Description
Take a luxury journey on the Maharaja Express, followed by a relaxing trip to Kerala. This 14-day tour shows you both India's royal history and its natural beauty. First, you will visit the Taj Mahal and palaces in Rajasthan. Then, you will enjoy a houseboat cruise, a trip to Periyar's spice plantations, and a beach stay at Marari. A perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation designed for discerning travelers worldwide.
Duration
14 Days, 13 Nights
Language
English
Price
US$10000
HIGHLIGHTS
- Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit
- Luxury Maharaja Express Ride
- Royal Palaces of Jaipur
- Wildlife Safari in Ranthambore
- Desert Forts & Jodhpur Blues
- Romantic Udaipur Lake Cruise
- Kochi Fort & Spice Trails
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Trek
- Private Alleppey Houseboat Stay
- Marari Beachside Relaxation
Travel Itinerary
Arrive in India’s bustling capital and transfer to your luxury 5-star hotel.
You can relax after your flight or enjoy the evening in Delhi's markets and historic areas.
Overnight in comfort before your royal train adventure begins.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in New Delhi.
After breakfast, transfer to Delhi railway station where the Maharaja Express awaits. Step aboard India’s most luxurious train, greeted by a red-carpet welcome, champagne, and live music. Settle into your elegant cabin and begin your journey in regal style as the train rolls toward Agra.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Early morning visit to the breathtaking Taj Mahal at sunrise, a true wonder of the world. Later, continue to Agra Fort, an architectural masterpiece.
In the afternoon, the train takes you to Ranthambore National Park for a thrilling safari. You might see tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. Return to the train for an elegant dinner.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Today explore Jaipur’s Amber Fort, with its grand courtyards and intricate palaces. Enjoy a guided city tour covering the City Palace and Jantar Mantar observatory. A royal-style elephant or jeep ride up to the fort adds to the experience. In the evening, delight in a cultural show and traditional Rajasthani dinner.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Awaken to the desert landscapes of Bikaner. Visit Junagarh Fort, an imposing stronghold with ornate interiors. Experience a camel-cart ride through the sand dunes followed by a sundowner with folk dances. Return to the Maharaja Express for a lavish dinner as the train continues westward.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Arrive in Jodhpur, famed for its blue-painted houses and mighty Mehrangarh Fort. Explore its ramparts, palaces, and royal museum. Wander through vibrant local bazaars before enjoying a special dining experience in a heritage venue. Overnight onboard the train with top-class hospitality.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
Disembark in Udaipur, the city of lakes. Take a boat ride across shimmering Lake Pichola, passing Jag Mandir and the Lake Palace. Visit the exquisite City Palace, with its mirrored halls and royal treasures. Lunch at a luxury hotel overlooking the lake completes the day before reboarding the train.
Overnight on the Maharaja Express.
The train journey concludes in Mumbai. After breakfast onboard, disembark with fond memories of India’s royal rail journey.
Take a short tour of Mumbai, seeing landmarks like the Gateway of India. Afterward, you will go to your hotel for the night.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Mumbai.
Fly to Kochi, gateway to Kerala. On arrival, enjoy a guided city tour covering Fort Kochi’s colonial quarters, Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and the Dutch Palace. Witness a Kathakali dance performance in the evening before relaxing at your boutique hotel.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in Kochi.
Drive to Periyar, nestled in the Western Ghats. Visit a spice plantation to see cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon cultivation. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, where elephants and birdlife gather at the water’s edge. Overnight stay in a luxury jungle lodge.
Overnight stay at a 5-star hotel / resort in Periyar.
Descend to the backwaters of Alleppey and board your private Kerala houseboat.
Cruise along canals lined with palm trees and past traditional villages. You'll enjoy freshly prepared local food onboard.
This slow journey through the waterways offers a peaceful contrast to your Maharaja Express adventure.
Overnight stay at a luxury houseboat in Alleppey
After breakfast, you'll leave your houseboat and go to Marari Beach Resort. Spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying the sun, walking on the beach, or sitting by the pool. You can also book an Ayurvedic spa treatment.
Overnight stay at a 5-star luxury resort in Mararikulam.
A full day to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy yoga sessions, explore a nearby fishing village, or simply unwind with the sound of the Arabian Sea in the background. This day allows you to slow down and absorb Kerala’s coastal charm at your own pace.
Overnight stay at a 5-star luxury resort in Mararikulam.
After breakfast, transfer to Kochi airport for your international flight.
You'll leave with incredible memories of an epic journey from the palaces of Rajasthan to the tranquil beaches of Kerala.
This section provides essential information to help you prepare for your journey to India.
All foreign nationals require a visa to enter India. We recommend applying for an e-Visa online, which is a simple process. Please ensure you apply well in advance of your departure date.
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and major shops. We recommend carrying some cash for small purchases and local markets.
It's a good idea to consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations before your trip. Throughout the tour, we advise drinking only bottled water, which is provided at all hotels and on the train.
Pack light, comfortable, and breathable clothing for your tour through Rajasthan and Kerala. Evenings on the Maharaja Express and at some hotels are more formal, so a few smart-casual or semi-formal outfits are recommended. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
INCLUDED
- 7 nights onboard Maharaja Express (Deluxe Cabin with upgrade options to Junior Suite, Suite, or Presidential Suite)
- 6 nights in 5-star/boutique resorts in Kerala (Kochi, Periyar, Alleppey houseboat, Marari Beach)
- All meals onboard Maharaja Express (fine-dining restaurants + house wines/beer)
- Daily breakfast in Kerala resorts / hotels
- All meals on Alleppey private houseboat
- Airport transfers and assistance in Delhi, Mumbai, and Kochi
- Luxury coach excursions at train stops
- Domestic flight fare from Mumbai to Kochi
- Chauffeur-driven private car in Kerala
- Guided tours with English-speaking experts in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Kerala
- Game safari at Ranthambore National Park
- Cultural performances, folk dances, and palace dinners as per itinerary
- Private boat cruise on Lake Pichola, Udaipur
- Backwater cruise & stay in traditional Kerala houseboat
- Personal butler onboard Maharaja Express
- Entrance fees at monuments and national parks
- 24/7 assistance throughout the journey
EXCLUDED
- International flights to / from India
- Visa fees, travel insurance & vaccinations
- Optional excursions not mentioned in itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages (outside house wines / beer on Maharaja Express)
- Gratuities, personal expenses & laundry
- Camera/video charges at monuments
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in inclusions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Maharaja Express offers world-class luxury cabins, fine dining, and curated excursions. It is consistently ranked among the world’s best luxury trains and is often compared to Europe’s Orient Express.
You will stay in a Deluxe Cabin on the Maharaja Express. In Kerala, you'll stay in 5-star hotels and boutique resorts, chosen for comfort and authenticity.
The best season is October to April, when weather is cooler in North India and perfect for Kerala’s beaches and backwaters.
Yes, all meals on the train and houseboat are included, along with guided tours, safaris, cultural shows, and transfers. In Kerala, most meals are included, with free evenings to explore local dining.
No, this plan combines the Indian Splendour route with Kerala, but if desired, a Shimla Toy Train ride can be arranged as an additional extension.
The Maharaja Express is a grand, fast-paced tour of royal history and landmarks. The trip to Kerala provides a calm change of pace, with a focus on natural beauty and local village life.
You are advised to carry one medium-sized suitcase per person, which can be stored easily in your cabin on the train.
Smart casual clothing is recommended for daytime touring and onboard meals. For evenings on the train, most guests wear semi-formal or elegant attire.
Wi-Fi is available in your cabin and the public areas of the train. Wi-Fi is also provided at all your hotels in Kerala.
Tours are handled in two different ways. During the Maharaja Express journey, your tours are with a small group of other guests. In Kerala, your guided tours and transportation will be private, just for you
The personal butler service is a key feature of your luxury train journey. Your butler is available 24/7 to help with your luggage, serve your meals, and keep your cabin comfortable
Yes. Your trip includes unique cultural experiences such as a barbecue in the desert, a Kathakali dance show, and visits to local markets. These moments allow for a deeper connection with India's vibrant culture.
Your safety is our top priority. The Maharaja Express train has modern security. Our team also manages all your hotels and transportation to ensure your safety.