If you are from the UAE and reading this, chances are you already know that a luxury train journey in India is unlike any other travel experience in the world. From your private suite, designed with plush interiors, polished wood paneling and butler service on call, to the sweeping views of India’s ever-changing stunning landscapes framed by your window, this is travel that is indulgent, regal and will give you memories that you will cherish forever.
Dining in a luxury train is an experience in itself. With ornately designed restaurant cars serving multi-course meals curated by master chefs, blending royal Indian flavors with global gourmet finesse, you will be taking a culinary journey as well. Crystal glassware, fine cutlery and impeccable service elevate every moment into a memory.
Beyond the train, curated excursions await. You will disembark and explore palaces, go on guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites, wildlife safaris and cultural immersions. You will be experiencing India’s grandeur as a privileged guest.
Embark on the iconic Maharajas’ Express, a crowned jewel of rail luxury. With cabins ranging from Deluxe to a full-car Presidential Suite, each is exquisitely appointed with semi-precious stones, rich textiles and antiques. Glide through Rajasthan’s regal realm while indulging in world-class fine dining across two elegant restaurants, unwinding in the Safari Bar or Rajah Club lounge, all while benefiting from discreet 24/7 valet and butler service.This is truly royal in every sense.
Or journey aboard the Golden Chariot, where South India’s rich dynastic past is woven into every detail. Each coach is named after a great dynasty, boasting regal interior design, private spa and fitness facilities, Wi-Fi, and multi-cuisine dining. Travellers will appreciate the train’s seamless fusion of cultural immersion and modern luxury, offering an immersive retreat unlike any other.
Together, these trains promise a travel experience that is as opulent as it is exotic, sweeping you through India’s soul in unmatched style.
This opulent train chugs through some of India’s most historical and culturally rich regions. Depending on the itinerary, such as Heritage of India, Indian Panorama, Indian Splendor, or Treasures of India, you will visit stops like Delhi, Agra (for the Taj Mahal), Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Khajuraho, Orchha, Varanasi, Lucknow, Gwalior and Balasinor — home to India’s renowned dinosaur fossil park. Unique experiences include sunset boat rides on the Ganges in Varanasi, royal dinners in Balasinor, and exquisite temple tours in Khajuraho.
The Palace on Wheels takes you on a regal journey through Rajasthan and beyond, covering some of the country’s most enchanting destinations. Starting from Delhi, the train halts at Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur (for Ranthambore National Park), Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Bharatpur, before reaching Agra to witness the Taj Mahal, finally returning to Delhi. Along the way, travellers experience a blend of royal forts and palaces, desert landscapes, wildlife safaris, and world-famous heritage sites—an immersive journey into India’s history, culture and grandeur.
Embark on an elegant journey through South India on routes like Jewels of South, Pride of Karnataka, or Glimpses of Karnataka. Highlights include Bengaluru, Mysuru, the UNESCO marvels of Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, the traditional homes of Chettinad, the cultural enclave of Cochin and tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom.
This regal blue train journeys across Western and Central India. Its popular routes like the Indian Sojourn and Maharashtra Splendor include Mumbai, Vadodara, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur and Delhi. Alternate routes explore Aurangabad (gateway to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves), Tadoba Tiger Reserve, Nashik, Kolhapur and culminate in the sun-drenched beaches of Goa.
The Royal Orient luxury train offers an exquisite week-long voyage through the rich heritage of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Departing from Delhi, your journey unfolds across seven enchanting nights and eight remarkable days, visiting majestic Chittorgarh and its historic fort, the romantic lakes and palatial splendor of Udaipur and the spiritual heartlands and architectural marvels of Gujarat including Junagadh, Veraval (Somnath Temple), Sasan Gir (Asiatic lion sanctuary), Mandvi and Diu’s coastal charm, the sacred Jain temples of Palitana, followed by cultural immersion in Sarkhej and Ahmedabad before culminating in the regal Pink City of Jaipur and a return to Delhi
The world’s oldest operational steam locomotive, for a nostalgic 2-day, 1-night luxury retreat (operating on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays from October to March) departs from Delhi Cantonment, the train meanders through scenic landscapes before arriving in Alwar. Here guests are treated to a traditional Rajasthani welcome and cultural experiences at Lake Palace, Siliserh. The journey continues to the Sariska National Park, home to vibrant wildlife and heritage lodges, where an early-morning jeep safari and immersive regional hospitality await. The return voyage offers leisurely onboard dining and nostalgic charm before pulling back into Delhi the next afternoon, a journey where heritage, wildlife and refined comfort coalesce into a timeless experience.
These journeys merge India’s vibrant diversity from royal heritage and sacred rituals to UNESCO treasures and serene landscapes with the unmatched comfort and elegance of train travel.
Explore places like Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur or Mysore Palace to experience the grandeur of royalty.
Stroll through Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk or Kolkata's Dalhousie Square, or the Kumartuli Heritage walk for a glimpse of living history.
Journey on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Ooty or the Palace on Wheels.
Spend the night in a converted haveli, palace or colonial-era bungalow.
Watch classical dance (Kathakali, Bharatanatyam, Kathak) or traditional folk shows (puppet theatre, Baul music).
From the Taj Mahal to Hampi and Ajanta-Ellora caves.
See artefacts and royal treasures at Indian Museum (Kolkata), Salar Jung Museum (Hyderabad) or City Palace (Udaipur).
Experience Navaratri in Gujarat, Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan, or Bihu festival in Assam.
Taste Mughlai delicacies in Delhi, Awadhi kebabs in Lucknow, or Portuguese-Goan fusion dishes.
Buy Banarasi silk, Rajasthani block prints, Kashmiri carpets, or brassware from local artisans.
Often hailed as the pinnacle of rail luxury, this train offers extravagance in motion with elegant cabins, private butler service, gourmet dining, and immersive cultural excursions into India’s royal heritage.
The ticket prices of this train is one of the highest in the world and the train has been voted “World’s Leading Luxury Train” a number of times.
A trailblazer since 1982, this regal train transports passengers through Rajasthan’s stunning forts and palaces. The train was refurbished in 2009 and since then it has been a connoisseur’s delight. Its redesigned vintage coaches feature two fine-dining options, spa services and cabins inspired by royal decor. It has been voted the 4th best luxurious train in the world.
The train gives a rare insight into royal living of Rajasthan and as you disembark to explore the culture and heritage of this state in India you get to witness history and beauty of a bygone era.
Experience the Deccan Odyssey considered a jewel among luxury train journeys in India, as a passage of regal elegance and cultural immersion aboard wheels. Gliding through the heartlands of Maharashtra, Rajasthan and beyond, this opulent “Blue Train” offers exquisitely designed cabins, ranging from expansive Presidential Suites to boutique-level Deluxe Cabins, all equipped with personal attendants, en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi. It feels like you are travelling in a palace.
Dine in two gourmet restaurants serving regionally themed meals under attentive service, unwind with cocktails in the sophisticated bar lounge, and rejuvenate at a spa and mini-gym infused with traditional Ayurvedic treatments. Engage in leisurely evenings in the lounge with curated books, music and board games, or convene in the high-tech conference car—replete with AV facilities—for meaningful gatherings
Boarding in Bangalore, you step into a regal realm where each of the 18 coaches evokes centuries of southern dynasties, Kadamba, Hoysala, Vijayanagar, and more, with intricate woodwork and architectural motifs drawn from Mysore and Hoysala heritage. The 44 plush cabins (double and twin, plus an accessible suite) offer modern comforts—Wi-Fi, satellite TV, vanity desks, and en-suite bathrooms—framed by panoramic windows that reveal South India’s ever-changing beauty.
Culinary and leisure indulgence is ingrained in the journey. Dine in the artfully designed restaurants Nalapaka and Ruchi, inspired respectively by Hampi and Hoysala temple aesthetics and serving an elevated mix of Indian and international cuisine. Retreat to Madira, the lounge bar modeled after the Mysore Palace, or rejuvenate at Arogya, the spa-gym carriage offering Ayurvedic massages and fitness amenities—even steam facilities. There's also a conference car with a large LCD screen and Wi-Fi for executive elegance on the move.
This opulent 7-night, 8-day adventure departs from Delhi and transports you through historic gems like Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Junagarh, Somnath, Sasan Gir (with its famed lion sanctuary), Palitana, Ahmedabad, and culminates in Jaipur before returning to Delhi. With 13 royal-blue coaches inspired by Rajput kingdoms, each adorned in palatial decor, the journey blends comfort with cultural elegance: expect spacious cabins with en-suite baths, round-the-clock service from two personal attendants per saloon, two fine-dining restaurants serving Rajasthani, Gujarati, Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine, a well-stocked bar (“The Watering Hole”), a cozy lounge with TV and library, and curated cultural programs at each stop.
Embark on an evocative journey aboard the Fairy Queen Express, a heritage steam train experience that marries nostalgia with exclusivity. Powered by the world’s oldest functioning steam locomotive, built in 1855 and restored to service in 1997, the Fairy Queen offers a single lavish air-conditioned coach seating around 50–60 guests, alongside a dedicated pantry and a front-facing observation lounge with sweeping views of magnificent landscapes.
This charming two-day excursion departs from Delhi on select Saturdays between October and March, whisking travelers to historic Alwar and onward to the Sariska Tiger Reserve for an overnight immersion in royal hospitality and cultural performances. The itinerary includes scenic byways, wildlife safaris, heritage lodge stays and a seamless return by steam — an intimate and elegant escape into India’s living railway legacy.
Day 1: Arrive Delhi
Arrival (Delhi welcome & relaxation)
Day 2: Explore Delhi – Heritage & Modernity
Heritage (Old & New Delhi exploration)
Day 3: Delhi – Jaipur - A Royal Welcome
Royalty (Jaipur & Maharajas’ Express experience)
Day 4: Jaipur – Palatial Treasures
Palaces (City Palace, Rambagh Palace dining)
Day 5: Ranthambore – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra
Safari (Ranthambore & Fatehpur Sikri)
Day 6: Agra – Timeless Taj Mahal
Iconic (Taj Mahal sunrise & leisure)
Day 7: Orchha – Khajuraho
Temples (Orchha & Khajuraho exploration)
Day 8: Varanasi – The Spiritual City
Spirituality (Varanasi & Ganga Aarti)
Day 9: Delhi Arrival
Farewell (Return to Delhi & shopping)
Day 10: Depart Delhi
Departure (End of journey)
Please email me a copy of the sample itinerary
Do I need a visa to take these trains?
Yes. A valid Indian tourist visa is required to board any luxury train. Operators like the Maharajas' Express will confirm your visa and document eligibility before travel.
How do I book a journey like the Maharajas’ Express?
You can book through us by calling +97152 267 4399 or write to us at connect@flyingsquirrelholidays.com
What’s included in the price?
Fares include luxury cabin accommodation, fine dining, house beverages on-board butler service, guided cultural excursions, and entry fees.
What additional services are available?
Expect round-the-clock service, paramedics, air-ambulance backup, spa/gym facilities or lounges (depending on train), and chauffeured sightseeing transfers with personal service kits.
Can I customize my experience?
Yes. Special excursions, themed events, and unique dining requests (e.g., for dietary, cultural considerations) can be arranged in advance—some may require an additional supplement.
When should I book to secure a cabin?
Early booking is highly recommended, especially for peak season. Booking windows often open 120 days ahead
What if I have dietary restrictions or medical needs?
These can be pre-arranged. Maharajas’ Express, for example, accommodates dietary preferences including Jain, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and diabetic meals.
What travel insurance is required?
Travel insurance is mandatory for coverage of medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost belongings. Luxury services like the Maharajas’ Express also carry comprehensive insurance.
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