Maharajas Express – Heritage of India – A Journey into history to Experience the Splendour of a by Gone Era

 

Introducing to the delights of India The Maharajas’ Express – The Heritage of India start the journey with the the bustling commercial city of Mumbai and end in the national Capital Delhi. During the journey you visit the shimmering Lake City of Udaipur and the majestic fort at Jodhpur , enjoy sundowner on the sand dunes at Bikaner. Soak in the colourful Pink City of Jaipur. You get an opportunity to see from close quarters the legendry tigers at Ranthambore and one of the Seven Wonders of the World ‘The Taj Mahal’ all this and more in utmost luxury.

Embarkation & Disembarkation (Heritage of India)

Check-in Venue & Timing – The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai / 0800 hrs

Departure Station & Timing – Mumbai – Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus / 1055 hrs

Arrival Station & Timing – Delhi – Safdarjung Station / 1445 hrs

Guests boarding the Maharaja Express have to report at least an hour before the train’s departure at a pre-assigned venue in Mumbai 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 - Mumbai Board Maharaja Express - Sunday

Welcome aboard the Maharajas’ Express.

This morning, assemble at 0800 hours at The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai and complete your registration and check in formalities. Join us for a tour brief and meet your facilitators during this exciting journey.

Proceed to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja Terminus where upon arrival, you will be greeted with a welcome drink and the Police Band playing as you board the Maharajas’ Express.The Maharajas’ Express departs Mumbai at 1055 hours approximately and travels through the land of the Marathas to Udaipur.

Lunch and Dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

Lunch and Dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

 

Day 2 - Udaipur, Rajasthan - Monday

This morning you will wake up in the picturesque region of Mewar, one of the most popular and royal states of the Rajputana. Admire the magnificent landscape of the Aravali hills over a leisurely breakfast as you arrive into Udaipur – the City of Lakes.

Disembark the train at 0930 hours as you begin your visit with a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Following the boat ride, visit the City Palace, the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, with its scalloped arches, fretted balconies, and cupolas. Visit Mor Chowk and see its lavish mosaics of peacocks; Moti Mahal with beautiful mirror work; Chini Mahal covered in ornamental tiles and the spectacular Zenana Mahal. Visit The Crystal Gallery and the Darbar Hall with an audio guide.

Proceed for lunch at around 1300 hrs at the Satkar Hall of Fateh Prakash Palace and experience the hospitality reminiscent of the ancient Mewar glory. Feast your taste buds over a spread of International and Indian cuisine.

Return to the train after lunch. Have a relaxed evening on-board or you have the option of enjoying spa facilities in a five star hotel.

Maharajas’ Express proceeds overnight to Jodhpur.

Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities

Breakfast and Dinner on-board; Lunch at Satkar Hall of Fateh Prakash Palace

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

 

Day 3 - Jodhpur, Rajasthan - Tuesday

This morning, the Maharajas’ Express, continues her journey into the stronghold of the Marwar region. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on-board. The morning is at leisure on-board or you may participate in one of the optional tours to the Bishnoi villages to experience rural India or enjoy spa facilities at a 5 star hotel or Visit to Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum and Jaswant Thada or explore the city in your private car with guide.

Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities.

Return to the train for lunch on-board.

After lunch visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. Admire the intricate latticed windows, elaborately carved panels and elegantly carved arches followed by a walking tour of the Old Clock Tower market.  As you reach the market on Tuk Tuks, get a glimpse of the daily lifestyle of the local residents, passing some of the old houses and havelis.

Enjoy an exclusive Cocktail evening with a wide array of sumptuous Marwar Culinary delights served at an exclusive venue.

Return to the train and continue your journey to desert city of Bikaner.

Breakfast and Lunch on-board; Cocktail dinner at Khaas Bagh.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

 

Day 4 - Bikaner, Rajasthan - Wednesday

Enjoy your journey through the countryside with breakfast on-board.

At around 1000 hours, arrive into the desert citadel of Bikaner and relax on-board or you may choose to embark on one of the optional tours to the Lalgarh Palace Museum displaying some fascinating exhibits on the royal heritage of Bikaner.

Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities.

After your optional tours, return to the train for lunch.

Following lunch, disembark and proceed to the Junagarh Fort, an unassailable fortress built in 1593 AD by Raja Rai Singh. While the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat, its real beauty lies inside. Be overwhelmed by the Diwan-i-Khas, Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal and Anup Mahal.

Later experience the royal pageantry as a convoy of camel carts accompanied by musicians takes you for a Sundowner on the Sand Dunes. Enjoy cocktails, savour traditional mouth watering barbecue delicacies as you enjoy traditional folk arts like the Langaas and Kalbeliyas.

Return to the comforts of your train by 2015 hours and embark on your onward journey to Jaipur.

Breakfast and Lunch on-board; Evening barbeque on dunes.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

 

Day 5 - Jaipur, Rajasthan - Thursday

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on-board.

Following disembarkation and a grand traditional welcome begin your exciting tour of the pink city with a visit to Amber Fort at 0930 hrs. 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. Proceed for an exclusive lunch 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.

After lunch you may also choose to participate in the optional activities such as spa facilities at a five star hotel or visit the City Palace and Jantar Mantar (The Observatory). Return to the train for dinner as it proceeds to Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore) or explore the city in your private car with guide.

Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional services.

Breakfast and Dinner on-board. Lunch at Ram Bagh Palace.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

 

Day 6 - Sawai Madhopur - Friday

On 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 onboard.

On arrival at the quaint station of Fatehpur Sikri, disembark at 1500 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. Then return to the train to enjoy an ‘Indian Evening’!

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on-board.

Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

 

Day 7 - Agra & Delhi - Saturday

Today, the train continues on her last leg of the journey towards the magical city of 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 (one of the Seven Wonders of the World). Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it 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 from atop the Taj Khema, a tabletop lawn, gazing at the Taj Mahal. Return to the train as it proceeds to Delhi.

Enjoy a hearty lunch on-board.

Bid farewell to the Maharajas’ Express as your ‘The Heritage of India’ journey comes to an end at approximately 1445 hours on arrival at Delhi Safdarjung Station.

The royal journey is over, but the memory of which will live on forever!

Breakfast at Taj Khema; Lunch on-board.

 

Note:

 

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • The tour will generally be organised as per details given above. However you may please check for 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
October, 2024 13
November, 2024 10
December, 2024 08
January, 2025 05
February, 2025 02
March, 2025 30

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 $ 8130 $ 6100 £ 7742  £  5810
Junior Suite $ 10880 $ 9800 £ 10360  £ 9330
Suite $ 15180 $ 15180 £ 14458 £ 14458
Presidential Suite $ 26070  $ 26070 £ 24828 £ 24828

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

*** One Transfer in Mumbai and One Transfer 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

The Oberoi Mumbai

The Oberoi offers luxury and convenience with its 24-hour spa, fitness and concierge service. It also features 5 food and beverage options offering a variety of cuisines. Free WiFi is available for 30 minutes. The Oberoi Mumbai’s elegant rooms feature wooden floors, large windows offering beautiful views and en suite bathroom separated by a glass panel with electronic blinds. Rooms are equipped with an LCD TV, tea/coffee maker and iPod docking station. Free local newspapers are available. Guests can relax with a swim at the outdoor heated pool or enjoy shopping at the high-end shopping arcade. The Oberoi Spa offers a variety of treatments and therapies. Guest services include 24-hour laundry service and babysitting. European, Asian and Indian specialities are featured on the menu at Fenix, alongside traditional Japanese delicacies. Vetro serves Italian dishes, while Indian cuisine can be savoured at Ziya. The Eau Bar overlooks the Arabian sea and features a live Jazz band. The Champagne Lounge serves an extensive selection of Champagne and teas. Situated at Nariman Point at the end of Marine Drive, The Oberoi Mumbai is a 45-minute drive from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. A 20-minute drive leads to the railway station. Hotel Offers 287 Rooms

Trident Bandra Kurla Mumbai

Trident Bandra Kurla provides an outdoor swimming pool and full spa services. Concierge services and room service are available 24 hours. Stylish with accents of red, the air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, DVD Player and iPod connections. A well-stocked minibar and a personal safe are also included. En suite bathrooms come with either a shower or a bathtub. Trident Bandra Kurla is located in North Mumbai, a 15-minute drive from the domestic airport. It is a 20-minute drive from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport and a 40-minute drive from Western Railway Terminus. Botticino restaurant serves fine wine and Italian dishes, while 022 restaurant offers an interactive sushi bar, as well as Western and Asian food. Other dining options include regional Indian food at Maya restaurant and salads at Trident Patisserie & Delicatessen. At Trident Spa & Fitness Centre, guests can look forward to relaxing massage treatments or a good workout at the gym. Hotel offers 436 Rooms

Taj Mahal Palace , Mumbai

Standing majestically opposite the Gateway of India, this iconic 5-star hotel features a landscaped pool, fitness facilities and a first-rate spa. The hotel provides 11 dining options. Hotel offers 560 Rooms. The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower is 2 km from Mumbai’s city centre and 32 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Free parking is available. Featuring a private balcony, elegant rooms are tastefully furnished with fine linen and classic wood furnishings. They offer the comfort of a flat-screen TV, sofa and luxurious bathrooms that feature a bathtub. Enjoy the use of steam rooms and sauna facilities after an energizing workout at the well-equipped gym. Attentive staff at Taj Mahal Palace offer childcare, tour and concierge services. Hearty meals featuring Indian specialities are availabe at Masala Kraft. Other dining highlights include Golden Dragon Chinese restaurant, Mediterranean fare at Souk and Wasabi Japanese restaurant.

ONLINE BOOKING