Maharajas’ Express – The Indian Panorama – Relish royalty, spirituality and wilderness in one unforgettable escapade

 

The Maharajas’ Express – The Indian Panorama explores the hidden riches of India lie in its breathtaking beauty and its diversity of cultures. With world’s leading luxury train, Maharajas’ Express, you can embark on an unforgettable escapade that starts off with the capital city of Delhi. Guests journey their way through iridescent lands of Jaipur to reach the vivid greens of Ranthambore. We then take our royal guests to the ancient capital city of Mughals, Fatehpur Sikri and then to Agra where they can witness the immortal sheen of the Taj Mahal. They soak in the regality of Gwalior and discover the sensuous moods of the temples of Khajuraho. Finally we reach the sacred city of Varanasi, and observe the divine beauty of River Ganges.

Embarkation & Disembarkation (Indian Panorama)

Check-in Venue & Timing – Safdarjung Railway Station, Delhi/ 0730 hrs

Departure Station & Timing – Delhi – Safdarjung Railway Station / 0830 hrs

Arrival Station & Timing – Delhi – Safdarjung Railway Station/ 1200 hrs

Guests boarding the Maharaja Express have to report at least an hour before the train’s departure at a pre-assigned venue in Delhi for the pre-boarding facilities.

All Foreign Nationals are required to obtain Tourist VISA to visit India and Passport Valid for Six Months from date of departure from India.

Day 1 - Delhi to Jaipur - Sunday

Welcome aboard the Maharajas’ Express.

This morning, assemble at Delhi Safdarjung station at approximately 0730 hours and complete your registration and check in formalities, as you enjoy sipping into your welcome drink enjoying the live instrumental music. The train shall proceed to Jaipur at 0830 hrs.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch on-board. Join us for a tour brief and meet your facilitators during this exciting journey.

Deboard at around 1500 hrs to visit the City Palace galleries including the Textile Museum, Arms Museum and Arts Museum.  Admire the famous Sterling Silver Vessels entered in the Guinness Book of World Records. The vessels are said to be made from 14000 silver coins without any joint and were used by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II to carry the water of the Ganges to drink on his trip to England in 1901 to attend King Edward VII’s coronation.

After your visit to the City Palace, proceed for an exclusive dinner at the Rambagh Palace Hotel. The Palace built in 1835 AD was the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur from 1925 to 1957, when it was converted into a luxury hotel. The palace retains its royal splendour, hand-carved marble latticework, and elaborate gardens.

Afterwards, return to the station by 2030 hours on Maharajas’ Express.

Breakfast and Lunch on-board. Dinner at Rambagh Palace Hotel.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

Day 2 - Jaipur - Monday

After on-board breakfast, deboard at around 0830 hrs to visit the Amber Fort. The Amber Fort, set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh, the fort was made in red sand stone and white marble. The rugged forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise with a beautiful fusion of art and architecture. Amber is the classic and romantic fort-palace with a magnificent aura.

A short jeep ride takes you up to the fort where you will enjoy a tour of the royal apartments, with striking views of the gorge. Step back into the Mughal era as you enter the Chamber of Mirrors (Sheesh Mahal), and the Hall of Victory. Return to the train for lunch or you may choose from a range of optional activities like Spa facilities at a hotel or explore the city with your private car and guide.

Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities.

Return to the comforts of Maharajas’ Express. Dinner will be served on-board. Maharajas’ Express leaves for Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore).Breakfast, lunch and dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

Day 3 - Ranthambore and Fatehpur Sikri - Tuesday

Upon arrival into Sawai Madhopur, early in the morning, get ready for a safari to the Ranthambore National Park. Originally the private hunting ground of the Maharajas, Ranthambore was declared a National Park in 1973. It is famous for its open sightings of tigers, sambar, chital, nilgai, chinkara, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, jackal and leopard. Wildlife cannot be compared to that of Africa and you are indeed fortunate if you spot the elusive tiger or the shy leopard.

Proceed for an early morning exciting game drive. The safari is carried out in open vehicles and the ride is quite bumpy and dusty. One must carry adequate warm clothes for winter months.

Return to the train. Enjoy breakfast as you continue your journey to the fabled deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri. Admire the changing landscape as you savour lunch.

On arrival at the quaint station of Fatehpur Sikri, disembark at 1530 hours and proceed on a tour of the fascinating sights comprising of imposing gateways, Halls of Private and Public audience, beautifully sculptured palaces with unique water bodies, reflecting a perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. This deserted red sandstone city was built by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital in the late 16th century. It is now a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to the train. Enjoy an “Indian Evening” on-board followed by dinner.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

18:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas’ Express

20:00 Dinner onboard. Overnight on train at Fatehpur Sikri

Day 4 - Agra - Wednesday

Early morning arrive into Agra – the jewel of India, home to one of the world’s great architectural wonders – the Taj Mahal. With its spectacular monumental masterpieces and picturesque natural setting, Agra is a legendary city glorified by time. Early morning, disembark and proceed to the world famous Taj Mahal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz. This incomparable marvel is constructed entirely out of white marble and is an architectural masterpiece with beautiful inlay work and marble screens. Approximately 20,000 of India’s most revered craftsmen were recruited to give shape to this poetry in marble.

Later enjoy breakfast gazing at the Taj Mahal, from atop the Taj Khema.

Following breakfast, return to the train for lunch. Afternoon is at leisure or you may choose optional activities – Spa at a hotel or visit to Agra Fort. Return to the train for dinner as the train proceeds to Orchha.

Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the Optional activities.

Breakfast at Taj Khema, Lunch and Dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

Day 5 - Orchha and Khajuraho - Thursday

Disembark at Orchha Railway Station at 0700 hrs to visit the quaint village of Orchha known for its rustic lifestyle. Visit the Orchha Fort, built over several years in the 1500s by the Bundela rulers overlooking the Betwa river. A short Tuk Tuk ride will take you to experience village life in the hinterland. Return to the train for breakfast.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch on-board as the train continues its journey through some of the most dramatic and picturesque environs towards Khajuraho.

Khajuraho is renowned for its architecture and exquisite sculptures. Built between 950 and 1050 AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity, the temples are superb examples of Indo-Aryan architecture. The highly sensual engravings depict the whole range of human emotions and relationships.

On arrival proceed on a tour of the magnificent temples of Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the western group which constitutes some of the finest examples of Chandela art at its peak including the Kandariya Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

In the evening you may enjoy optional activities – Dances of India show at Kandariya Shilpgram or you may enjoy Spa facilities at a Hotel or Sound and Light Show at the temple complex.

Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

Day 6 - Varanasi - Friday

Today as you enjoy breakfast on-board, your journey continues through rich agricultural fields, arriving into the holy city of Varanasi.

One of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi (also known as Kashi or Banaras) has a spiritual legacy of over 3000 years. A place of pilgrimage, this holy city is set on the banks of the sacred river Ganges. Varanasi epitomizes the chaos and colour of India. Lively bazaars, exquisite and bright silks, festivals, temples, mosques and palaces – all can be found here.

Following disembarkation, proceed for lunch at Hotel Taj Ganges. After lunch, visit the ancient ruins of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon expounding the principles of Buddhism. Proceed for a boat cruise on the Ganges, en-route visit a Silk Weaving Centre, where you may even shop for some world famous Banarasi silk saris and brocades.

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the river Ganges and witness a magical evening aarti at the ghats of the holy Ganges.

Return to the comforts of Maharajas’ Express. Dinner will be served on-board. Maharajas’ Express leaves for Delhi.

Breakfast on-board, Lunch at Taj Gateway Hotel and Dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express

Day 7 - Delhi - Saturday

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on-board as the train arrives into Delhi.

Disembark at around 1200 hrs at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station.

Breakfast on-board.

Disembark.

 

Note:

  1. All ‘Optionals’ / ‘Optional Tours’ are on chargeable basis and are subject to availability. Details and pricing will be made available on-board during the journey.
  1. The itineraries and timings are subject to change, due to factors beyond our control such as ‘force majeure’ events, strikes, fairs, festivals, sport events, weather conditions, disruptions/diversions of rail services, re-routing of railway, closure of / restricted entry at a place of sightseeing, non availability of venues etc.
  1. The tour will generally be organised as per details given above. However one may please check any changes in the program/timings provided in the travel document during check in formalities and/or check with Train General Manager during the tour for any last minute changes/updates.
Month Days
September, 2024 29
October, 2024 27
December, 2024 22
January, 2025 19
February, 2025 16
April, 2025 06

Note: At Present 5 % GST is levied by Government of India EXTRA ON TOP OF THE TARIFF. Extra Surcharges for departures during Christmas and New Year.

Prices Valid from 01 October 2022 Until April 2025

Price in US Dollars Price in Sterling Pounds
Adult on Double / Twin Sharing basis. PER PERSON Single Supplement Adult on Double / Twin Sharing basis. PER PERSON Single Supplement
Deluxe Cabin $ 7750  $ 5820  £ 7380 £ 5542
Junior Suite $ 10400 $ 9375  £ 9904 £ 8928
Suite $ 15180 $ 15180  £ 14458 £ 14458
Presidential Suite $ 26070 $ 26070  £ 24824 £ 24824

Price / Cost Includes

*** Accommodation in Air Conditioned Deluxe Cabin or Junior Suite or Suite or Presidential Suite with attached Bathroom on board The Maharaja Express

*** All meals including tea, coffee and mineral water and house brands of Indian wines, beer and spirits during The Maharaja Express

*** Transport for sightseeing with Deluxe Coaches during The Maharaja Express for Deluxe Cabin and Junior Suite Clients

*** *** Transport for sightseeing with Private Vehicle & Private Guide during The Maharaja Express for Suite and Presidential Suite Clients

*** Entrance fee to palaces, museums & parks during The Maharaja Express

*** English speaking guide during The Maharaja Express

*** Bulter Service for Suite and Presidential Suite Clients

*** Service of the Tour Manager on Board

*** Two Transfers  in Delhi by Private Vehicle with Driver

Child Policy Maharajas’ Express does accommodate children but we ask parents to be mindful of the sophisticated adult atmosphere we endeavour to maintain.

    1. A) For Deluxe/Jr.Suite/Suite Cabins
    2. Children below 5 years shall be allowed free, subject to sharing of double bed with parents.This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking.
    3. Single child (5 years – 12 years) sharing cabin with adults – 50% of the adult fare, subject to sharing of double bed with two full paid adults.This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking.

OR

    1. Single child (5 years – 12 years) in a separate cabin -50% of the(adult fare + Supplement charges) if requested in a separate cabin.
    2. Two child (5 years – 12 years) in a separate cabin – 50% of the adult fare for each child in a separate cabin on twin sharing basis.
    3. Three child (5 years – 12 years) in a separate cabin – 50% of the adult fare for each child subject to sharing of double bed.

OR

  1. If third child request in a separate cabin – 50% of the (adult fare + Supplement charges).
  2. Single child (5 years – 12 years) + one adult in a separate cabin:- Two adults fare on twin sharing basis.
  3. Two child (5 years – 12 years) + one adult in a separate cabin:- One adult fare plus 50% of the adult fare for each child subject to sharing of double bed.
  4. B) For Presidential Suite Cabin
  5. Children below 5 years shall be allowed free, subject to sharing of double bed in PS.
  6. Single child (5 years – 12 years) sharing cabin with adults – 50% of the adult fare, subject to sharing with two/three/four full paid adults in PS.
  7. Two child(5 years – 12 years) in a separate cabin – 50% of the adult fare for each child in a separate sub cabin on twin sharing basis subject to sharing with two full paid adults in PS.
  8. Three child (5 years – 12 years) in a separate cabin – 50% of the adult fare for each child subject to sharing of with two/three full paid adults in PS.
  9. Single child (5 years – 12 years) + one adult in a separate cabin:- Two adults fare on twin sharing basis in PS.
  10. Two child (5 years – 12 years) + one adult in a separate cabin:- 50% of the adult fare for each child subject to sharing with one full paid adult.

Note:

  1. Child booking if requested in a separate cabin is subject to travelling with the adults. It is to be noted that single child has to share guide/vehicle with adults travelling together in case of Suite & PS cabin booked pax.In case, a separate higher category vehicle is required then supplement will be levied.
  2. Please note that we do not have a facility for interconnecting cabins except in the Presidential suite car.
  3. All applicable taxes will be charged extra.

 

Award Winning – The Maharajas Express

India… a country with a history as old as time. A country where diverse dynasties have ruled through centuries, leaving their indelible imprint on the landscape, language and culture of the Indian Sub-continent. Majestic Palaces, Forts, Rich natural bounty, Untamed wildlife… there’s so much to soak in and store memories for a lifetime while traversing on the Indian Panorama.

The Indian sub-continent is very vast and to undertake comfortable Luxury trips on various tour circuits will be a tiresome affair.

The tour circuit on this vast Indian landscape is made convenient by the Maharajas’ Express – the latest Luxury Train and provides Luxury on wheels.

It offers five luxury train circuits on wheels to let one choose the best way to discover and explore the treasure trove and amazing Indian kaleidoscope.

The Luxury Tour Circuits on wheels, let one explore exotic locales such as a trip to one of the largest dinosaur fossil parks at Balasinor with opportunity to meet one of the Indian royal family, a trip to the erotic temples of Khajuraho, to participate in the Elephant activities at Jaipur, cocktail & barbeque sundowner on the sand dunes at Bikaner, champagne breakfast overlooking the immortal beauty of the Taj Mahal, boat trip on the Ganges at the holy city of Varanasi – and much more…

The unmatched ambience, contemporary amenities, impeccable service and luxurious decor provide a Royal Tours on board this Palace on wheels.

Maharajas’ Express by providing an Experience Unsurpassed, with its mélange of providing immaculate on-board services and well designed Luxury Tour Circuits had made

The Metropolitan – New Delhi

The Metropolitan Hotel New Delhi is 5-minute drive from Connaught Place, It features an outdoor pool and 3 dining options. Situated in New Delhi’s city centre, it also offers a fitness centre and spa. The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa is 1 km from New Delhi Railway Station, 500 m from Airport Express Metro Station (Shivaji Stadium) and 15 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport. Stylish air-conditioned rooms feature Indian motifs. Equipped with an iron and a flat-screen TV with cable channels, they also come with a minibar. Private bathrooms feature bath and shower facilities and a hairdryer. Guests can check e-mails at the business centre or relax at the full-service NeoVeda Spa, which offers massage services and a steam room. There is also a shop selling a range of items including hand-woven scarves, an assortment of teas and aromatherapy oils. Sakura Restaurant serves Japanese dishes, while Chutney Bar + Tandoor Restaurant offers Indian delights. The pool-side Zing Restaurant offers international fare and is open round-the-clock. In-room dining is possible.  Hotel has 178 Rooms

Divided in the Category of Deluxe , Club and Executive Suites.

The Lalit – New Delhi

Set in a grand building in bustling Connaught Place, The LALIT New Delhi welcomes guests with its full spa and outdoor pool. It offers an extensive range of 7 dining options, including some 24-hour ones. The Lalit is a 10-minute drive from New Delhi Railway Station, while Indira Gandhi International Airport is 24 km away. Spacious, soundproofed rooms offer subtle touches of Indian culture. Generously furnished with a flat-screen TV and DVD player, some rooms offer an iPod dock. An electric kettle and a minibar are provided in each room. Iron and ironing board can be requested. Guests can experience Ayurvedic and natural therapies at Rejuve spa, or opt for a work out in the fitness centre. Other facilities include a business centre, free private parking and The LaLit Galleria, which features a variety of shops. Dining options include Baluchi Indian restaurant and Woks Chinese restaurant. 24/7 Restaurant and Bar are open all day everyday for dining convenience. The hotel also has a 24-hour pastry shop for sweet cravings. Hotel offers 461 Rooms categorized under Deluxe Rooms , Premier Rooms , Executive Club, Suites

The Claridges New Delhi

Located in Lutyens New Delhi, The Claridges, New Delhi, offers rooms with old-world charm and contemporary furnishings. Just 3 km from the city centre, it has a temperature controlled outdoor swimming pool and 6 dining options. Free WiFi and parking is available. Wooden-floored rooms feature a satellite flat-screen TV and a pillow menu. Each is well-equipped with a minibar and tea/coffee making facilities. Safety deposit boxes and ironing facilities are available for guests convenience. The hotel has a variety of amenities including a health club. Mediterranean cuisine is served at Sevilla, while Dhaba offers North Indian fare. Pastries are available at Ye Old Bakery Patisserie and Jade serves Chinese food. Choose from beverages at Aura – The Vodka Bar. The Claridges is within 1.5 km from Delhi National Museum and Lodhi Gardens. Within 4 km of the hotel is Connaught Place. It is 13 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The Leela Palace New Delhi

The Leela Palace New Delhi is a blend of Lutyen’s architecture and the royal Indian culture. A pampering spa, 4 dining options and free parking are available. Elegantly decorated, air-conditioned rooms feature a high-definition flat-screen TV with a DVD player, floor-to-ceiling windows and wooden furnishings. A 2nd flat-screen TV in the bathroom is a mirror when turned off. The Leela Palace New Delhi is less than 10 minutes’ drive from the India Gate. Indira Gandhi International Airport is 15 km while the Domestic airport is 13 km. The exclusive spa by ESPA offers an Ayurveda inspired day spa menu created for both women and men while rooftop temperature-controlled swimming pool offers the panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Guests can also approach the 24-hour front desk to rent a computer or a car. Housed in a modern glass structure, The Qube offers an international and Indian buffet with open kitchens. Other dining options include Le Cirque and MEGU from New York, the award winning restaurants. Indian food is served at Jamavar . Drinks can be enjoyed at the hotel’s 2 bars. Hotel offers 254 Rooms

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