Travelling by trains in India has always been one of the most fascinating things for the country’s beautiful scenery and culture. However, what if the experience was more than just the means for getting from point A to point B? Picture yourself travelling in an actual palace, living in style and luxury and tasting the finest cuisines while viewing some of India’s great attractions. Off you go to the next level of travel, luxury travelling, admired by Indian Railways.
Top 10 Luxury Trains in India
Here are the top 10 luxury trains in India, which will fascinate travellers looking for personalized exotic luxuries.
1. Maharajas’ Express
Image Courtesy – Maharajas Express
Being one of the most beneficial rail services in the world, Maharaja’s Express is India’s king of luxury trains. This 23 carriages elongated train comprises several rooms & spaces, four of which are versatile to accommodate different functions that are fundamentally different but uniquely stunning in their own right. Each room looks noble and charming, offering visitors retro furniture, silk bedclothes, exquisite carpets, and gilded pictures. You can also find restaurants and bars that serve a wide range of meals and beverages. It is truly a guest’s paradise by featuring 24-7 butler service, climate control for each unit, flat screen television and wireless Internet included. The meals are on silver and gold lined plates to complement the drinks that are in Swarovski crystal glasses for a better experience.
Routes and Journeys:
- Heritage of India: Mumbai – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Delhi (7 Days/6 Nights)
- Treasures of India: Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi (4 Days/3 Nights)
- Indian Panorama: Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Orchha – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi (7 Days/6 Nights)
- Indian Splendour: Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Mumbai (7 Days/6 Nights)
Pricing:
- Starts at $4,890 (₹4,06,000) for a Deluxe Cabin.
- Presidential Suite: $24,980 (₹20,72,000).
2. Palace on Wheels
Launched in 1982, the Palace on Wheels was the first and one of the oldest luxury trains in India. Inspired by the royal carriages of Rajput Maharajas, each of its 14 saloons represents a different princely state, decorated with unique themes and traditional artwork. The train traverses Rajasthan’s most iconic destinations, including Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer.
Passengers enjoy royal-style accommodations, gourmet dining, and exceptional hospitality. The journey typically spans seven nights and eight days, covering approximately 2,000 kilometers of magnificent landscapes.
Route and Journey:
- Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi (7 Days/8 Nights)
Pricing:
- Starts at $9,296 (₹7,71,500) for a Deluxe Cabin.
3. The Golden Chariot
Image Courtesy – Golden Chariot Official Site
Covering the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Goa, the Golden Chariot offers a unique perspective of South India’s rich heritage. The train’s interiors are inspired by the architectural splendor of Mysore and Hoysala temples, with intricate carvings and traditional design elements.
Featuring 44 elegantly appointed cabins across 11 coaches, each named after a dynasty, the train offers two primary routes: “Pride of Karnataka” and “Glimpses of Karnataka.” The journey includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, wildlife reserves, and historic temples.
Routes and Journeys:
- Pride of Karnataka (6 Days/5 Nights): Bengaluru – Mysore – Halebidu – Chikkamagaluru – Hampi – Goa – Bengaluru
- Glimpses of Karnataka (4 Days/3 Nights): Bengaluru – Mysore – Hospet – Bengaluru
- Jewels of South (6 Days/5 Nights): Bengaluru – Mysore – Mahabalipuram – Chettinad – Cochin – Bengaluru
Pricing:
- Starts at $2,370 (₹1,96,500) per person for a double occupancy cabin.
- Goes up to $4,740 (₹3,93,000) for premium suites.
4. Deccan Odyssey
Image Courtesy – Deccan Odyssey Official Site
Inspired by the Maharajas’ Express, the Deccan Odyssey offers a luxurious exploration of Maharashtra’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. The train features 21 luxurious coaches, each named after different dynasties that ruled the Deccan region. Its carefully curated itineraries cover destinations like Mumbai, Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Nashik, and the coastal regions.
Travelers can choose from six different circuits, with journeys ranging from 3 to 7 nights. The train provides world-class amenities, including a spa, conference car, and fine dining restaurants.
Routes and Journeys:
- Heritage Odyssey (8 Days/7 Nights): Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Jaisalmer – Delhi
- Maharashtra Splendor (8 Days/7 Nights): Mumbai – Nashik – Ellora Caves – Ajanta Caves – Goa – Mumbai
Pricing:
- Starts at $8,330 (₹6,91,000) per person.
5. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
Image Courtesy – Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Official Site
Another magnificent train focusing exclusively on Rajasthan, the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels offers a slightly more compact but equally luxurious experience compared to the Palace on Wheels. The train features 13 elegantly designed coaches, each representing a different theme of Rajasthani and Indian royal heritage.
The journey covers major destinations like Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaipur, and includes visits to national parks and historic sites. With world-class amenities, including a spa, bar, and fine dining restaurants, the experience is truly royal.
Route and Journey:
- (8 Days/7 Nights): Delhi – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Agra – Delhi
Pricing:
- Starts at $4,130 (₹3,43,000) and goes up to $11,200 (₹9,30,000).
6. Fairy Queen
A unique entry in India’s luxury train segment, the Fairy Queen is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest running steam locomotive. Operating between Delhi and Alwar, this train offers a nostalgic journey through time, perfect for heritage enthusiasts and train lovers.
The two-day weekend special journey includes a visit to Sariska Tiger Reserve and provides a glimpse into colonial-era train travel. With limited but comfortable seating, this train offers a more intimate experience.
Route and Journey:
- (2 Days/1 Night): Delhi – Alwar – Sariska – Alwar – Delhi
Pricing:
- Starts at $90 (₹7,500) per person.
7. The Buddhist Circuit Train
Operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), this specialized train focuses on Buddhist pilgrimage sites. The journey covers important Buddhist destinations in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, including Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Sarnath. While not as luxurious as other trains on this list, it offers comfortable accommodations and a deeply spiritual experience.
Route and Journey:
- (8 Days/7 Nights): Delhi – Bodhgaya – Nalanda – Sarnath – Lumbini – Kushinagar – Delhi
Pricing:
- Starts at $1,260 (₹1,05,000).
8. Hill Tower Heritage Train
Operating in the picturesque Darjeeling hill region, this historic narrow-gauge train is a UNESCO World Heritage site. While not a luxury train in the traditional sense, it offers a unique and charming journey through tea plantations and mountainous landscapes.
The toy train, as it’s fondly called, provides a nostalgic journey reminiscent of colonial-era travel. Prices are modest, around $50 to $100 (₹4,000 to ₹8,000) for different route options.
9. Mahaparinirvan Express
Image Courtesy – Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train Official Site
Specifically designed for Buddhist pilgrims and travelers interested in Buddhist history, this train covers major Buddhist sites across India. The journey includes destinations like Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, and Varanasi.
While more functional than overtly luxurious, the train offers comfortable accommodations and a deeply meaningful travel experience. Prices are reasonable, around $1,000 to $1,800 (₹83,000 to ₹150,000) for a comprehensive journey.
10. Vistadome Trains
The Vistadome Trains offer a unique luxurious experience designed for travelers who love to admire breathtaking scenery. These trains are equipped with glass ceilings and large windows, providing panoramic views of India’s stunning landscapes. While not as lavish as the Maharajas’ Express or the Palace on Wheels, Vistadome Trains are the perfect choice for nature enthusiasts who want to combine comfort and exceptional sightseeing.
The train operates on several picturesque routes, including Mumbai–Goa, Bangalore–Mangalore, and the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Tamil Nadu. With plush seating, air-conditioned coaches, rotating seats, and onboard food service, Vistadome Trains offer a comfortable yet immersive travel experience.
Route and Journey:
Mumbai–Madgaon (Konkan Railways)
Bangalore–Mangalore (through Western Ghats)
Visakhapatnam–Araku Valley (Eastern Ghats)
Pricing:
Starts at $30–$70 (₹2,500–₹6,000) per person, depending on the route.
This train is perfect for travelers who prefer scenic beauty paired with modern comfort, making it an unforgettable luxury train experience.
Final Thoughts
India’s luxury trains combine luxury and heritage, the best of royalty with modern comforts, to provide the ultimate in comfort when travelling through the country’s cultural and natural wonders. These trains guarantee that every moment is extraordinary whether you’re celebrating a milestone or in search of a unplanned for journey of a lifetime.
These premium trains in India transport you through a historical, cultural and lavish landscape for those who are yearning for some of the best travel experiences. Ready? Pack your bags and jet off on a trip into luxury time.