Frequently Asked Questions

Maharajas' Express explores many of India's most iconic destinations, taking guests through regions renowned for their history, architecture, wildlife and cultural heritage.

Depending on the itinerary selected, your journey may include destinations such as:

• Delhi
• Agra
• Jaipur
• Ranthambore National Park
• Fatehpur Sikri
• Udaipur
• Jodhpur
• Bikaner
• Orchha
• Khajuraho
• Varanasi
• Mumbai

Each itinerary has its own unique character, allowing travellers to experience everything from magnificent forts and royal palaces to sacred temples, bustling markets and wildlife safaris.

Maharajas' Express currently offers four carefully curated journeys, each showcasing a different side of India's heritage and culture.

Treasures of India (3 Nights / 4 Days)

A shorter journey featuring Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore and Jaipur—ideal for travellers with limited time.

Indian Panorama (7 Nights / 8 Days)

Includes Jaipur, Ranthambore, Agra, Orchha, Khajuraho and Varanasi, combining heritage, wildlife and spiritual experiences.

Indian Splendour (7 Nights / 8 Days)

Travels from Delhi to Mumbai through Agra, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur and Udaipur, highlighting Rajasthan's royal legacy.

Heritage of India (7 Nights / 8 Days)

Begins in Mumbai and concludes in Delhi, covering many of India's most celebrated destinations along the way.

Each itinerary includes guided sightseeing, luxury accommodation onboard and carefully planned cultural experiences.

There is no single "best" itinerary—it depends on what you hope to experience during your visit to India.

If seeing the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan's magnificent palaces and the romantic Lake City of Udaipur is your priority, Indian Splendour is an excellent choice.

Travellers interested in combining heritage with spirituality often prefer Indian Panorama, which includes the sacred city of Varanasi alongside UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Khajuraho.

Those looking for a shorter luxury holiday may find Treasures of India ideal, while Heritage of India offers one of the most comprehensive journeys, linking Mumbai with Delhi through Rajasthan's royal cities.

Our travel specialists can help you choose the itinerary that best matches your interests, available travel dates and preferred duration.

For many first-time visitors, Indian Panorama and Indian Splendour provide an excellent introduction to India.

These itineraries include several of the country's most famous attractions, including the Taj Mahal, Jaipur's historic forts, Ranthambore National Park and magnificent royal palaces. They also balance sightseeing with time to relax onboard, making them suitable for travellers who want to explore India comfortably.

If your holiday is limited to a few days, Treasures of India offers a shorter yet rewarding experience that includes some of India's most recognisable landmarks.

The ideal choice ultimately depends on the destinations you most wish to visit and the amount of time available for your holiday.

Yes. A visit to the Taj Mahal is included in most Maharajas' Express itineraries, making it one of the highlights of the journey for international visitors.

Your visit is professionally organised and includes guided sightseeing, allowing you to learn about the monument's remarkable history, architecture and cultural significance. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal is often the experience many guests look forward to most.

The specific timing of the visit depends on your chosen itinerary.

Several Maharajas' Express itineraries include a safari in Ranthambore National Park, one of India's most celebrated wildlife reserves.

Travelling in specially designated safari vehicles, guests have the opportunity to search for Bengal tigers, leopards, deer, crocodiles and a wide variety of birdlife in their natural habitat. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, Ranthambore offers one of the best chances to see a tiger in the wild.

The safari experience adds an exciting contrast to the journey's royal palaces, historic monuments and cultural attractions.

Maharajas' Express offers four categories of luxury accommodation, each designed to provide a comfortable and elegant environment throughout your journey.

Deluxe Cabin – Stylish accommodation with modern amenities and thoughtful design.

Junior Suite – Offers additional space and enhanced comfort for guests seeking a more spacious experience.

Suite – Features separate living and sleeping areas, creating a refined private retreat.

Presidential Suite – The most exclusive accommodation onboard, occupying an entire carriage and providing the highest level of luxury available on the train.

Regardless of the category selected, all guests enjoy attentive service, elegant interiors and carefully considered facilities designed for long-distance luxury travel.

The ideal cabin depends on your travel style, budget and personal preferences.

The Deluxe Cabin is well suited to couples seeking an elegant and comfortable luxury rail experience.

If you prefer additional living space, the Junior Suite offers greater room to relax after sightseeing excursions.

Guests celebrating a special occasion, such as a honeymoon or anniversary, often choose the Suite, while the Presidential Suite is designed for travellers who want the highest level of exclusivity, privacy and personalised luxury.

If you're unsure which option best suits your journey, our travel specialists can explain the differences between cabin categories and help you select the accommodation that matches your expectations.

Every cabin on Maharajas' Express has been designed to provide the comfort and convenience expected from a luxury hotel. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while travelling between destinations, allowing them to relax in complete privacy after each day's sightseeing.

Depending on the cabin category, features include comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms with premium fittings, individually controlled air conditioning, a wardrobe, electronic safe, television, direct-dial telephone, complimentary bottled water and large windows to admire the passing scenery. Personalised butler service is also available, ensuring assistance is always close at hand.

Whether you choose a Deluxe Cabin or the Presidential Suite, every accommodation has been carefully appointed to create a refined and relaxing atmosphere throughout your journey.

Dining is one of the highlights of travelling on Maharajas' Express. Every meal is prepared using carefully selected ingredients and served in elegant surroundings, allowing guests to enjoy a restaurant-quality experience while travelling through India's diverse landscapes.

The train features two beautifully decorated restaurants—Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal—where guests can enjoy a variety of Indian, Asian and international dishes. Menus are thoughtfully planned to offer both regional specialities and familiar favourites, ensuring there is something to suit every palate.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in the journey, and attentive staff ensure every meal is served with the same high standard of hospitality found throughout the train.

Yes. Maharajas' Express welcomes guests with a wide range of dietary preferences and medical requirements. Vegetarian, vegan, Jain and gluten-free meals can usually be prepared when requested in advance.

If you have food allergies or specific dietary restrictions, it is advisable to inform your travel consultant at the time of booking. This allows the onboard culinary team to make suitable arrangements before your departure.

The chefs take pride in preparing fresh meals throughout the journey, ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable dining experience regardless of their dietary needs.

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available onboard Maharajas' Express, allowing guests to stay connected during much of their holiday. However, as the train travels through rural regions and remote landscapes, internet connectivity may occasionally be slower or temporarily unavailable.

Mobile phone reception can also vary depending on the location. Many guests use these quieter moments to enjoy the scenery, socialise in the lounge or simply relax away from the demands of everyday life.

While the service is generally reliable, it should not be considered equivalent to high-speed internet available in major cities.

Yes. Maharajas' Express offers elegant public spaces where guests can unwind between excursions or spend time with fellow travellers.

The train includes a stylish lounge and bar, providing a comfortable setting to enjoy a refreshing drink, read a book or simply admire the changing scenery through large panoramic windows. It is also a popular place to exchange travel stories and meet guests from around the world.

Whether you prefer a quiet coffee in the afternoon or a pre-dinner drink, these beautifully designed spaces contribute to the relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere onboard.

There is no strict dress code, but smart casual clothing is recommended during the day, particularly when exploring historic monuments and cultural sites.

For dinner, many guests choose elegant evening attire to complement the refined atmosphere onboard. Formal wear is not compulsory, although some travellers enjoy dressing up for special dinners and celebrations.

Comfortable walking shoes, a hat and lightweight clothing are advisable for sightseeing excursions, while a light jacket or shawl can be useful during cooler evenings between October and February.

The cost of travelling on Maharajas' Express depends on several factors, including the itinerary, cabin category, season of travel and whether you are travelling alone or sharing a cabin.

Shorter journeys, such as Treasures of India, are generally more affordable than the longer seven-night itineraries. Deluxe Cabins offer an excellent introduction to luxury rail travel, while Suites and the Presidential Suite provide additional space and exclusive features.

As fares are updated periodically, we recommend checking the latest tariff before making your reservation.

The fare has been designed to provide a comprehensive luxury holiday, allowing guests to enjoy their journey with very few additional expenses.

Your fare generally includes:

• Luxury accommodation onboard
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Guided sightseeing excursions
• Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
• Transport during off-train excursions
• Services of experienced English-speaking guides
• Butler service
• Selected beverages
• Porter assistance at stations

This all-inclusive approach allows you to focus on enjoying the journey rather than managing multiple travel arrangements.

Although Maharajas' Express is largely all-inclusive, certain personal and travel-related expenses are not covered.

These typically include:

• International airfare
• Domestic flights (unless specifically mentioned)
• Indian visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Laundry services
• Spa or wellness treatments
• Premium imported wines and spirits where applicable
• Personal shopping
• Optional gratuities

Understanding these exclusions in advance helps guests budget more accurately for their holiday.

When you book Maharajas' Express through Luxe Train Journeys, eligible guests can enjoy a range of complimentary services designed to make their holiday even more convenient and enjoyable.

Depending on the applicable offer, these may include:

• A complimentary one-night stay at a luxury 5-star hotel before or after your train journey
• Breakfast at the hotel
• Airport transfers
• Railway station transfers
• A half-day guided city tour
• Additional value-added services announced as part of seasonal promotions

Complimentary offers are subject to availability and may vary depending on the selected departure, itinerary and booking conditions. Our travel specialists will be happy to explain the latest offer available at the time of booking.

To ensure a comfortable experience for all guests, we recommend travelling with luggage that is easy to store within your cabin. Soft-sided suitcases are generally more convenient than oversized hard-shell cases, particularly for longer journeys.

Porters are available to assist with luggage at designated stations, and your cabin has space for essential belongings during the trip. If you plan to extend your holiday before or after the train journey, our team can also advise on luggage arrangements and hotel storage options where applicable.

For the latest baggage recommendations, please contact our travel specialists before departure.

Packing for Maharajas' Express is straightforward, as the train offers a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.

We recommend bringing:

• Comfortable clothing for daytime sightseeing
• Smart casual outfits for evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal medications
• Camera or smartphone
• Universal travel adaptor
• A light jacket or shawl for cooler mornings and evenings during the winter season

If your itinerary includes wildlife safaris, neutral-coloured clothing is also recommended. Packing light will make your journey more comfortable while still ensuring you have everything needed for a memorable holiday.

Absolutely. Maharajas' Express is particularly popular with mature travellers who wish to explore India in comfort without the inconvenience of frequent hotel changes or long road journeys.

The train allows guests to unpack once while visiting multiple destinations, and sightseeing arrangements are carefully coordinated to minimise travel logistics. Comfortable accommodation, attentive service and well-planned excursions make the journey an appealing choice for retirees, couples and multigenerational families.

Guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to discuss their requirements before booking so appropriate guidance can be provided.

Yes. Maharajas' Express welcomes solo travellers from around the world.

Many guests choose to travel independently, appreciating the safety, convenience and social atmosphere onboard. Guided excursions, shared dining spaces and lounge areas provide plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travellers while still enjoying the privacy of your own cabin.

Single occupancy fares are available, making it easy for solo travellers to experience India's most iconic destinations without joining a larger escorted tour.

Yes. Maharajas' Express provides a memorable setting for celebrating life's special moments, including honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays and milestone celebrations.

The elegant surroundings, personalised service and carefully curated experiences create an atmosphere that is both romantic and memorable. From candlelit dinners and breathtaking heritage sites to luxurious accommodation, every journey offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories.

If you are celebrating a special occasion, please let our team know before you travel so we can advise on any available arrangements or enhancements.

Yes. Maharajas' Express is widely regarded as one of the safest and most comfortable ways to explore India.

Every journey is professionally managed by experienced hospitality and operational teams, while guided excursions ensure guests visit each destination in a well-organised and convenient manner. The train's secure environment, attentive staff and carefully planned itineraries provide reassurance for first-time visitors as well as experienced travellers.

Many guests from across the world choose Maharajas' Express because it combines luxury, convenience and peace of mind throughout the journey.

For travellers seeking an exceptional way to discover India, many consider Maharajas' Express to be well worth the investment.

Rather than arranging multiple hotels, domestic flights, transfers and sightseeing tours separately, the journey combines accommodation, fine dining, guided excursions and premium hospitality into one carefully planned experience. This allows guests to enjoy India's most iconic destinations in comfort while avoiding many of the logistical challenges associated with independent travel.

For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, fulfil a lifelong travel ambition or experience India in a truly unique way, Maharajas' Express offers an unforgettable holiday that blends luxury with cultural discovery.

Choosing the right travel partner is just as important as choosing the right journey. Luxe Train Journeys is a Preferred Sales Agent (PSA) of Maharajas' Express, specialising in luxury rail holidays across India.

Our experienced travel consultants help you compare itineraries, select the most suitable cabin category and understand fare inclusions before you book. We can also assist with hotel stays, airport transfers, sightseeing, pre- and post-train tours and other travel arrangements to create a complete holiday.

Instead of dealing with multiple suppliers, you benefit from a single point of contact throughout your planning process. Our personalised approach ensures your holiday is carefully tailored to your preferences and supported from enquiry through to departure.

Yes. Luxe Train Journeys is proud to be a Preferred Sales Agent (PSA) of Maharajas' Express, working closely with the train to assist travellers from around the world with their bookings.

As a specialist in luxury rail travel, our role goes beyond simply confirming reservations. We provide expert advice on choosing the most suitable itinerary, selecting the right cabin category, planning extensions before or after the journey and answering any questions you may have before travelling.

Our goal is to make planning your luxury train holiday as smooth and enjoyable as the journey itself.

Yes. Maharajas' Express welcomes guests with a wide range of dietary preferences and medical requirements. Vegetarian, vegan, Jain and gluten-free meals can usually be prepared when requested in advance.

If you have food allergies or specific dietary restrictions, it is advisable to inform your travel consultant at the time of booking. This allows the onboard culinary team to make suitable arrangements before your departure.

The chefs take pride in preparing fresh meals throughout the journey, ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable dining experience regardless of their dietary needs.

The cost of travelling on Maharajas' Express depends on several factors, including the itinerary, cabin category, season of travel and whether you are travelling alone or sharing a cabin.

Shorter journeys, such as Treasures of India, are generally more affordable than the longer seven-night itineraries. Deluxe Cabins offer an excellent introduction to luxury rail travel, while Suites and the Presidential Suite provide additional space and exclusive features.

As fares are updated periodically, we recommend checking the latest tariff before making your reservation.

Although Maharajas' Express is largely all-inclusive, certain personal and travel-related expenses are not covered.

These typically include:

• International airfare
• Domestic flights (unless specifically mentioned)
• Indian visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Laundry services
• Spa or wellness treatments
• Premium imported wines and spirits where applicable
• Personal shopping
• Optional gratuities

Understanding these exclusions in advance helps guests budget more accurately for their holiday.

When you book Maharajas' Express through Luxe Train Journeys, eligible guests can enjoy a range of complimentary services designed to make their holiday even more convenient and enjoyable.

Depending on the applicable offer, these may include:

• A complimentary one-night stay at a luxury 5-star hotel before or after your train journey
• Breakfast at the hotel
• Airport transfers
• Railway station transfers
• A half-day guided city tour
• Additional value-added services announced as part of seasonal promotions

Complimentary offers are subject to availability and may vary depending on the selected departure, itinerary and booking conditions. Our travel specialists will be happy to explain the latest offer available at the time of booking.

To ensure a comfortable experience for all guests, we recommend travelling with luggage that is easy to store within your cabin. Soft-sided suitcases are generally more convenient than oversized hard-shell cases, particularly for longer journeys.

Porters are available to assist with luggage at designated stations, and your cabin has space for essential belongings during the trip. If you plan to extend your holiday before or after the train journey, our team can also advise on luggage arrangements and hotel storage options where applicable.

For the latest baggage recommendations, please contact our travel specialists before departure.

Packing for Maharajas' Express is straightforward, as the train offers a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.

We recommend bringing:

• Comfortable clothing for daytime sightseeing
• Smart casual outfits for evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal medications
• Camera or smartphone
• Universal travel adaptor
• A light jacket or shawl for cooler mornings and evenings during the winter season

If your itinerary includes wildlife safaris, neutral-coloured clothing is also recommended. Packing light will make your journey more comfortable while still ensuring you have everything needed for a memorable holiday.

Maharajas' Express generally operates between September and April, when weather conditions across much of northern and central India are most comfortable for sightseeing.

Many travellers prefer departures between October and March, as temperatures are generally pleasant for exploring monuments, palaces and wildlife reserves. Christmas, New Year and February departures are especially popular and often book well in advance.

If you have flexibility with your travel dates, booking early gives you the greatest choice of departures and cabin categories.