Inside the Maharajas' Express, India's luxury train repeatedly ranked among the world's finest rail journeys

The Maharajas' Express is often described as a "palace on wheels." While that phrase has become something of a travel-writing cliché, it begins to make sense the moment a uniformed butler appears at your cabin door, a welcome drink in hand.

Repeatedly ranked among the world's finest rail journeys, the luxury train offers an experience that feels worlds away from everyday rail travel. Think plush suites inspired by India's royal residences, multi-course meals served on fine china, and itineraries that include everything from palace tours in Rajasthan to sunrise visits to the Taj Mahal.

Operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the Maharajas' Express has spent more than a decade establishing itself as one of India's most aspirational travel experiences. For some, it is a luxury hotel that happens to move. For others, it is a rare opportunity to see some of the country's most iconic destinations without constantly packing, unpacking and rushing between airports.

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More than a train ride

The Maharajas' Express currently operates several itineraries ranging from four to seven nights, covering some of North and Central India's most iconic destinations. Depending on the route, passengers can travel through Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Ranthambore National Park, Varanasi, Khajuraho and Mumbai.

One of the most popular journeys is the Heritage of India itinerary, which includes stops at the Taj Mahal, Jaipur's City Palace, Jodhpur's Mehrangarh Fort and Udaipur's lakeside palaces.

Another route takes travellers to Ranthambore, where game drives offer the chance to spot Bengal tigers between lavish meals and sightseeing excursions.

Unlike conventional rail travel, passengers spend surprisingly little time wondering what to do next. Most off-board experiences are pre-arranged and included in the fare, from guided heritage tours and cultural performances to exclusive dinners in historic venues.

What is it actually like onboard?

The train accommodates just a few dozen guests at a time, creating an atmosphere that feels closer to a boutique hotel than a railway service.

Cabins range from Deluxe Cabins and Junior Suites to Suites and an expansive Presidential Suite that spans an entire carriage. Interiors draw inspiration from India's royal heritage, featuring rich fabrics, intricate detailing and large panoramic windows that frame constantly changing landscapes.

Dining is equally elaborate. The train's two restaurants, Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal, serve a mix of Indian and international cuisine. At the same time, the Safari Bar and Rajah Club Lounge provide spaces to relax between excursions. Butler service is available throughout the journey, helping reinforce the feeling that this is hospitality first and transportation second.

How much does it cost?

The Maharajas' Express is firmly positioned at the ultra-luxury end of the market. Prices vary depending on the itinerary, season and cabin category, but fares typically begin at several thousand US dollars per person and can rise significantly for suites and the Presidential Suite.

The price may initially seem staggering, but it includes accommodation, meals, excursions, entrance fees to monuments, transport during sightseeing and many onboard amenities. For international travellers, especially, it functions as a packaged luxury holiday rather than simply a train ticket.

How do you book it?

Journeys typically operate between October and April, when temperatures across northern India are most comfortable for sightseeing. Bookings can be made through the Maharajas' Express website, IRCTC tourism channels, and select luxury travel operators.

Most itineraries begin in Delhi or Mumbai, both of which are well connected to major international airports. Travellers flying in from abroad often arrive a day early to recover from jet lag before boarding.

Why it remains one of the world's finest rail journeys

Luxury trains exist across the world, from the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Europe to South Africa's Rovos Rail. What distinguishes the Maharajas' Express is the sheer diversity of experiences packed into a single journey.

Within a week, passengers can watch sunrise over the Taj Mahal, explore Rajput forts, dine in former royal residences, spot wildlife in a national park and wake up each morning in a different part of the country—all without repeatedly checking into hotels or navigating airport queues.

That combination of heritage, hospitality and slow travel explains why the train continues to appear on lists of the world's finest rail journeys.