The Maharaja Express Train offers a luxurious way to explore India. It’s known for comfort, personalized service, and carefully designed travel routes. If you are planning a journey through India's rich culture and history, this train can be a strong option. This guide covers all parts of the Maharaja Express train route. You'll find clear details about the journeys, cities, and what to expect each day.
Overview of the Maharaja Express The Maharaja Express is managed by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Since 2010, it has been offering high-end train journeys across different regions of India. The train has won several awards for quality and service. Unlike standard trains, this one follows planned routes with fixed dates. Each journey includes historic cities, cultural sites, and short guided excursions. Routes range from three to seven nights.
What Makes the Routes Stand Out Every Maharaja Express route is designed to highlight a different part of India. These routes focus on historic landmarks, palaces, wildlife parks, and traditional markets. You don’t just pass by places—you stop, visit, and experience them. You’ll have time to see major attractions without rushing. The train serves as both travel and accommodation, letting you relax between destinations.
Complete List of Maharaja Express Train Routes There are four main journeys available. Each has its own schedule and set of cities. 1. Heritage of India This is a long journey starting from Mumbai and ending in Delhi. It covers Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ranthambore, and Agra. Stops include forts, temples, and wildlife parks. • Duration – 7 nights / 8 days • Best for travelers who want to visit royal cities 2. Treasures of India This is a short journey with major highlights. The train travels from Delhi to Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur. You’ll see the Taj Mahal, enjoy a wildlife safari, and tour palaces. • Duration – 3 nights / 4 days • Best for quick trips 3. Indian Panorama This route begins and ends in Delhi. It covers Jaipur, Ranthambore, Agra, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Varanasi, and Lucknow. It brings together religion, architecture, and history. • Duration – 6 nights / 7 days • Best for guests interested in cultural variety 4. Indian Splendour This journey goes from Delhi to Mumbai. It includes Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. Travelers can expect a mix of desert cities, lakeside views, and famous buildings. • Duration – 6 nights / 7 days • Best for those who enjoy grand palaces and rich local stories
Day-by-Day Travel Schedule Although each Maharaja Express train route is unique, the daily pattern remains similar across journeys. Here's what a typical day looks like on board. Morning Guests begin with breakfast in their cabins or dining cars. After that, they leave for local tours. These trips may include sightseeing, heritage walks, or cultural shows. Afternoon Lunch is either served on board or at a local venue. In some cities, meals are arranged inside old palaces or heritage hotels. Evening Guests return to the train by early evening. The rest of the night is free for dinner, rest, or interaction with other travelers. This routine keeps your days full without being tiring. Travel takes place mostly at night, so days are spent exploring new places.
Choosing the Right Journey Every traveler has different goals. The Maharaja Express offers options for various interests and schedules. Based on Interests • History fans: Indian Panorama and Heritage of India • Wildlife and nature: Treasures of India • Religious sites: Indian Panorama Based on Time • For short breaks: Treasures of India • For extended tours: Heritage of India or Indian Splendour Based on Season The best months to travel are between October and March. These months offer cooler weather. During summer, some cities can be very hot. Ranthambore is best visited from November to April. This is when chances of seeing tigers are better.
Starting and Ending Points Journeys start or end in Delhi or Mumbai. These cities have major international airports, making travel easier. Make sure you reach the departure city at least one day in advance. This helps with check-in, orientation, and settling in before the trip begins.
Link Between Train and Route Experience The design of each Maharaja Express route matches the luxury inside the train. While moving between cities, guests enjoy large cabins, private bathrooms, and gourmet meals. Lounge cars are available for relaxing and socializing. Guests can also spend time reading or enjoying quiet views from large windows. Staff members are always ready to help. They manage everything, including tour schedules, meals, and cabin needs.
How to Book Based on Routes Booking is available on the IRCTC Luxury Trains website or through approved travel partners. While booking, focus on: • Length of the journey • Cities covered • Time of year • Interests and comfort level Peak seasons often fill up months ahead. Booking early is advised for preferred dates and routes. Sometimes, you may find offers for early bookings or less crowded months.
Answers to Common Route Questions Do we leave the train during stops? Yes. Every day includes off-board activities. These can be local tours, cultural visits, or wildlife drives. Guides lead the groups and explain the sites. How much time do we get in each city? On most days, 4 to 6 hours are planned for each stop. Some locations may have longer visits, depending on the activity. Can I change the route? No. All itineraries are fixed. The train follows a set schedule and route. You must select your journey before boarding. Is the Taj Mahal included? Yes, but only on some routes. Treasures of India, Indian Splendour, and Indian Panorama include a visit to Agra.
How Routes Add to the Experience Each route includes not only stops but also travel between them. Watching the countryside pass by from your cabin adds to the trip. The train travels mostly during night hours. This gives you full days to explore cities. You never have to carry luggage or check in at hotels. Instead, your cabin moves with you. It stays private and quiet, no matter which city you're visiting.
Final Tips for Route Selection • Read the full itinerary before booking • Match your interests with city stops • Check weather for the time of year • Confirm what's included: meals, tours, shows By selecting the route that matches your travel goals, you make the most of what the train offers.