Maharajas' Express: The Indian Panorama

Overview

Embark on a luxurious journey aboard the Maharajas' Express, where royalty, spirituality, and wilderness converge. The Indian Panorama itinerary unveils India’s hidden treasures, celebrated for their stunning beauty and rich cultural diversity. Begin in the vibrant capital of Delhi, then explore the colourful landscapes of Jaipur and the lush wilderness of Ranthambore. Discover the ancient Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri, marvel at the timeless Taj Mahal in Agra and visit Varanasi, where the serene beauty of the River Ganges provides a spiritual finale before returning back to Delhi.

Inclusions

Private ensuite accommodation on the Maharajas' Express – Deluxe Cabin

All meals, along with tea, coffee, mineral water, a selection of house brands of Indian wines, beer and spirits

Expertly guided off-train excursions with an English-speaking guide

Off-train tours provided in Deluxe coaches

Entrance fees to all palaces, museums and parks

An excellent team of professionals onboard to assist guests throughout the journey

Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive in Delhi Jaipur

Gather at Delhi Safdarjung Station this morning to complete the check-in formalities before departing for Jaipur. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard as the journey begins, followed by a tour briefing and an opportunity to meet the crew.

After lunch onboard, disembark to explore the magnificent Amber Fort, dramatically set among the rugged hills surrounding Jaipur. Commissioned by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and expanded by successive rulers, the fort showcases a captivating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Built from red sandstone and white marble, its imposing exterior gives way to ornate courtyards, intricate detailing and elegant palace interiors.

Return to the comfort of the train for dinner and an overnight stay onboard.

Overnight stay aboard Maharajas' Express.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Amber Fort

Day 2 Jaipur

After breakfast onboard, disembark to explore Jaipur’s remarkable City Palace complex and its museums and galleries, followed by visits to the Jantar Mantar Observatory and Albert Hall Museum. Return to the train for lunch, then enjoy some time at leisure onboard or participate in the optional activities available.

In the evening, enjoy an exclusive dinner at Rambagh Palace. Originally built in 1835 as a garden retreat, the palace became the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1925 and remained so until 1957. Today, it retains its royal character, with hand-carved marble latticework, elegant interiors and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Return to the Maharajas’ Express as the train departs for Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to Ranthambore.

Overnight stay aboard Maharajas' Express.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Jaipur

Day 3 Ranthambore Fatehpur Sikri

Arrive in Sawai Madhopur in the early morning and set out on a thrilling game drive through Ranthambore National Park, one of India’s most renowned wildlife reserves. Keep watch for Bengal tigers, along with leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer and a variety of birdlife, as the landscape of forests, lakes and ancient ruins unfolds around you.

Return to the Maharajas’ Express for breakfast as the train continues towards Agra. Enjoy lunch onboard before arriving at Fatehpur Sikri, the remarkable 16th-century Mughal city built by Emperor Akbar. Explore its impressive palaces, courtyards and monuments, including the striking Buland Darwaza. Often referred to as the “ghost city”, Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned as the imperial capital after only a few decades.

Return to the comfort of the Maharajas’ Express for dinner and an overnight stay onboard.

Overnight stay aboard Maharajas' Express.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Fatehpur Sikri

Day 4 Agra

Arrive in Agra early this morning and set out to visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of India’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this extraordinary monument of white marble is renowned for its symmetry, intricate craftsmanship and timeless beauty.

After the visit, enjoy breakfast at Taj Khema before returning to the Maharajas’ Express. Lunch is served onboard, followed by an afternoon visit to the impressive Agra Fort. Explore this magnificent red sandstone fortress, once the principal residence of the Mughal emperors, before enjoying the Mohabbat-e-Taj show, which brings the romantic story behind the Taj Mahal to life through music, dance and theatrical performance.

Return to the train for dinner as the Maharajas’ Express continues towards Orchha.

Overnight stay aboard Maharajas' Express.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Taj Mahal

Day 5 Orchha Khajuraho

Arrive in Orchha early this morning and explore the remarkable Orchha Fort complex, set amidst the picturesque landscape along the Betwa River. Discover its impressive palaces and temples before continuing with a village tour by tuk-tuk, offering an insight into local life and the timeless character of this historic town.

Return to the Maharajas’ Express for breakfast as the train continues towards Khajuraho. Enjoy lunch onboard before arriving in Khajuraho, renowned for its extraordinary group of temples and intricate stone carvings. Explore the Western Group of Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its exquisite architecture and detailed sculptures dating from the 10th and 11th centuries.

Return to the train in the early evening and enjoy an Indian Evening, followed by dinner onboard. Later, the Maharajas’ Express continues overnight towards Varanasi.

Overnight stay aboard Maharajas' Express.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Orchha Fort

Day 6 Varanasi

Enjoy breakfast onboard as the train travels through the Indian countryside before arriving in Varanasi, one of India’s oldest and most spiritually significant cities. Continue to Sarnath, where the Buddha is believed to have delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the ancient ruins before visiting a traditional silk weaving centre, followed by lunch at the Taj Ganges.

In the late afternoon, experience Varanasi from the Ganges during a memorable boat ride, culminating in the spectacular evening Aarti ceremony, when prayers, lamps and music create a deeply atmospheric experience along the river.

Return to the Maharajas’ Express for dinner before departing Varanasi and travelling overnight towards Delhi.

Overnight stay aboard Maharajas' Express.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Varanasi

Day 7 Delhi

Enjoy a leisurely brunch onboard as the Maharajas’ Express makes its way towards Delhi. Upon arrival, disembark and bid farewell to the train and crew, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable journey through the highlights, history and cultural heritage of India.

Breakfast

Delhi

Accommodation

Maharajas' Express

Upgrade available

For your safety and comfort, the train is fitted with CCTV cameras, smoke alarms, RFID door locks, and the continuous presence of a paramedic. Your luxury experience on the Maharajas' Express promises to be truly extraordinary.

DELUXE CABIN

The Deluxe Cabins aboard the Maharajas' Express are elegantly designed and named after precious gems, including Hakik (Agate), Firoza (Turquoise), Katela (Amethyst), Beruz (Aquamarine), and Pitoniya (Bloodstone), reflecting the opulence and grandeur of the overall experience.

Each Deluxe Cabin on the Maharajas’ Express is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. These include Wi-Fi, an intercom system, a DVD player, LED screen, a wardrobe, foldable writing desk and a personal electronic safe. The cabins are air-conditioned and feature en-suite bathroom facilities with a shower, hot and cold water and a WC. To enhance your luxury experience, bathrobes, slippers, a hairdryer, and premium toiletries infused with essential oils are provided. The train features 20 Deluxe Cabins: 12 of which have twin beds and 8 with double beds.

Room Upgrades

Junior Suites

The Maharajas’ Express features 18 Junior Suites with ensuite, with 12 offering twin beds and 6 with double beds. Each suite is designed with large panoramic windows, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of India throughout your journey.

Double/Twin room
Butler service
Shower cubicle & basin with hot and cold running water - with a range of toiletries
Bathrobe & slippers provided
Towels and linens changed daily or upon request
Hairdryer
Wardrobe & writing table
Luggage hold under the bed
TV & International telephone facility (costs may apply)
Personal safe
Complimentary tea, coffee, mineral water and light snacks available at all times
Wi-Fi internet (subject to network availability)
DVD player
Cabin-controlled air conditioning

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Suites

The Maharajas' Express features four Suites, each with double beds and large panoramic windows to ensure you can fully appreciate the splendour of India throughout your journey. The suites are further enhanced with amenities such as a complimentary mini-bar and a bathtub. Suite guests enjoy the privilege of a dedicated multilingual guide and a luxury car for all off-board excursions. The suites include a separate living room and bedroom, upholstered armchairs with a side table, a writing table, a complimentary mini-bar and luggage storage underneath the bed.

Double bed only
Dedicated butler service
Shower cubicle & bath tub with hot and cold running water - with a range of toiletries
Bathrobe & slippers provided
Towels and linens changed daily or upon request
Hairdryer
Wardrobe & writing table
Luggage hold under the bed
Mini-bar
TV & International telephone facility (costs may apply)
Personal safe
Complimentary tea, coffee, mineral water and light snacks available at all times
Wi-Fi internet (subject to network availability)
DVD player
Cabin-controlled air conditioning

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Presidential Suite

The Presidential Suite spans an entire carriage, offering the pinnacle of luxury and elegance. It features a separate sitting and dining area, a bedroom with spacious bathrooms equipped with a bathtub and showers and all the modern amenities. The Presidential Suite includes interconnected cabins, accommodating up to four guests, providing an unparalleled experience to indulge in Maharaja-style opulence. Presidential Suite guests enjoy the privilege of a dedicated multilingual guide and a luxury car for all off-board excursions.

Double/Twin room
Dedicated butler service
Shower cubicle & bath tub with hot and cold running water - with a range of toiletries
Bathrobe & slippers provided
Towels and linens changed daily or upon request
Hairdryer
Sofa
Wardrobe & writing table
Luggage storage under the bed
Mini-bar
TV & International telephone facility (costs may apply)
Personal safe
Complimentary tea, coffee, mineral water and light snacks available at all times
Wi-Fi internet (subject to network availability)
DVD player
Cabin-controlled air conditioning

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Additional information

Important: A surcharge applies to departures during or around the Christmas and New Year period.

2026 departure dates:

04 October
01 November
29 November
27 December

2027 departure dates:

24 January
21 February
21 March
03 October
31 October
28 November
26 December

2028 departure dates:

23 January
20 February
19 March
09 April

Excluded

International airfares and taxes
Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
Visa expenses, processing, and issuance fees
Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package
All ‘Optionals’ and ‘Optional Tours’ are available for an additional charge and are subject to availability. Details and pricing will be provided on board during the journey.

FAQs

What is the dress code onboard the train?

While there is no strict dress code, smart casual attire is recommended, especially for dining and off-train excursions.

Can special dietary preferences be requested?

Yes, the onboard chefs can accommodate various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with prior notice.

Will I need to tip the train staff?

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. Guidelines for tipping will be provided on board.

Is there air conditioning on board?

Onboard air-conditioning is provided, with individual control available for cabin air conditioning.

What is the check-in procedure for the Maharajas' Express?

Guests are required to check in at the designated boarding station at least an hour before departure. Luggage assistance is provided.

How much luggage can I bring with me on the train?

Passengers on the Maharajas' Express are advised to travel light due to limited storage space in the cabins. Each guest is typically allowed to bring one large suitcase and one piece of hand luggage. Additional luggage can be stored in the luggage hold, but access to this storage is limited during the journey. It's recommended to pack essentials in the cabin luggage for convenience. Soft top luggage is recommended.

Are optional excursions available on the Maharajas' Express, and is the cost included in the fare?

Yes, the Maharajas' Express offers a selection of optional excursions in addition to the scheduled ones. These may include special experiences like spa visits, private tours, or exclusive cultural events. While the cost of the main off-train excursions is included in the fare, optional excursions are typically available at an additional cost. Guests can choose and book these experiences during the journey, with guidance from the staff onboard the train.

Is there medical assistance available on board?

Yes, the train is equipped with a first-aid kit, and a paramedic is available on board throughout the journey.

Is smoking permitted onboard?

No, smoking is not permitted anywhere on board the Maharajas' Express. The train adheres to a strict no-smoking policy to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers.

Will I need travel insurance?

As with all holidays and trips abroad, we strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. Please consult with our agents at time of booking and we can assist you with this.

Maharajas' Express: The Indian Panorama (Tour code: 14202)

Highlights

Overview

Inclusions