Top 7 Luxury Trains in India

Luxury Trains in India

All of Luxury Trains in India provide a distinct and opulent travel experience that blends the natural beauty and cultural legacy of the country's many regions with contemporary comforts and amenities. As a result, picking one train from the list of Luxury Trains in India is the greatest challenge because each train has its own allure and personality.

The Maharajas' Express, Palace on Wheels, and Deccan Odyssey, however, are three of the most well-liked and acclaimed luxury trains in India. These three are well-known and very famous for their services as trains provide top-notch amenities, opulent lodgings, and unmatched experiences that highlight the best of Indian culture, heritage, and natural beauty.

Actually, the best luxury trains in India are ultimately a matter of personal interest and taste. To select the train that best meets your travel needs and tastes to enjoy more of your trip, it is advised that you examine each one's schedule, amenities, and reviews mentioned below in this blog. If you find our blog helpful do follow us on Instagram (@four_wheeldriveindia) to know about our services and best travel tips.

Most luxurious Train in India

Maharajas Express

One of the most well-known and Luxury trains in India, the Maharajas Express provides a special and luxurious travel experience for travel lovers. It is regarded as one of the most Luxury trains in the world and has garnered numerous accolades for its first-rate offerings now travel lovers can experience true India with the help of this luxury train. The IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) owns and runs the luxury train.

The Maharajas' Express also offers a number of itineraries as this is measured as one of the luxury trains in India. Also, this train visits well-known tourist locations in India. The train is furnished with contemporary accessibilities like individual temperature control systems, Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and air conditioning in each cabin. Also, there are two dining options, a bar, a lounge, a gift store, and a library on the train.

The cabins on the train are classified into four categories: 

• Deluxe Cabin
• Junior Suite
• Suite
• Presidential Suite

The Deluxe Cabin can accommodate up to two passengers, while the Junior Suite can accommodate up to three passengers. The Suite and Presidential Suite can accommodate up to four passengers.

The train offers various facilities and services, including butlers, private guides, and customized meals. The Maharajas' Express also provides off-train excursions to explore the tourist destinations covered by the itinerary.

Overall, the Maharajas' Express offers a luxurious and unforgettable travel experience in India.

Maharajas’ Express Route:

As you are aware, The Maharajas' Express is a luxurious train that travels through India on five distinct itineraries, stopping at some of the most well-liked tourist attractions. Here I am presenting the Maharajas' Express routes listed below to help you in dressing the best as per your choice:

• Heritage of India: The trip lasts 7-night/8-days and trip begins in Bombay, travels through Ajanta, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ranthambore, and Agra, and ends in Delhi.
• Indian Splendour: This is a 7-night/8-day trip that starts in Delhi and includes Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Balasinor before ending in Mumbai.
• Indian Panorama: This is a 7-night/8-day journey that starts in Delhi and includes Jaipur, Ranthambore, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Gwalior, Orchha, Khajuraho, and Varanasi before ending in Lucknow.
• Treasures of India: This is a 3-night/4-day trip that starts in Delhi and covers Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur before ending in Delhi.
• Gems of India: This is a 3-night/4-day trip that starts in Delhi and covers Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur before ending in Delhi.

Each of these routes is designed to give travelers a unique experience of India's rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and fascinating history.

Palace on Wheels

Palace on Wheels is a luxury train in India that offers a unique travel experience of exploring the rich cultural heritage and royal splendor of Rajasthan. The train was launched in 1982 by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) in association with the Indian Railways.

Palace on Wheels has 14 big coaches that are designed to resemble the royal and luxury carriages used by the erstwhile Rajput Maharajas of Rajasthan. Each coach is named after a former princely state of Rajasthan, and the interiors are adorned with traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and artwork, which makes your experience the real Rajasthan.

The train covers popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan such as Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Chittorgarh. The beautiful journey on Palace on Wheels includes off-train trips to explore the historical monuments, forts, palaces, and temples of the Indian state Rajasthan. This amazing train also offers cultural programs on board such as dance performances, folk music, and many more.

This luxury train in India has a total of 39 big cabins that are classified into two main categories: Deluxe Cabin and Super Deluxe Cabin. Both cabins are air-conditioned and equipped with modern amenities such as music systems, LCD TVs, and en-suite luxury bathrooms.

Palace on Wheels also has two main restaurants that serve a variety of foods like Indian, Continental, and Rajasthani cuisine in case you like it. The train also has a bar to enjoy your night, a beautiful lounge, a souvenir or gift shop for travelers, and a spa that offers traditional Ayurvedic massages.

Overall, Palace on Wheels offers a unique and luxurious travel experience that combines the royal heritage of Rajasthan with modern comforts and amenities.

Palace on Wheels Route

The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train that operates on a single route in India, covering some of the most popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan. The route of Palace on Wheels is as follows:

• Delhi: The journey starts in Delhi, the capital city of India. The train departs from Safdarjung Railway Station in the evening.
• Jaipur: The first stop of the luxury train journey is Jaipur, the Pink City of India. Here, travelers get to visit renowned attractions such as the City Palace, Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.
• Sawai Madhopur: The next stop is Sawai Madhopur for nature lovers, home to the Ranthambore National Park to experience the wildlife. Travelers get to go on a safari and spot tigers, as Ranthambore is famous for its tiger reserve and other wildlife in its natural habitat.
• Chittorgarh: The train then heads to glorious Chittorgarh, which is known for its splendid fort and palaces. Here, explorers can explore the Chittorgarh Fort and the Vijay Stambh, as both sites are very prominent in the city.
• Udaipur: The next stop of your luxury journey is Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes. Here, traveler lovers get to visit all the famous places like City Palace Udaipur, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and take a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Jaisalmer: The train then heads to the city of Thar Desert Jaisalmer, the Golden City of India. Travelers get to explore the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli as the main monument, and the Sam Sand Dunes to experience the real Rajasthan.
• Jodhpur: The final stop of the luxury journey is Jodhpur City, also known as the Blue City of India. Here, travelers get to visit the JaswantThada, Mehrangarh Fort the main monument of the city, and the UmaidBhawan Palace.

The luxury train journey ends back in the capital city of Delhi on the eighth day of the trip. The Palace on Wheels offers a unique and luxurious way to explore the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan tour packages.

The Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey is a luxury train in India not very famous for tourists but offers excellent services that offer a unique travel experience of exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the state of Maharashtra and other parts of the country. The luxury train is owned and operated by the MTDC(Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) in association with the Indian Railways.

The train covers common tourist destinations of the state such as Mumbai, Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Kolhapur, Nashik, and Goa. The journey on this luxury train Deccan Odyssey includes off-train excursions also to explore the historical monuments, temples, and natural beauty of these Maharashtra.

The train has 21 big coaches that are designed to offer up-to-the-minute amenities and a royal experience. The interior structure of the coaches is inspired by the Maharajas or royal kings of the state, and the luxury train is equipped with modern facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and separate temperature control systems in each cabin.

The train has a total of 44 beautiful cabins that are classified into four main categories: Deluxe Cabin, Presidential Suite, Suite, and Special Suite. The cabins are highly spacious and elegantly designed with traditional Indian artwork and handicrafts. Each cabin is equipped with modern amenities such as an en-suite bathroom, a safe, and a mini-bar to enjoy your night.

The Deccan Odyssey also has two beautiful restaurants that serve a variety of continental and Indian cuisine with Maharashtrian touch. The train also has a bar, a lounge, a souvenir or gift shop, a conference place, and a spa that offers traditional Ayurvedic massages for relaxation.

Overall, The Deccan Odyssey offers a luxurious and unforgettable travel experience that combines the royal Maharashtrian heritage and natural beauty of Maharashtra with modern comforts and amenities.

Deccan Odyssey Route

The Deccan Odyssey is another luxury train in India that operates on multiple routes in the country, covering some of the most popular tourist destinations in Maharashtra and other nearby famous states. The routes of the Deccan Odyssey are as follows:

• Maharashtra Splendor: This is a 7-night/8-day journey that starts in Mumbai and covers Nashik, Aurangabad, Ellora Caves, Ajanta Caves, Kolhapur, Goa, and Sindhudurg before ending in Mumbai.
• Indian Odyssey: This is a 7-night/8-day journey that starts in Delhi and covers SawaiMadhopur, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Vadodara, Ellora Caves, and Mumbai before ending in Mumbai.
• Jewels of the Deccan: This is a 7-night/8-day journey that starts in Mumbai and covers Bijapur, Aihole, Pattadakal, Hampi, Hyderabad, Ellora Caves, and Ajanta Caves before ending in Mumbai.
• Maharashtra Wild Trail: This is a 7-night/8-day journey that starts in Mumbai and covers Aurangabad, Pench (Ramtek), Tadoba, Ajanta Caves, Nashik, and Mumbai.
• Hidden Treasures of Gujarat: This is a 7-night/8-day journey that starts in Mumbai and covers Vadodara, Palitana, Gir, Little Rann of Kutch, Modhera, Patan, and Nashik before ending in Mumbai.
• Each of these routes is designed to give travelers a unique experience of India's rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and fascinating history. The Deccan Odyssey offers a luxurious and comfortable way to explore these destinations, with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities on board.

Golden Chariot

Golden Chariot is a very beautiful luxury train in India that offers a unique tourism experience of discovering the cultural heritage and natural beauty of South part of India. This train is owned and operated by the KSTDC(Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation) in association with the Railways, India.

The luxury journey covers prominent tourist destinations in South India such as Bangalore, Chennai, Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Mysore, and Pondicherry. The journey on the Golden Chariot luxury train includes off-train day trips to explore the local historical monuments, beautiful temples with incredible architectural designs, and the natural beauty of these above-mentioned destinations.

The train has 18 coaches that are designed to offer modern amenities and a royal experience. The interiors of the coaches are inspired by the architectural marvels of South India, and the train is equipped with modern facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and individual temperature control systems in each cabin.

The train has a total of 44 cabins that are classified into two categories: Deluxe Cabin and Presidential Suite. The cabins are spacious and elegantly designed with traditional Indian artwork and handicrafts. Each cabin is equipped with modern amenities such as an en-suite bathroom, a safe, and a mini-bar.

Golden Chariot also has two restaurants that serve a variety of Indian and Continental cuisine. The train also has a bar, a lounge, a souvenir shop, a conference car, and a spa that offers traditional Ayurvedic massages.

Overall, Golden Chariot offers a luxurious and unforgettable travel experience that combines the cultural heritage and natural beauty of South India with modern comforts and amenities.

Golden Chariot Route

• The Golden Chariot is a luxury train that operates on two different routes in Southern India, covering some of the most popular tourist destinations. Here are the routes of the Golden Chariot:
• Pride of Karnataka: This is an 8-day/7-night journey that starts in Bangalore and covers Bandipur, Mysore, Halebidu, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Badami, and Goa before ending in Bangalore.
• Jewels of South: This is an 8-day/7-night journey that starts in Bangalore and covers Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Thanjavur, Madurai, Thiruvananthapuram, Alleppey, and Kochi before ending in Bangalore.
• Each of these routes is designed to give travelers a unique experience of India's rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and fascinating history. The Golden Chariot offers a luxurious and comfortable way to explore these destinations, with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities on board.

Royal Orient Train

Royal Orient Train is very famous a luxury train in India that offers an exclusive tour experience of exploring the natural beauty of Gujarat and Rajasthan with cultural heritage. The train is owned and operated by the Gujarat Tourism Corporation Limited (GTCL) and the Indian Railways.

The train covers popular tourist attractions of both state Gujarat and Rajasthan such as Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Junagadh, SasanGir, and Ahmedabad too. The journey on Royal Orient Luxury Train includes off-train expeditions to explore the historical monuments, famous temples, and natural beauty of Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Junagadh, SasanGir, and Ahmedabad.

The train has 13 large coaches that are designed to offer contemporary amenities for travelers and a royal experience of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The interior structure of the coaches is inspired by the architectural marvels of both states Gujarat and Rajasthan, and the train is equipped with modern conveniences such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and individual temperature control systems in each cabin.

The train has a total of 41 huge cabins that are classified into two main categories: Deluxe Cabin and Super Deluxe Cabin. The cabins are highly spacious and elegantly designed with traditional Indian artwork and handicrafts. Each cabin is equipped with modern amenities such as an en-suite bathroom, a safe, and a mini-bar.

This luxurious train also has two restaurants that serve a variety of Indian and Continental cuisine. The train also has a bar, a lounge, a souvenir or gift shop, and a huge conference car for travelers.

Overall, Royal Orient Train offers a luxurious and remarkable travel experience that combines the cultural heritage and natural beauty of both destinations Gujarat and Rajasthan with modern comforts and amenities.

Royal Orient Train Route

The Royal Orient Train is a luxury train that operates on a single route in India, covering some of the most popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan and Gujarat. Here is the route of the Royal Orient Train:

• Delhi: The journey starts in (Delhi) Dillidilwaloki, the capital city of India.
• Chittorgarh: The train then heads to glorious Chittorgarh, which is known for its glorious fort and palaces. Here, tourists can explore the Chittorgarh Fort and the Vijay Stambh.
• Udaipur: The next stop of your luxury journey is Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes. Here, traveler lovers get to visit all the famous places like City Palace Udaipur, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and take a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Junagarh: The train next enters Gujarat and makes a stop in Junagarh, where passengers can explore the recognized Junagarh Fort and the MahabatMaqbara.
• Veraval: The next stop of this luxury train is Veraval, where you can explore the renowned Somnath Temple, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, this will help you to heal with all your stress.
• Sasangir: The next stop on the railway is Sasangir, the location of the renowned Gir National Park, famous for its Asiatic lions.
• Dilwara: Once again entering Rajasthan, the train stops at Dilwara so that passengers can explore the well-known Dilwara Jain Temples.
• Palitana: The next stop of the train isPalitana, known for its famous Jain temples and gorgeous architecture.
• Jaipur: The final stopover of this luxury journey is Jaipur, the Pink City of India. Here, tourists get to visit famous attractions such as the City Palace, Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.

The journey ends back in Delhi on the eighth day of the trip. The Royal Orient Train offers a unique and luxurious way to explore the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Fairy Queen Express

Fairy Queen Express is a heritage train in India known for its luxury experience that is powered by a 19th-century steam locomotive. The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes it as the oldest continuously operating steam locomotive in the world.

The trip by train from Delhi to Alwar in the state of Rajasthan is rather brief. The Sariska Tiger Reserve is a stop on the Fairy Queen Express route where guests can go on a jungle safari and appreciate the area's natural splendor.

Two of the train's coaches are intended to provide a historical experience. The coaches' interior decor draws inspiration from the British Raj era, and the train is furnished with standard amenities like couches and air conditioning.

The Fairy Queen Express only runs from October to March, and the trip is usually finished in a single day.

In conclusion, Fairy Queen Express provides a distinctive and nostalgic travel experience that combines the appeal of the steam locomotive with the pure beauty of Rajasthan.

Fairy Queen Express Route

The Fairy Queen Express is a luxury tourist train in India that runs on a single route between Delhi and Alwar in Rajasthan. Here is the route of the Fairy Queen Express:

• Delhi: The journey starts in Delhi, the capital city of India.
• Alwar: The train heads to Alwar, a city located in Rajasthan known for its historical monuments and beautiful gardens.
• Sariska Tiger Reserve: The Fairy Queen Express takes a detour to the Sariska Tiger Reserve, where travelers can enjoy a safari ride and spot various wildlife species.
• Alwar: The train then returns to Alwar, where travelers get to explore the famous BalaQila Fort and the City Palace.
• Delhi: The journey ends back in Delhi on the second day of the trip.
• With cutting-edge amenities on board, the Fairy Queen Express is a distinctive luxury train in India that provides a brief yet unforgettable experience. The voyage gives passengers a look into Rajasthan's rich cultural legacy and natural beauty, and the train is renowned for its gorgeous design and sophisticated furnishings.

Heritage on Wheels

Several individuals mistakenly believe that the trains Palace on Wheels and Heritage on Wheels are one and the same. True, both are considered to be luxury trains in India; however, Heritage on Wheels is the most affordable. Indian luxury train Heritage on Wheels is a one-of-a-kind travel opportunity to discover Rajasthan's rich cultural history and scenic landscape. The Rajasthan Tourist Development Corporation owns and runs the railway (RTDC).

Popular tourist attractions in Rajasthan like Bikaner, Tal Chhapar, Shekhawati, and Jaipur are all covered by the train. Heritage on Wheels offers excursions off the train to explore the historical sites, temples, and scenic areas of these places.

The 14 cars of the railway are built to provide contemporary comforts and a regal experience. The coaches' interiors were designed with traditional Rajasthani architecture and furnishings in mind, but the train is also furnished with contemporary amenities like Wi-Fi, LCD TVs, and individual temperature control systems in each cabin.

There are 18 cabins in all on the train, and they are divided into two groups: Deluxe Cabins and Super Deluxe Cabins. The cabins feature traditional Indian artwork and handicrafts and are roomy and nicely constructed. Modern conveniences including an en-suite toilet, a safe, and a mini-bar are included in each cabin.

A restaurant operated by Heritage on Wheels offers a selection of Indian and continental dishes. The train also contains a conference car, a bar, a lounge, and a gift shop.

Overall, Heritage on Wheels provides a lavish and unique vacation experience that blends Rajasthan's traditional legacy and natural beauty with contemporary conveniences and facilities.

Heritage on Wheels Route

The luxury tourist train Heritage on Wheels travels past some of Rajasthan, India's top tourist attractions as it transports passengers. This is the Heritage on Wheels train's route.

• Jaipur: The Heritage on Wheels journey starts in Jaipur, the Pink City of India.
• Bikaner: The first stop of the Heritage on Wheels journey is Bikaner, known for its beautiful forts and palaces, for instance, the Junagarh Fort and Laxmi Niwas Palace.
• Tal Chhapar Sanctuary: The luxury journey then heads to Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, a wildlife sanctuary known for its large populace of blackbucks.
• Shekhawati: The next stop is Shekhawati, a region known for its gorgeous havelis (traditional Indian mansions) and fresco paintings.
• Jaisalmer: The next stop on the train is Jaisalmer, a town in the Thar Desert renowned for its stunning sandstone buildings and the Jaisalmer Fort.
• Jodhpur: Jodhpur is the next destination; it is well-known for its stunning Mehrangarh Fort, UmaidBhawan Palace, and JaswantThada.
• Udaipur: The next stop on the train is Udaipur, also referred to as the City of Lakes. The City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and a boat excursion on Lake Pichola are all accessible to visitors in this area.
• Jaipur: The journey ends back in Jaipur on the eighth day of the trip.

With state-of-the-art amenities and services, the Heritage on Wheels train provides a luxurious and pleasant way to explore Rajasthan's rich cultural legacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, luxury trains in India provide visitors with a distinctive and opulent approach to discovering the nation's rich cultural heritage, varied landscapes, and interesting history. Each train, from the lavish Palace on Wheels to the magnificent Maharajas' Express, has a distinct route and schedule that visits some of the most well-liked tourist locations in India.

Modern amenities and services are provided on board these luxury trains in India, including classy cabins, fine dining restaurants, bars, spas, and lounges.

In India, taking a luxury train is not just about getting there; it's also about the journey, as passengers get to take in the breathtaking vistas of the countryside and the many cultures of the regions they pass through. These trains' opulent, comfy rides are the ideal way to unwind and make priceless memories.