India Luxury Train Tours Reviews – Explore the world of luxury train travel in India with comprehensive reviews, ratings, and expectations. From the royal opulence of the Maharajas’ Express to the heritage elegance of Palace on Wheels and the cultural richness of the Deccan Odyssey, we’ve covered it all. Learn about onboard facilities, route highlights, cuisine, and real traveler experiences that go beyond brochures. Whether you’re a first-timer or planning a second royal journey, our guide reveals what truly sets each train apart. Discover hidden costs, booking tips, and who each train is best suited for—honeymooners, history buffs, or international explorers. This all-in-one review blog helps you plan the perfect rail adventure through India’s majestic landscapes.
Top Luxury Trains in India: Reviews & Ratings
Here’s a curated comparison by Xplro of India’s most iconic luxury trains:
| Train Name | Rating (Xplro.com) | Route Highlights | Price Range (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maharajas’ Express | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Varanasi | ₹4,06,000 – ₹20,72,000 |
| Palace on Wheels | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Delhi, Rajasthan, Agra | ₹7,71,500+ |
| Deccan Odyssey | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Mumbai, Goa, Ajanta, Nashik | ₹6,91,000+ |
| Golden Chariot | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu | ₹1,96,500 – ₹3,93,000 |
| Royal Rajasthan Wheels | ⭐⭐⭐ | Rajasthan, Khajuraho, Varanasi | ₹3,43,000 – ₹9,30,000 |
Why Luxury Train Travel?
- Immersive exploration: Visit iconic destinations with guided off-train excursions.
- Royal hospitality: Personalized service, gourmet meals, and plush interiors.
- All-inclusive packages: Meals, tours, entertainment, and transfers included.
- Heritage meets comfort: Travel like royalty through India’s cultural heartlands.
Best Time to Travel by Train:
| Train Name | Operational Season | Best Months to Travel | Climate Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maharajas’ Express | October – April | November – March | Pleasant weather, ideal for Rajasthan & North India |
| Palace on Wheels | September – April | October – February | Cooler temperatures, great for desert excursions |
| Deccan Odyssey | October – April | December – February | Comfortable for Maharashtra & coastal stops |
| Golden Chariot | October – March | January – March | Dry season in South India, ideal for temple tours |
| Royal Rajasthan Wheels | October – March | November – February | Best for spiritual and heritage destinations |
Detailed Reviews of India’s Top Luxury Trains
1. Maharajas’ Express – The Crown Jewel of Indian Railways
Types: Deluxe, Junior Suite, Suite, Presidential Suite
Often hailed as the most luxurious train in India, the Maharajas’ Express is a regal experience on rails. With its opulent suites, fine dining, and curated excursions, it offers travelers a taste of royal India across destinations like Udaipur, Jaipur, and Varanasi. The Presidential Suite alone spans an entire carriage, making it a favorite among high-end travelers seeking exclusivity and grandeur.
Highlights:
- Presidential Suite spans an entire carriage with two bedrooms and private lounge.
- Onboard spa, gym, boutique, and two fine-dining restaurants.
- Exclusive off-board excursions with private guides for suite guests.
- Voted “World’s Leading Luxury Train” multiple times.
Popular Itinerary: Heritage of India – Mumbai → Udaipur → Jodhpur → Bikaner → Jaipur → Ranthambore → Agra → Delhi
2. Palace on Wheels – India’s First Luxury Train
Operator: Rajasthan Tourism & Indian Railways Cabin
India’s first luxury train, Palace on Wheels, is steeped in history and elegance. Inspired by the royal coaches of Rajputana kings, its interiors feature rich tapestries, antique furnishings, and traditional artwork. The journey through Rajasthan includes tiger safaris, fort tours, and cultural performances, all wrapped in warm hospitality and gourmet thali-style meals.
Highlights:
- Inspired by royal carriages of Rajputana and Gujarat.
- Two restaurants, a bar lounge, spa, and gym onboard.
- Super Deluxe cabins offer private guides and transport.
- Cuisine served thali-style with regional specialties.
3. Deccan Odyssey – Maharashtra’s Regal Ride
Operator: Maharashtra Tourism & IRCTC Cabin
The Deccan Odyssey blends modern luxury with heritage exploration, focusing on Maharashtra and western India. Its sleek blue exterior hides lavish cabins, a spa, and a conference room, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Stops include the Ajanta and Ellora caves, Nashik vineyards, and Goa’s beaches, offering a diverse cultural palette.
Highlights:
- Onboard spa, salon, conference room, and multi-cuisine restaurants.
- Routes include Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Nashik vineyards, and Goa beaches.
- Presidential Suite includes private lounge and butler service.
Popular Itinerary: Maharashtra Splendor – Mumbai → Nashik → Ellora → Ajanta → Kolhapur → Goa → Sindhudurg → Mumbai
4. Golden Chariot – Southern India’s Gem
Operator: Karnataka State Tourism & IRCTC Cabin
Southern India’s pride, the Golden Chariot, showcases the architectural brilliance of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. With interiors inspired by Mysore palaces and Hoysala temples, it’s a visual treat. Guests enjoy Ayurvedic spa treatments, temple tours, and beachside excursions, all while basking in the train’s warm, royal ambiance.
Highlights:
- Interiors inspired by Mysore palaces and Hoysala architecture.
- Ayurvedic spa, fine-dining restaurants, and lounge bar onboard.
- Breakfast in bed and curated cultural performances.
Popular Itinerary: Jewels of South – Bengaluru → Mysore → Mahabalipuram → Chettinad → Cochin → Bengaluru
5. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels – A Regal Extension
Operator: Rajasthan Tourism Cabin
An elegant extension of the Palace on Wheels, this train dives deeper into Rajasthan’s regal past while adding spiritual stops like Khajuraho and Varanasi. Its cabins are themed after royal palaces, and the onboard experience includes gourmet dining, cultural shows, and guided tours that blend history with luxury.
Highlights:
- Cabins themed after royal palaces.
- Spa, bar, and gourmet dining onboard.
- Covers both Rajasthan and spiritual destinations like Varanasi.
Comparison Table: Luxury Train Features
| Train Name | Route Region | Spa | Private Guide | Presidential Suite | Cultural Shows |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maharajas’ Express | Pan-India | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Palace on Wheels | Rajasthan | ✅ | ✅ (Super Deluxe) | ❌ | ✅ |
| Deccan Odyssey | Maharashtra & West | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Golden Chariot | South India | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Royal Rajasthan Wheels | Rajasthan & East | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Booking Tips from Xplro.com
- Book early: Especially for peak season (Oct–Mar).
- Verify official websites: Avoid third-party booking scams.
- Check inclusions: Meals, excursions, and transfers are usually covered.
- Look for seasonal offers: Some trains offer discounts for early bookings.
Real Traveler India Luxury Train Tours Reviews
“The Maharajas’ Express was like stepping into a royal fantasy. The staff knew our names, and the excursions felt private and curated.” — Ritika Sharma, Delhi
“Palace on Wheels gave us a taste of Rajasthan’s grandeur. The thali dinners and tiger safari were unforgettable.” — James & Linda, UK
“Golden Chariot’s southern route was a cultural feast. From temple towns to beach stops, it was a journey we’ll never forget.” — Ananya Rao, Bengaluru
Conclusion
Luxury train travel in India isn’t just about getting from one destination to another—it’s an immersive journey through royal heritage, curated comfort, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re gliding past Rajasthan’s golden dunes or exploring temple towns in Tamil Nadu, each train offers a distinct blend of elegance and cultural depth.
At Xplro.com, we see these journeys as more than vacations—they’re immersive narratives etched in luxury, where every mile tells a story. From the opulent cabins of the Maharajas’ Express to the heritage-rich routes of the Palace on Wheels, these trains transform travel into a regal experience. If you’re seeking a truly extraordinary adventure, step aboard one of India’s majestic luxury trains. These tracks don’t just connect cities—they connect eras, emotions, and unforgettable memories.
FAQs
1. What are the top luxury trains in India?
- India’s most renowned luxury trains include the Maharajas’ Express, Palace on Wheels, Deccan Odyssey, Golden Chariot, and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels—each offering unique routes and royal experiences.
2. How much does luxury train travel cost in India?
- Prices range from ₹1.9 lakh to ₹20 lakh per person, depending on the train, cabin type, and itinerary length. Maharajas’ Express is the most premium option.
3. What’s included in the ticket price?
- Most packages cover accommodation, meals, guided excursions, entrance fees, and onboard entertainment. Laundry, drinks, and personal expenses are usually extra.
4. How long are the journeys?
- Trips typically last 4 to 8 days, with some trains offering shorter itineraries like the Treasures of India (3 nights) on Maharajas’ Express.
5. Can I book tickets online?
- Yes, bookings can be made via official train websites or authorized travel portals. Advance booking is recommended, especially for peak season.
6. Are luxury trains suitable for families?
- Absolutely. Trains like Deccan Odyssey and Maharajas’ Express offer spacious suites and family-friendly excursions.
7. Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
- Yes, most luxury trains offer limited Wi-Fi, though connectivity may vary in remote regions.
8. Are vegetarian or special meals available?
- Yes, dietary preferences including vegetarian, Jain, and gluten-free meals are accommodated with prior notice.
9. What is the best time to travel?
- The ideal season is October to March, when the weather is pleasant across most routes.
10. Are the trains wheelchair accessible?
- Accessibility is limited. Maharajas’ Express and Golden Chariot offer some provisions—check with operators before booking.
11. Do I need travel insurance?
- Yes, it’s recommended to carry comprehensive travel insurance covering health, luggage, and cancellations.
12. Can I customize my itinerary?
- Most trains have fixed routes, but some offer shorter journeys or private excursions for suite guests.
13. Is there a dress code onboard?
- Smart casuals are fine during the day. Evening attire like blazers or dresses is encouraged for formal dinners.
14. Can I shop onboard?
- Yes, trains like Maharajas’ Express and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels have boutiques selling souvenirs and handicrafts.
15. Are luxury trains in India worth it?
- If you value comfort, curated experiences, and cultural immersion, luxury trains offer a once-in-a-lifetime journey through India’s heritage.