The Royal Indian Railway Experience: Top 5 Luxury Trains with Routes & Price Details

India’s opulent past and royal heritage make it a dream destination for travelers seeking a blend of luxury and cultural richness. One of the best ways to experience this is by embarking on a luxury train journey, where each train echoes the grandeur of erstwhile royal palaces and promises an exclusive experience. From Rajasthan’s desert landscapes to the serene backwaters of Kerala, these trains offer a unique way to explore the vast beauty of India in style. Here are the top 5 super luxury trains in India, each offering a unique route, exclusive amenities, and a touch of regal charm.

1. The Maharajas’ Express

  • Route: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, and more
  • Price Range: ₹4,00,000 – ₹16,00,000 (approx. per person, depending on the itinerary)

The Maharajas’ Express is arguably India’s most famous luxury train, renowned for its exquisite interiors and premium services. Voted one of the “World’s Leading Luxury Trains,” it operates on multiple routes, offering diverse itineraries like the “Heritage of India,” “Indian Splendor,” and “Treasures of India.” Each journey allows passengers to immerse in the vibrant cultures of cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Varanasi.

The interiors are reminiscent of palaces, with luxurious dining cars, opulent suites, and a personal butler service available to each guest. There are four types of cabins—Deluxe Cabin, Junior Suite, Suite, and Presidential Suite, with the Presidential Suite spanning an entire carriage. Onboard, guests can enjoy a range of gourmet cuisines, spa treatments, and cultural programs, making every moment feel grand.

2. Palace on Wheels

  • Route: Delhi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra
  • Price Range: ₹3,50,000 – ₹10,00,000 (approx. per person)

Palace on Wheels is India’s original luxury train, crafted to echo the elegance of the royal coaches that once carried the Maharajas. Running from Delhi to Rajasthan, it captures the essence of this regal state. The train traverses Jaipur, the “Pink City”; Jaisalmer, with its golden forts; and Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes.”

Each cabin aboard Palace on Wheels reflects Rajasthan’s royal heritage, with the interiors adorned with intricate woodwork, traditional décor, and plush furnishings. Amenities include two exquisite restaurants, a bar, and a spa, ensuring guests have an experience that seamlessly blends traditional hospitality with modern luxury.

3. The Deccan Odyssey

  • Route: Mumbai, Aurangabad, Udaipur, Jaipur, Delhi, and Agra
  • Price Range: ₹4,10,000 – ₹11,50,000 (approx. per person)

Aptly named, The Deccan Odyssey brings travelers face-to-face with the historic Deccan Plateau, visiting locations like the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Aurangabad and the vibrant city of Mumbai. This train operates multiple itineraries that range from exploring Maharashtra’s cultural wonders to covering the length of Rajasthan.

Inside, the Deccan Odyssey offers unparalleled luxury, with its design inspired by the palaces of Maharashtra. The cabins are spacious and lavishly decorated, and the train has two gourmet restaurants, a lounge bar, and a spa to enhance passenger comfort. With itineraries lasting up to eight days, each journey with the Deccan Odyssey is meticulously planned, ensuring travelers get a thorough taste of India’s rich past and present.

4. The Golden Chariot

  • Route: Bangalore, Mysore, Hampi, Badami, Goa, and other South Indian destinations
  • Price Range: ₹2,50,000 – ₹7,50,000 (approx. per person)

For travelers eager to explore the Southern part of India, The Golden Chariot offers a luxurious passage through Karnataka, Goa, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. Known as the “Pride of the South,” this train’s routes include the “Jewels of South” and the “Pride of Karnataka,” among others.

Inside, The Golden Chariot combines the cultural motifs of South Indian architecture with luxury comforts like plush furnishings, fine dining restaurants, and a fully equipped wellness spa. This train is perfect for those who want to delve into South India’s rich heritage sites, explore the beaches of Goa, and marvel at the architectural wonders of Hampi and Mysore.

5. The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

  • Route: Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Khajuraho, Varanasi, and Agra
  • Price Range: ₹3,80,000 – ₹9,50,000 (approx. per person)

The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels takes inspiration from its predecessor, Palace on Wheels, with even more luxurious settings. Its route through Rajasthan and parts of Uttar Pradesh offers a regal experience through historic destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Varanasi. Known for its opulent interiors and hospitality, this train makes you feel like royalty from the moment you board.

Each cabin is designed with a royal theme, offering passengers an intimate yet luxurious experience with state-of-the-art facilities. The train’s two restaurants serve Indian and international cuisines, allowing guests to savor a variety of flavors. The journey typically lasts a week, giving travelers ample time to immerse themselves in India’s architectural and cultural splendor.

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