Maharaja Express

The Maharajas Express has changed the luxury rail travel in India. It offers an exceptional experience where elegance, personalised service, and comfort come together smoothly. This luxury train is designed for discerning travellers and combines the grandeur of royal India with modern sophistication, creating a journey as remarkable as its destinations.

Each cabin and suite on the Maharaja Express train is carefully designed and furnished with lavish interiors, premium furnishings, and modern amenities to ensure complete comfort throughout the journey. Spacious accommodation, attentive housekeeping, and dedicated butler service allow guests to enjoy every moment and relax in an atmosphere of exclusivity and refinement.

Life on board is centred around impeccable hospitality. From the moment you step aboard, the warm and professional staff take care of every detail, delivering a level of service that makes each guest feel truly special. The experience is unhurried, elegant, and tailored to provide the utmost convenience and relaxation.

The Maharajas Express luxury train offers exceptional dining experiences. Its beautifully designed restaurants serve a wide range of Indian and international delicacies, prepared by experienced chefs with the best ingredients and presented with sophistication. Every meal becomes a celebration of flavours, complemented by an ambience that reflects timeless luxury.

In addition, this luxury train features inviting lounge spaces where guests can unwind, socialise, or admire the ever-changing scenery through large panoramic windows. Every aspect of this train journey is carefully curated to deliver comfort, indulgence, and unforgettable moments.

Travelling on the Maharajas Express train is more than a holiday; it is a luxurious experience that allows you to embrace the romance of rail travel while enjoying world-class hospitality and unmatched elegance from beginning to end.

History and Launch

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) launched the Maharaja Express train in March 2010. It was launched to showcase India's rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders through luxury rail experiences. The train quickly became the most prestigious offering in India and became equivalent to Europe's Orient Express.

Why is the Maharaja Express Called the Most Luxurious Train?

The Maharaja Express is known for its spacious cabins, palatial interiors, dedicated butler service, exclusive excursions, and fine dining restaurants. Each detail of this luxury train reflects royal elegance and allows guests to experience India in an extraordinary, comfortable way.

Awards and Global Recognition

The Maharaja Express train has received more than 10 awards, including 6 World's Leading Luxury Train awards, Best Luxury Train Award, and World Travel Award. Its outstanding hospitality and unique experiences have been attracting visitors from all over the world.  

The Maharaja Express Routes and Itineraries

Cholan Tours is an authorised IRCTC travel agent. So, we follow the routes and itineraries designed and developed by the IRCTC. We help you get the requisite tickets and enjoy the journey.

As per the official website of the Maharaja Express train, you can choose any of the following packages by going through their itineraries.

Package Name	Duration	Routes	Key Attractions
Treasures of India	3 Nights / 4 Days	Delhi → Agra → Ranthambore → Jaipur → Delhi	Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park, Amber Fort
Indian Panorama	6 Nights / 7 Days	Delhi → Jaipur → Ranthambore → Fatehpur Sikri → Agra → Orchha → Khajuraho → Varanasi → Delhi	Amber Fort, City Palace Galleries, Ranthambore National Park, Taj Mahal, Khajuraho Group of Temples, Sarnath Ruins
Heritage of India	6 Nights / 7 Days	Mumbai → Udaipur → Jodhpur → Bikaner → Jaipur → Ranthambore → Fatehpur Sikri → Agra → Delhi	City Palace, Crystal Gallery, Karni Mata (Rat Temple), Junagarh Fort, Sand Dunes, Amber Fort, Ranthambore National Park, Fatehpur Sikri, Taj Mahal
Indian Splendour	6 Nights / 7 Days	Delhi → Agra → Ranthambore → Jaipur → Bikaner → Jodhpur → Udaipur → Mumbai	Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park, Amber Fort, Junagarh Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, Lake Pichola, City Palace & Crystal Gallery

Treasures of India (3 Nights/4 Days)

This journey starts in Delhi and takes you to Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur before returning to Delhi. Its detailed itinerary is as follows:

Day 1 –DELHI – AGRA

06:15 Welcome and check in at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station

07:30 Breakfast on board as Maharajas' Express proceeds to Agra

11:30 Tour briefing on board

12:30 Lunch on board

14:30 Proceed to visit the Taj Mahal

18:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. You may relax on board or choose optional activities

19:30 Dinner on board, overnight at Agra

Day 2 –AGRA - RANTHAMBORE

06:00 Proceed to visit the Agra Fort

08:10 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. Breakfast on board as the Maharajas' Express proceeds to Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore)

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Proceed for a game drive at Ranthambore National Park

17:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

18:00 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Jaipur

19:30 Enjoy an "Indian Evening" followed by dinner on board

Day 3 –JAIPUR

07:00 Breakfast on board

08:15 Proceed to visit the Amber Fort

13:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

13:30 Lunch on board. Post lunch, relax on board or choose optional activities

18:00 Proceed for dinner at Hotel Rambagh Palace

21:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

22:35 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Delhi

Day 4 –DELHI

07:30 Breakfast on board

09:30 Disembark and bid farewell to the Maharajas' Express as your journey comes to an end!

The Indian Panorama  (6 Nights/7 Days) 

This 6-night, 7-day trip starts in Delhi, takes you to Jaipur, Ranthambore, Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Orchha, Khajuraho, and Varanasi before returning to Delhi. Its detailed itinerary is:

Day 1 (Sunday) –DELHI – JAIPUR

07:30 Welcome and check in at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station. Breakfast on board

09:00 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Jaipur

12:00 Tour briefing on board

13:30 Lunch on board

15:30 Arrive in Jaipur and proceed to visit Amber Fort

20:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. Dinner on board. Overnight on the train at Jaipur

Day 2 (Monday) –JAIPUR

08:00 Breakfast on board

09:00 Visit the City Palace Galleries

13:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express for lunch on board

14:00 Post lunch, relax on board, or choose optional activities

18:00 Proceed for dinner at Hotel Rambagh Palace

21:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

23:00 Maharajas' Express leaves for Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore)

Day 3 (Tuesday) –RANTHAMBORE – FATEHPUR SIKRI

06:15 Arrives in Sawai Madhopur and proceeds for a Game Drive at Ranthambore National Park

09:45 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express and Breakfast on board

10:15 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Fatehpur Sikri

13:30 Lunch on board

14:45 Arrive at Fatehpur Sikri

15:00 Visit the deserted Mughal City of Fatehpur Sikri

18:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

19:30 Dinner on board

Day 4 (Wednesday) –AGRA

06:15 Arrive in Agra and proceed to visit the Taj Mahal

09:00 Breakfast at Taj Khema

11:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

14:00 Lunch on board. Post lunch, relax on board, or you may choose optional activities

19:30 Dinner on board

22:00 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Orchha

Day 5 (Thursday) –ORCHHA – KHAJURAHO

06:30 Train Arrives in Orchha and proceeds to visit Orchha Fort and village tour by TukTuk

09:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express and Breakfast on board

09:45 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Khajuraho

13:30 Lunch on board

15:00 Arrive at Khajuraho and proceed to visit the Western Group of Temples

18:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

19:30 Enjoy an "Indian Evening" followed by dinner on board

21:45 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Varanasi

Day 6 (Friday) –VARANASI

08:00 Enjoy the countryside while having Breakfast on board

08:50 Arrive in Varanasi. Relax on board, or you may choose optional activities

11:30 Proceed for excursion - Sarnath ruins, Silk Weaving Centre and lunch at Hotel Taj Ganges

16:45 Proceed for a boat ride on the Ganges to witness Evening Aarti

20:00 Return to the comforts of the Maharajas' Express and dinner on board

20:30 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Delhi

Day 7 (Saturday) –DELHI

09:00 Enjoy the countryside while having brunch on board

12:45 Disembark and bid farewell to the Maharajas' Express as your journey comes to an end! 

The Indian Splendour

This 6-night, 7-day journey starts in Delhi and ends in Mumbai, taking you to Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. Its detailed itinerary:

Day 1 (Sunday) –DELHI - AGRA

06:15 Welcome and check in at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station

07:30 Breakfast on board as Maharajas' Express proceeds to Agra

11:30 Tour briefing on board

12:30 Lunch on board

14:30 Train arrives in Agra and proceeds to visit the Taj Mahal

18:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. You may relax on board or choose optional activities

19:30 Dinner on board, overnight at Agra

Day 2 (Monday) –AGRA - RANTHAMBORE

06:00 Proceed to visit the Agra Fort

08:10 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. Breakfast on board as the Maharajas' Express proceeds to Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore)

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Proceed for a game drive at Ranthambore National Park

17:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

18:00 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Jaipur

19:30 Dinner on board

Day 3 (Tuesday) –JAIPUR

07:00 Breakfast on board

08:15 Proceed to visit the Amber Fort

13:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

13:30 Lunch on board. Post lunch, relax on board or choose optional activities

18:00 Proceed for dinner at Hotel Rambagh Palace

22:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

23:00 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Bikaner

Day 4 (Wednesday) –BIKANER

08:00 Arrives in Bikaner and Breakfast on board

09:30 Relax on board or choose optional activities

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Proceed to visit the Junagarh Fort, followed by sundowners at Sand Dunes

17:30 Arrive at the Sand Dunes, followed by a cocktail and barbecue dinner with folk dances

20:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

21:30 Train leaves for Jodhpur

Day 5 (Thursday) –JODHPUR

08:00 Arrive in Jodhpur and Breakfast on board

09:00 Relax on board, or you may choose optional activities

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Proceed to visit the Mehrangarh Fort, followed by a TukTuk ride and a walking tour of the Old Clock Tower market

17:30 Proceed for an exclusive cocktail dinner at Khaas Bagh, a heritage hotel

20:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

22:00 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Udaipur

Day 6 (Friday) –UDAIPUR

08:00 Breakfast on board

10:00 Arrive in Udaipur. Proceed for a boat ride on Lake Pichola, followed by a visit to the City Palace and the Crystal Gallery

13:30 Lunch at Satkar Hall of Fateh Prakash Palace, a heritage hotel

15:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. Relax on board, or choose optional activities

19:30 Enjoy an "Indian evening" on board, followed by dinner

21:20 Train proceeds to Mumbai

Day 7 (Saturday) –MUMBAI

08:00 Enjoy the countryside while having Breakfast on board

13:30 Lunch on board

16:20 Train arrives in Mumbai (CSMT). Disembark and bid farewell to the Maharajas' Express as your journey comes to an end!

The Heritage of India

This 6-night, 7-day journey starts in Mumbai and takes you to Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Fatehpur Sikri, and Agra before ending in Delhi. Its detailed itinerary:

Day 1 (Sunday) –MUMBAI

08:30 Welcome and registration, followed by a tour briefing at the Hotel Taj Mahal Palace

09:45 Proceed for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) Railway Station, Mumbai, to board Maharajas' Express

10:50 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Udaipur

13:00 Lunch on board

19:00 Dinner on board

Day 2 (Monday) –UDAIPUR

07:30 Breakfast on board

08:30 Arrives in Udaipur

09:30 Proceed for a boat ride on Lake Pichola, followed by a visit to the City Palace and the Crystal Gallery

13:00 Exclusive lunch at Satkar Hall of Fateh Prakash Palace, a heritage hotel

15:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. Relax on board, or you may choose optional activities

19:30 Dinner on board

21:20 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Jodhpur

Day 3 (Tuesday) –JODHPUR

07:00 Enjoy the countryside while having Breakfast on board

08:30 Relax on board, or you may choose optional activities

10:00 Arrival at Jodhpur

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Proceed to visit the Mehrangarh Fort, followed by a TukTuk ride and a walking tour of the Old Clock Tower market

17:30 Proceed for an exclusive cocktail dinner at Khaas Bagh, a heritage hotel

20:30 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

23:45 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Bikaner

Day 4 (Wednesday) –BIKANER

07:30 Arrive in Deshnok, you have an option to visit the famous Rat temple at Deshnok

08:30 Breakfast on board as Maharajas' Express proceeds to Bikaner

09:30 Arrive in Bikaner. Relax on board, or you may choose optional activities

13:00 Lunch on board

14:30 Visit to Junagarh Fort followed by sundowners at Sand Dunes

17:30 Arrive at the Sand Dunes, followed by a cocktail and barbecue dinner with folk dances

20:30 Return to the comforts of the Maharajas' Express

21:40 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Jaipur

Day 5 (Thursday) –JAIPUR

07:00 Enjoy the countryside while having Breakfast on board

08:15 Arrive in Jaipur and proceed to visit Amber Fort

13:00 After sightseeing, proceed to Hotel Rambagh Palace for lunch

15:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express. Relax on board, or you may choose optional activities

19:30 Dinner on board

23:00 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore)

Day 6 (Friday) –RANTHAMBORE - FATEHPUR SIKRI

06:15 Proceed for a game drive at Ranthambore National Park

09:45 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express and Breakfast on board

10:15 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Fatehpur Sikri

13:30 Lunch on board

14:45 Arrive at Fatehpur Sikri

15:00 Visit the deserted Mughal City of Fatehpur Sikri

18:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express

19:30 Enjoy an "Indian Evening" followed by dinner on board

Day 7 (Saturday) –AGRA - DELHI

06:00 Arrive in Agra and proceed to visit the Taj Mahal

10:00 Return to the comforts of Maharajas' Express and Breakfast on board

10:40 Maharajas' Express proceeds to Delhi

14:00 Lunch on board

16:30 Disembark and bid farewell to the Maharajas' Express as your journey comes to an end! 

Maharaja Express Departure Dates

Managed by IRCTC, the Maharaja Express, a luxury train in India, follows different schedules each year based on the itinerary. 

Here is the Maharaja Express train departure dates for the season 2026-27:

	The Indian Panorama (6 Nights and 7 Days)	The Indian Splendour (6 Nights and 7 Days)	The Heritage of India (6 Nights and 7 Days)	Treasures of India (3 Nights and 4 Days)
Month/Day	Sunday	Sunday	Sunday	Wednesday/Sunday
Sep. 2026				30
Oct. 2026	4	11	18	25
Nov. 2026	1, 29	8	15	22
Dec. 2026	27	6	13	20
Jan. 2027	24	3, 31	10	17
Feb. 2027	21	28	7	14
Apr. 2027			4

Here is the Maharaja Express train departure dates for the season 2027-28:

	The Indian Panorama (6 Nights and 7 Days)	The Indian Splendour (6 Nights and 7 Days)	The Heritage of India (6 Nights and 7 Days)	Treasures of India (3 Nights and 4 Days)
Month/Day	Sunday	Sunday	Sunday	Wednesday/Sunday
Oct-27	3, 31	10	17	24
Nov-27	28	7	14	21
Dec-27	26	5	12	19
Jan-28	23	2, 30	9	16
Feb-28	20	27	6	13
Mar-28	19	26	5	12
Apr-28	9		2

Accommodation on Maharaja Express

Inspired by India's royal heritage, the Maharaja Express train offers highly comfortable accommodation. Each cabin inside the train blends traditional elegance with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. Guests can choose from four categories, each offering personalised service, luxurious furnishings, and thoughtfully designed interiors.

Deluxe Cabin

The Deluxe Cabin provides elegant décor, comfortable bedding, en-suite facilities, climate control, and large windows for enjoying the changing landscapes throughout the journey.

Junior Suite

The Junior Suite offers additional space, stylish interiors, a sitting area, and premium amenities, making it ideal for travellers seeking enhanced comfort.

Suite

The Suite provides separate living and sleeping areas, luxurious furnishings, exclusive services, and an elevated travel experience inspired by royal lifestyles.

Presidential Suite

The Presidential Suite occupies an entire carriage and offers unmatched privacy, lavish interiors, spacious living areas, and personalised hospitality for an extraordinary journey.

Onboard Facilities and Luxury Experiences

The Maharaja Express is carefully designed to deliver exceptional comfort, a sense of royalty, and unforgettable experiences. Guests enjoy extraordinary hospitality throughout their journey to India's most notable destinations. The luxury train combines traditional charm with modern conveniences to make every moment special. From personalised butler service and royal dining to comfortable lounges and comprehensive safety arrangements, every aspect of the journey aboard the Maharaja Express train reflects world-class luxury.

Fine Dining Restaurants

The train features two beautifully designed restaurants that serve Indian and international cuisine prepared by expert chefs using fresh ingredients and authentic flavours.

Butler Service

Each guest receives dedicated butler service, ensuring personalised attention and assistance throughout the journey for a seamless travel experience.

Safari Bar

The Safari Bar offers a refined setting where guests can relax and enjoy premium beverages, cocktails, and conversations with fellow travellers.

Rajah Club Lounge

It provides an elegant lounge area for socialising, reading, or simply unwinding after a day of sightseeing and cultural experiences.

Medical and Safety Facilities

The train is equipped with medical support, modern safety systems, and trained staff to ensure guests enjoy a comfortable and secure journey.

Destinations Covered by the Maharaja Express Luxury Train

The Maharaja Express journeys take travellers through some of India's most celebrated cultural, historical, and natural attractions. It offers a notable introduction to the country's diverse heritage and timeless beauty.

Delhi

This city perfectly blends historic sites, monuments, modern attractions, and architectural masterpieces. It offers a glimpse of the country's rich and dynamic history.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the Pink City, is known for magnificent forts, royal palaces, colourful bazaars, and the enduring traditions of Rajasthan's regal heritage.

Agra

Agra is home to the globally famous Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and centuries of Mughal history that continue to attract visitors from across the world.

Ranthambore

Ranthambore National Park offers thrilling wildlife experiences and the opportunity to spot Bengal tigers within one of India's finest natural habitats.

Udaipur

This city captivates travellers with its serene lakes, royal palaces, romantic atmosphere, and colourful streets. It is known as the City of Lakes.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur features the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, blue-painted houses, vibrant markets, and a rich cultural heritage unique to Rajasthan.

Varanasi

It is one of the world's oldest living cities. This city is known for its spiritual significance, temples, sacred ghats, and evening Ganga Aarti.

Khajuraho

Khajuraho is famous for its UNESCO-listed temples, stunning sculptures, and artistic heritage that reflect India's architectural brilliance.

Bikaner

It is famous for its camel traditions, grand forts, desert landscapes, and historic palaces. This city showcases Rajasthan's unique character.

Mumbai

Mumbai combines colonial architecture, vibrant culture, modern lifestyles, and iconic landmarks, making it India's dynamic commercial and entertainment capital.

Why Choose the Maharaja Express for a Rail Journey in India?

This Indian luxury train offers an exceptional way to explore the country's cultural treasures without compromising on comfort. Guests enjoy luxurious accommodation, exclusive sightseeing tours, world-class dining, and personalised service during the entire journey.

The well-planned itineraries cover famous destinations and offer unique experiences that can't be replicated through ordinary travel. The Maharaja Express luxury train offers a seamless blend of heritage, elegance, and unforgettable memories, whether you wish to explore royal Rajasthan, spiritual Varanasi, or the magnificent Taj Mahal.

Who Should Travel on Maharaja Express?

The Maharaja Express train appeals to domestic and international travellers seeking a distinguished and luxurious holiday. It is an ideal travel option for visitors who value personalised services and extreme comfort. The train is ideal for:

• Luxury travellers
• Honeymoon couples
• Senior travellers
• Cultural explorers
• Photography enthusiasts
• International visitors
• Bucket-list travellers

How to Book Maharaja Express with Cholan Tours

Cholan Tours is an authorised travel agent. Good business collaboration with IRCTC enables us to assist domestic and international travellers in boarding trains and enjoying a luxurious journey. To book Maharaja Express train tickets with us, follow the methods mentioned below:

• Email - Share your travel style and needs with us at enquiry@cholantours.com.
• Phone Call - You can call us at +91 96773 55555 to disclose your travel needs and probable dates. Our representatives will help you book the train tickets.
• WhatsApp - Open WhatsApp and type +91 96773 55555 to search for us. Say Hi and share your travel interests. We will assist you in booking the desired suites on the Maharaja Express train.
• Online Form - Fill out the form by entering your name, mobile number, and allied details. We will get back to you soon and help you book your train ticket according to your preferences.