Maharajas Express - Rail Across India

Introduction

India - one word that conjures a million images. Tigers, snake charmers, colours, mysticism, royalty, Rolls Royces, cuisines, arts, dances, plays, music, forts, palaces, temples, monuments, people, mountains, beaches, jungles, deserts, romance, dreams... the list is truly endless.

So how does one explore it all in one lifetime ?

The answer lies on board the Maharajas' Express. Here, you will find the time and space to unravel the varied tapestry of this majestic landscape at your own pace. As you step on board, you will find yourself transported back in time to embark on the voyage of your lifetime.

Overview

Aboard the Maharajas’ Express

A train that never falls short of promising you a royal experience, the Maharajas' Express features five carriages for Deluxe Cabins, six for Junior Suites, two for Suites and one for grand Presidential Suite, accommodating 84 guests in total. Every cabin has large panoramic windows - a design marvel developed by the Integral Coach Factory, Chennai. Just so that you can savour every bit of magnificent India. All passenger Cabins come with individual temperature controls, the first of its kind in India and have state-of-the-art facilities. LCD televisions, DVD players, direct dial telephone and internet, to name a few. In-house movies and live television also keep you entertained through the royal journey. Just a small reminder for those who are used to a different power supply, the Maharajas' Express is equipped with 110/230V sockets. Every cabin also has its own electronic safe deposit box.

Dinner is served as a royal banquet for royal passengers. The Maharajas' Express has two fine dining restaurants that seat 42 persons at a time; and everyone on board dines together. Wines and beer served whilst dining come complimentary, of course.  

On board you will find o ne exotic Safari Bar with the choicest collection of house brands of wines, beer and spirits with snacks come complimentary to every passenger. There's also a lounge cum bar Raja Club with comfortable club arm-chairs. And if these features don't make you feel pampered, the Maharajas' Express also houses a high-end boutique featuring exquisite and unique creations.

 

Below you will find details of the experiences offered by the Maharajas’ Express...

 

Princely India

Mumbai - Vadodara - Udaipur - Jodhpur - Bikaner - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Agra - Delhi

A truly spectacular journey through Western India and the legendary Taj Mahal! India is a country that holds a deep fascination for the world and is home to some of the most spectacular architecture and monuments, all steeped in rich history. Join this incredible 8 - day journey of exploration of India's diversity, discovering timeless traditions and exotic locales. Discover the vibrant, bustling city of Mumbai, imperial Delhi, marvel at the immortal beauty of the Taj Mahal, come face to face with a tiger in Ranthambore, visit the Amber Fort in Jaipur and explore the shimmering Lake City of Udaipur. All of this in true-blue royalty, of course. After lunch at the Maharaja of Bikaner's Shooting and Hunting Gajner Palace, enjoy a camel caravan through the Thar Desert for a barbeque.

 

Royal India

Delhi - Agra - Ranthambore - Jaipur - Bikaner - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Vadodara - Mumbai

The Maharajas' Express offers another journey which is the 'Royal India' operating as the Princely India journey in the reverse with minor changes in the flow of activities.

Embark on an extraordinary voyage through imperial India discovering its fascinating heritage and exquisite architecture. Enjoy Champagne and pay tribute to the world's greatest monument to love, the legendary Taj Mahal. Chase the elusive tiger in Ranthambore National Park. Feel like royalty as you participate in an exhibition Elephant Polo Match followed by dinner in a unique locale. Soak up the spectacular regal heritage of Rajasthan, with its landscape of hilltop forts and palaces. Discover Champaner, the medieval capital of Gujarat. Explore the charms of the bustling city of Mumbai. This extraordinary journey will leave you with everlasting memories of an ancient land inhabited by an eclectic people, epitomizing a mesmerizing and unique mix of cultures.

 

Classical India

Delhi - Agra - Gwalior - Khajuraho - Bandhavgarh - Varanasi - Lucknow

The quintessential Maharajas' Express experience and one of our most popular journeys exploring the mystique of India! The Maharajas' Express takes you on a sojourn exploring the hidden treasures of India ! Embark on an unforgettable escapade that starts off with the capital city of Delhi. Make your way through the sacred city of Varanasi and cruise on the River Ganges to observe ancient spiritual rites. Witness the immortal beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, the sensuous moods of the temples of Khajuraho, the elegance and imperial splendour of the Nawabs in Lucknow and the wilderness of the Bandhavgarh National Park.

 

Guest Lecturers onboard the Maharajas' Express for 2010 and 2011 will include...

31st October 2010 - Classical India Journey with Dr. D.S. Chavda, an illustrious figure in the world of Wildlife Conservation.

18th December 2010 - Celestial India Journey with The Rt. Hon. Michael Portillo

20th February 2011 - Classical India Journey with Mr. Vivek Singh, CEO and Executive Chef of The Cinnamon Group and popular member of BBC's Saturday Kitchen.

19th March 2011 - Royal India Journey with Mr. Michael Buerk, world renowned broadcaster and journalist. 

Essential Information

Climate

The weather in India is hot most of the year with variations from region to region. The coolest weather lasts from around December to February, with fresh mornings and evenings and mostly sunny days. The really hot weather, when it is dry, dusty and unpleasant, is between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer anywhere between June and early October.

 

Visa

You must obtain a visa before travelling to India.  If you arrive without a visa, you will be refused entry. Passports are required to be valid for a minimum of six months.

 

Health

For up-to-date health advice for India, please consult your GP.

 

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance before travelling.  You should check any exclusions from the policy, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake whilst on holiday. Medway Travel can provide you with a quote for this – please contact a member of the Leisure team for further details.