Overview
The Maharajas’ Express was custom-built to be the most luxurious train in India, offering state-of-the-art facilities and amenities.
All cabins have large windows, LCD televisions, wi-fi access, individual temperature control and a full en-suite bathroom. There is one Presidential Suite which comprises a full train car—the largest suite available on any train in the world.
The Maharajas’ Express’ two dining cars are elegantly decorated and serve a choice of multi-course Indian and Continental cuisine. Two lounge cars provide cool drinks and comfortable seating. The train is 22 cars long, taking a maximum of 84 passengers. The inaugural journey was in March, 2010.
Read an in-depth review of the Maharajas’ Express by Society VP Angela Walker on our blog, Track 25.
Accommodations
The Maharajas’ Express train offers four types of accommodation: Deluxe Cabin, Junior Suite, Suite and Presidential Suite. All cabins feature large picture windows, LCD televisions, DVD players, telephone, digital climate control and wireless internet access (though the connection is spotty). All have full en-suite bathroom (sink, shower, toilet) and a full-time butler to tend to your every need. Guests booked in the Suite or Presidential Suite have private car and guide at every stop. Guests in the Deluxe Cabin or Junior Suite have group touring.
Deluxe Cabin
The Deluxe Cabin is 112 square feet and has either one double bed or two twin beds (please advise preference on booking), a small writing desk and stool, as well as a standard en-suite bathroom.
Junior Suite
The Junior Suite is 150 square feet and also comes with either double or twin beds, but also features a table and two chairs, as well as two windows for viewing the passing scenery. The additional window and sitting area make this cabin definitely worth the upgrade from Deluxe.
Suite
The train offers two Suites, each of which measures 220 square feet. Each Suite has a double bed and larger seating area separate from the bedroom, two windows and a larger bathroom, with shower and bathtub.
Presidential Suite
For the full royal treatment, book the Presidential Suite — the largest train accommodation in the world. Book this, and you will have an entire train car (448 sq. ft) to yourself. There are two bedrooms (1 with double bed and 1 with twin beds), two bathrooms (the master includes a bathtub), and a large seating area with couch, table and chairs and desk. You will have your own butler. The ceiling of the master bedroom features LED lights, which create a starry illusion at night.
Dining
The Rang Mahal (Color Palace) and Mayur Mahal (Peacock Palace) are the two lovely dining cars. Both seat 42 passengers and offer the same multi-course menu with the choice of either Indian or continental cuisine, as well as a vegetarian option. The Rang Mahal has an elegantly hand-painted ceiling, while the Mayur Mahal ceiling is composed of small mirrored tiles. All tableware is emblazoned with the elegant crowned “M.”
Lounges
The Rajah Club is the train’s center, where guests are welcomed back from excursions with cool drinks. There are comfy chairs and tables, and the bartender is always on duty. (House wine, beer and spirits are included in the tour cost; top shelf liquors and full wine list are available at additional cost.) There is also a Safari Bar with lounge area; newspapers and games are available. There is also an on-board gift shop selling silk scarves, pillows, books, neckties and more.
IRT Insights
Another unique feature of the train is the water filtration system, which makes the water safe for drinking (or brushing one’s teeth).
Some tours in the Maharajas’ Express itineraries are listed as “optional” and will be at additional cost.