Description
Travel on the luxury Maharaja Express, one of the world's best trains. You will see India's royal past, from Mumbai's city life to Rajasthan's forts, Ranthambore's wildlife, and the Taj Mahal. Your trip continues with a scenic toy train ride to Shimla in the Himalayas. This 14-day tour combines train travel, historic sites, and beautiful places. It's perfect for travellers who love culture, scenic views and luxury travelling.
Duration
14 Days, 13 Nights
Language
English
Price
US$10000
HIGHLIGHTS
- Travel aboard the Maharaja Express, India’s most luxurious train
- Stay in 5-star hotels & heritage properties for unmatched comfort
- Explore Udaipur’s palaces & serene Lake Pichola boat ride
- Discover the blue city of Jodhpur & Bikaner’s desert forts
- Witness the Pink City of Jaipur with Amber Fort & city markets
- Experience Ranthambhore National Park – home to wild tigers
- Marvel at Fatehpur Sikri and the Taj Mahal at sunrise
- Scenic toy train ride through the Himalayas from Kalka to Shimla
- Stroll Shimla’s Mall Road & colonial architecture
- Private guided tours with air-conditioned transfers throughout
Travel Itinerary
When you arrive at Mumbai’s airport, our representative will greet you and take you to your 5-star hotel. The day is yours to relax and prepare for the incredible journey ahead.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Mumbai.
After a relaxed breakfast, you will check out and be taken to the Taj Mahal Palace hotel. After a welcome and a briefing, you will go to the train station to board the Maharaja Express.
You will travel in a Deluxe Cabin with a private bathroom, large windows, and a personal butler. Enjoy gourmet food for dinner as the train travels through Rajasthan's scenic views.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Wake up to the serene views of Udaipur, the "City of Lakes." Visit the majestic City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and the crystal gallery. Enjoy a private boat cruise on Lake Pichola, gliding past the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir. Lunch is served at a heritage palace with live traditional music. The evening offers leisure time onboard or an optional cultural show as the train departs for Jodhpur.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Today, the train arrives in Jodhpur, the "Blue City" famed for its indigo-washed old town and the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. Take a guided tour through its ornate palaces and ramparts, offering sweeping views of the city below. Explore the bustling Sardar Market and clock tower area, rich with spices, handicrafts, and antiques. Enjoy a royal lunch at a heritage haveli before returning to the train. Savour an exclusive dining dinner at a private venue before the train continues to Bikaner.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express
Arrive in the desert city of Bikaner. Here, you will explore the impressive Junagarh Fort, a beautiful structure known for its intricate stonework. Later, drive to the Thar Desert. Take a sunset camel-cart ride on the sand dunes. Then, enjoy a barbecue dinner under the stars with traditional folk music and dance. This magical desert experience perfectly captures Rajasthan’s nomadic charm.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
The train arrives in Jaipur, the "Pink City." Jaipur’s highlights include the iconic Amber Fort, where you’ll ascend the ramparts in royal style. Visit the City Palace Museum and Jantar Mantar. Then, explore the colourful markets for textiles and jewellery. Lunch is served at a heritage hotel, followed by leisure time or optional spa experiences. Dinner onboard as the train heads towards Ranthambhore.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Today is a day of adventure and history. The train makes an early stop for a thrilling morning safari in Ranthambore National Park, where you may spot the elusive Bengal tiger. After breakfast, the train continues to the UNESCO site of Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital. Explore its ornate courtyards, palaces, and mosques. Return to the train for a sumptuous dinner as you make your way to Agra.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express
Greet the sunrise at the Taj Mahal, a once-in-a-lifetime sight as the white marble glows in golden light. Visit Agra Fort before returning to the train for a final onboard brunch. Disembark in Delhi, where you’ll be transferred to a luxury 5 star hotel for an overnight stay.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Delhi.
After breakfast, you will be taken to the airport for a short flight to Chandigarh. This city was designed by Le Corbusier and is the gateway to the Himalayas.
Upon arrival, you will be taken to your hotel to relax and prepare for the scenic mountain journey ahead.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Chandigarh.
Today is a highlight of your tour. You will drive to Kalka station and board the historic Himalayan Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic railway gives you breathtaking views of the mountains. It winds through more than 100 tunnels to reach Shimla. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your heritage hotel.
The evening is yours to stroll along the famous Mall Road at your leisure.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Shimla.
Explore Shimla's old buildings like the Viceregal Lodge and Christ Church. Visit Jakhoo Temple for panoramic mountain views. Take a guided heritage walk through old Shimla or enjoy afternoon tea at a hilltop cafe. Evening is free for shopping or relaxing in your hotel’s gardens. The cool mountain air and historic architecture offer a perfect escape.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Shimla.
Enjoy a final breakfast with a view before beginning your journey back.
You will drive back to Chandigarh for your flight to Delhi. On arrival, transfer to your luxury hotel. The rest of the day is free for last-minute shopping at Khan Market or exploring Lodhi Gardens.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Delhi.
Explore Delhi’s two different sides. You’ll see the busy markets and Jama Masjid of Old Delhi, as well as the wide roads, India Gate, and Humayun’s Tomb in New Delhi. A rickshaw ride through Old Delhi adds a local touch.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Delhi.
After breakfast, transfer to the Delhi airport for your flight. You will leave with great memories of your trip to India.
INCLUDED
- Maharaja Express journey in a Deluxe Cabin (upgrade options: Junior Suite, Suite, or Presidential Suite on request) with all meals, soft drinks, house wines, and selected spirits
- Scenic Shimla Toy Train ride in a First-Class Carriage on the UNESCO heritage route
- 5★ heritage & luxury hotels (starting category: Deluxe Room) in Delhi, Shimla, and Udaipur — upgrades available to suites or palace view rooms
- Private guided sightseeing with English-speaking expert guides in all destinations
- All airport/train transfers in chauffeur-driven luxury air-conditioned vehicles
- Exclusive cultural experiences such as folk dance evenings, heritage walks, and high-tea at a palace
- Monument & museum entry fees as per itinerary
- Onboard entertainment & activities during the Maharaja Express journey
- Daily breakfast at hotels and all meals on the train
- Bottled mineral water and refreshments during transfers and sightseeing
- Porterage service at hotels, stations, and during transfers
- Dedicated tour manager assistance throughout the trip
- Domestic Air fares included in the tour prices
EXCLUDED
- International airfare to / from India
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, and spa treatments not specified
- Alcoholic beverages beyond the inclusions on Maharaja Express
- Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Camera/video fees at monuments (if applicable)
- Tips and gratuities for train/hotel staff and guides (at guest’s discretion)
- Any meals, drinks, or services not specifically mentioned in “Inclusions”
- Itinerary, sightseeing, timings and scheduled destinations may change without prior notice due to local/ weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour is all-inclusive. It covers your 5 star hotel stays, all meals, luxury train travel, domestic flights, and toy train tickets. Guided tours, monument entry fees, and all transportation are also included.
The Maharaja Express is India’s most awarded luxury train, often compared to the Orient Express. The train features large cabins with private bathrooms, a bar, and fine dining. It also provides a personal attendant and tours at each stop.
Yes, the heritage toy train journey from Kalka to Shimla is included. This historic train gives you great views of the Himalayas. It passes through tunnels and small hill stations along the way.
Yes. The Kalka-Shimla toy train is a UNESCO site. It offers great views of the mountains, tunnels, and small hill stations.
The best time is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant across Rajasthan, Delhi, and Himachal Pradesh. Avoid monsoon season (July–September) for better sightseeing conditions.
All meals are included during the Maharaja Express journey. For hotel stays before and after the train trip, breakfast is provided, with optional lunch and dinner available.
Yes, the tour can be customized. We can add extra nights in Delhi, Mumbai, or Shimla. We can also add special activities like cooking classes, cultural shows, or private city walks.
The Heritage of India journey starts from USD 6,500 per person. This covers your luxury rooms, meals, tours, all transportation, and the toy train ride. Costs vary by cabin type and travel season.
The food is an important part of the journey. You get gourmet meals served in two fine-dining restaurants. The menu includes a mix of delicious Indian and international food. All your meals are included.
Guests are advised to carry one medium-sized suitcase per person, along with a handbag. There is enough space in the cabins to store your luggage.
While there is no strict dress code, smart casuals are recommended for daytime tours. For dinner and evenings on the train, most guests wear semi-formal or smart casual attire.
All tips for the train staff, guides, and drivers are included in your tour price. You do not need to pay extra tips during your trip.
Wi-Fi is available in the cabins and public areas of the train. Mobile network service may be unreliable in certain remote areas.
Maharaja Express was beyond our dreams! – From the moment we stepped onboard, the service, comfort, and attention to detail made us feel like royalty. Each stop revealed India’s beauty – from the Taj Mahal at sunrise to Jaipur’s palaces. The Shimla Toy Train ride was a magical highlight, winding through hills and villages with breathtaking views. This journ...
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