Train Travel in India

Travelling through India is an exciting journey filled with a rich history, fascinating culture and friendly people at every turn. Of course you can travel via car or plane to different destinations and stay in hotels and resorts; however, in our opinion, train travel is a must. Whether it be on a luxury train like the opulent Maharaja Express or a local train, train travel in India is a unique experience.

Luxury Train Travel

There are a few options for luxury train travel in India as well as several different routes. Most of India’s luxury train travel operates in North India, however there are options in South India as well. North India luxury trains visit the main cities: Jaipur, Agra, Delhi as well as other cities depending on the duration of your trip. Luxury train travel allows you to travel long distances across India with all the comforts of a hotel room.

Here’s a list of our favourite luxury trains:

Maharaja Express

The most luxurious of India’s luxury trains, the Maharaja Express offers world-class service, food and amenities. The train features exquisitely designed interiors with two restaurants as well as two bars with lounge areas.

Beautifully appointed cabins offer a comfortable way to travel through India; ranging from deluxe cabins to the presidential suite (which comprises of its own carriage).

The Maharaja express offers a range of different itineraries ranging from 4 to 8 days in duration. Each route provides a wide range of daily excursions at each stop. These stops cover all opportunities to see and experience of what India has on offer; from dawn visits to the Taj Mahal as well as exciting game drives in the Ranthambore National Park tracking the elusive tiger to special dinners at exclusive dining venues.

Palace on Wheels

Another luxury train that traverses north India is the Palace on Wheels. This famous luxury train boasts an understated luxury that blends with the majestic charm and beauty showcased in the state of Rajasthan.

Accommodation on board comprises of two options, deluxe and super deluxe cabins. Each cabin features en-suite bathrooms air-conditioning, a writing desk and a safe.  8 days and 7 nights aboard this train is a journey to remember. Departing from Delhi and travelling through Rajasthan, the train stops at cities including Jaipur, Udaipur, and Agra. In addition to breathtaking palaces like Hawa Mahal and the Taj, you also venture into Ranthambore National Park in search of the Tiger.

Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey offers a range of 8-day routes journeying across North India and a new 5-day itinerary that travels through Goa. Our favourite itinerary is the “Indian Odyssey”.  Highlights  on the Odyssey include Ranthambore National Park, the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, the gorgeous lakes of Udaipur, the Taj Mahal and the Ellora Caves near Mumbai.

All the cabins of Deccan Odyssey are fully equipped with facilities to deliver absolute comfort during your journey. These include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and en-suite bathrooms.

To enhance your stay there is a spa carriage offering massage therapy, a sauna and a beauty parlour providing various treatments including Ayurvedic treatments. Furthermore, the train also features a small gym.

The Golden Chariot

Southern India’s only Luxury train, the Golden Chariot traverses the beautiful south.  You can expect an experience rich with history and culture.

The train offers luxuriously appointed cabins that features air conditioning,  a small wardrobe, television and a private bathroom with luxe toiletries. Sleeping options include two single beds, a double bed with a special cabin for those with a physical disability.

The train also offers traditional Ayurvedic massage treatments, as well as a fully equipped gym on board. In addition, there are two dinning carts offering various options of vegetarian and non-vegetarian culinary delights.  The “Pride of the South” train journey takes you through Southwest India across Mysore, Goa,  Bangalore and so many more beautiful cities.

Train Travel between cities

If you’re looking for a quick and inexpensive way to travel between cities in India, check out standard train travel in India. India has many trains, with varying options, from the most basic of carriages offering standing and seated room to sleeper carriages with 6 beds in each through to the  more private 2-4 bed carriages. In addition to sleeper carriages, there are also assigned seat trains that offer reclining seats for long journeys. Depending on your budget and desired level of comfort and privacy, there are a range of options available.

To conclude…

Train travel through India is a journey like no other.  Meet incredible people, experience a rich history and culture. You can see all of this by car, by foot or plane but in our opinion, train travel is unparalleled. With your private cabin and bathroom, you will have hotel amenities wherever you go. All of India’s luxury trains offer impeccable service, world-class food, delivering an unforgettable experience.

References: Thank you Deccan OdysseyTrip SavvyNew York TimesAudley Travel and Golden Chariot Train

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