BlogPicture waking in a velvet-curtained cabin as a Rajasthan sunrise slides past your window. Then the practical worries arrive. Which luxury train in India is right for you? When do they run? How do you book from Europe?
Quick answer: Palace on Wheels is a 7-night journey from Delhi through Rajasthan and Agra. Maharajas’ Express runs four routes of 3 to 6 nights. Both operate mainly between October and April, so plan early.
Robert Louis Stevenson put it simply: “The great affair is to move.” — Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes, 1879
Why Choose a Luxury Train in India?
India is big, and a first trip can mean long road transfers and repeated packing. A luxury train works like a moving hotel: you sleep on board while the train carries you to the next city, so every morning begins somewhere new. Many guests also add luxury India tour packages before or after the train.
What Is Palace on Wheels?
This 7-night, 8-day Palace on Wheels itinerary starts in Delhi and visits Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra before returning to Delhi. Departures run weekly in season, and the route ends with the Taj Mahal.
What Is the Maharajas’ Express?
The Maharajas’ Express is operated by IRCTC and offers four Maharajas’ Express routes: Heritage of India, Indian Panorama and Indian Splendour (each 6 nights), plus Treasures of India, a 3-night loop through Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore and Jaipur.
6 Tips Before You Book
- Book early, because departures are scheduled and the season is short.
- Check dates for October to April, the main running months.
- Ask for a current quote, since fares vary by route and cabin.
- Match the route to your interests: forts, wildlife, Varanasi or a short Golden Triangle taster.
- Arrive in Delhi a day early to rest before boarding.
- Add hotel nights before or after the train for a slower pace.
Luxury Train Tours for Travellers from Spain, the Netherlands and Switzerland
From Spain
Spanish travellers comparing a Palace on Wheels Tour from Spain with a Maharajas Express India Tour from Spain can build either around Delhi hotels. Luxury India Holiday Packages from Madrid and India Royal Train Travel Packages Spain usually combine the train with private touring.
From the Netherlands
A Palace on Wheels India Tour from Amsterdam suits guests who love Rajasthan’s palaces. If you prefer Agra, Ranthambore and Khajuraho, ask about Maharajas Express Booking from Netherlands. Luxury India Travel Packages from Netherlands and an India Royal Train Holiday from Amsterdam can include both.
From Switzerland
Swiss travellers know how good a scenic rail journey feels. Luxury Train Travel in India from Switzerland offers a different rhythm, whether you choose a Palace on Wheels Holiday Package Switzerland or a Maharajas Express Luxury Tour from Zurich. India Royal Heritage Train Tours Switzerland often add a few hotel nights in Delhi.
Every route stops in Agra, so a Taj Mahal Tour from UK or any European city can sit inside the journey. Online Tour Company can plan the land portion around your dates, such as the Golden Triangle Tour (6 Nights/7 Days), listed at $521 per person without train fares, or the Classic India Tour. Browse India destinations for more ideas.
Ready to Plan Your Royal Rail Journey?
Tell Online Tour Company your country, dates and group size through our contact page, and we will shape a tailor-made India itinerary around your train.
Luxury Train FAQs
Which is better, Palace on Wheels or Maharajas’ Express?
Palace on Wheels focuses on Rajasthan, while Maharajas’ Express offers four routes. Online Tour Company can help you compare them against your interests.
When do luxury trains run in India?
Mainly October to April, with departure dates set each season. Online Tour Company suggests booking early.
How long is each journey?
Palace on Wheels takes 7 nights. Maharajas’ Express takes 3 or 6 nights, depending on the route.
How do I book a luxury train from Europe?
Bookings go through the operator or an authorised agent. Online Tour Company can help plan flights, Delhi hotels and extra days around your departure.
Can Online Tour Company add extra days before or after the train?
Yes. Online Tour Company arranges tailor-made itineraries, including Agra, Jaipur and Varanasi, for travellers from Europe and Latin America. See our FAQ page.
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