day’s tour that covers some of the most coveted experiences in its legendary cities. This luxurious train’s 21 carriages offer 14 opulent saloons. Royal pursuits may be enjoyed further with gourmet meals, chilli-outs in the 2 on-board resto-bars, the best wines and spirits and a luxury spa treatment. You don't even have to miss your daily workout, as there's a gym onboard.
The Maharajas Express
Get ready to thrill to the over-the top-opulence and memorable indulgences on the eight tours offered by this award-winning luxury train. Oozing romance and adventure, this fabulous train transports you through some of the most captivating landscapes and legendary cities such as Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Varanasi and Mumbai in India. Onboard soak in the atmospherics of the bygone era of royalty illustrated by the luxurious decor in the beautifully accoutred saloons.
The Golden Chariot
An offering from Karnataka State Tourism Board, The Golden Chariot rolls out journeys to exotic locations of Karnataka and Goa, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Scheduled excursions en route take you to discoveries of UNESCO Heritage Sites of Hampi, Belur, Badami and Pattadakal, the golden beaches of Goa, Pondicherry, Mamallapuram and Kochi backwaters. The 11 guest cabins are named after the ruling dynasties of Karnataka. Unwind after a day of sightseeing at the onboard Ayurveda spa and enjoy delicious meals and drinks at the in-house fine-dining restaurants. Further pampering is provided by the friendly service of your cabin valet.
The Deccan Odyssey
This luxury train travels to some of the most prominent destinations across India in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Excursions on the 7-day tour — World Heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora, Sindhudurg, Tarkarli, Goa, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, and the wine country of Nasik. Savour regional cultural and culinary delights and shop for local crafts along the way. An initiative of Maharashtra Tourism, it offers enticements on board as well, including gourmet meals onboard, spa treatments and personalised service.
Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
This luxury hotel on wheels offers a 7-Day exploration of Rajasthan’s iconic destinations. The 14 luxury cabins have been named after some royal palaces of Rajasthan. Enjoy the extravagance and five-star service and facilities on board.
So, if you want to explore India the way the royals of yesteryears did, indulge yourself with a luxury train journey of discovery in this incredible India.