There is luxury on tracks too. Ever opted for a luxurious train journey? What if we tell you that you can have the best of experience right here in India, with luxury in Indian tourism that offers grand hospitality, a splendid ambience and fine dining services. The domestic flights hold no match when compared to these luxury trains. The luxury trains date back to the colonial era, when the Maharajas and elites travelled through them. They still function today in the 21st century redefining luxury. Here is the list of the top luxurious trains of India where you can experience hospitality like never before-
Palace on Wheels
The Palace on Wheels is symbolic to India’s luxurious tourism ever since it began in 1982. The eight-day journey is open for the visitors from the month of September to April. It covers the journey across north-west India, including the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. The 14 coaches are named after the princely states of Rajasthan. There are 41 cabins, out of which two are super deluxe.
Palace on wheels is all majestic with two dining restaurants, separate bar for cocktails and drinks, gym, Ayurvedic spa retreat along with sightseeing, blissful interiors, sunset experience at the dunes and a trip to the state of Rajasthan.
Price- $864 (twin sharing basis)
Deccan Odyssey
Deccan Odyssey hit the tracks in 2004. It takes on the route for a six-week long itinerary that starts from Delhi in the month of September till May. Deccan odyssey is the joint collaboration of Indian Railway and the State Government of Maharashtra. The train was refurbished at the time of COVID-19 pandemic and was then reopened in 2023. The journey goes on with marveling at the glorious Maratha empire and its history, an exquisite cultural experience while exploring and admiring Indian architecture.
There are 21 coaches out of which 11 are open for the guests. The train sparks royal aestheticism. Out of all the facilities of spa, high-tech conference room, bar, gym, souvenir shop etc. the major highlight is the two restaurants- Waavar and Utsav that serve Indian cuisine in its best form.
Price- Starting from $8,330 (for single occupancy)
The Golden Chariot
Since 2008, the Golden Chariot has been running across South India. it serves on three itineraries during the months of October till March. The train has 18 carriages colored purple and gold, each of them named after the dynasties of South India. The lavish amenities provided include two restaurants for dining, lounge bar, spa, exercise room equipped with Wi-Fi and Smart TVs. The décor is largely inspired from Mysore Palace. Hop on the train for a luxurious travel exploring the cultural heritage and an extravagant cultural delight.
Price- Starting from $3,160 per person (twin sharing basis)
Royal Rajasthan on wheels
The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels started in 2009 and is modelled on the Palace on Wheels now since 2017. The train is operated by the Indian Railways in collaboration with the Rajasthan Tourist Development Corporation. It introduces to the Rajputana legacy and culture. You witness the rich Rajput hospitality with its traditions. It feels like the regal castle with all the 5-star culinary delight experience.
The train has 39 deluxe cabins, two dining restaurants, bar and a saloon with spa and gym.
The Maharajas express
The 23- carriage Maharajas express was launched in 2010, this is its 15th year in the business. It is a true replica of the Orient Express of Europe. The World Travel Awards has conferred the Maharajas Express with the title of “World’s leading Luxury train” for six consecutive years. It is the pan India train that starts from Delhi in the North to Trivandrum in the South.
The Maharajas Express is completely owned and managed by the IRCTC. The train can occupy 84 passengers and has 2 restaurants, namely the Mayur Mahal and Rang Mahal along with the beautiful setting of the Rajah Lounge and the cocktail spree of the Safari Bar. The Maharajas express runs from the month of October to April, covering four itineraries along North-west and Central India.
Price- Starting from $4,890 per person (twin sharing basis)
Other trains include the Heritage on Wheels and The Fairy Queen which are oldest, yet still running. It can be said that they are still steady among the luxury trains of India. So, experience the best of tourism in the luxury trains!