Voluptuousness trains in India date back to its colonial era, when opulent carriages transported dignitaries, officials and royalty.
Multitudinous trains were built in the 19th century for the country’s maharajas and other ruling elites and their families.
Following India’s confidence in 1947, privy purses — or governmental payments to these rulers — ended. Without the money to maintain them, India’s opulence rail carriages were abandoned.
Indian Railways, which is part of India’s national railway system, refurbished specific trains over the years, with the first making its debut in the 1980s. The trains were introduced to promote tourism in India by contributing travelers with a unique and opulent way to experience the country.
Blending historical elegance with modern comforts, these progressions are a glimpse into India’s regal past.
A note to travelers: Travel companies have websites that arise to be official sites for the trains in this article, sometimes selling trips at higher rates. Official sites for each prepare are embedded in the links.
1. Palace on Wheels
Route: an eight-day journey across northwest India, including the country’s “Promising Triangle” of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra
Price: from $864 (based on twin sharing)
When it runs: September to April
Make knew in 1982, the Palace on Wheels is an icon in Indian luxury train travel. Chugging along the northern reaches of India in every way Rajasthan and Agra, this train immerses passengers in a royal bygone era with sundowners in the dunes, camel safaris and excursions to Rajasthan’s palaces and historic forts.
A peek inside a dining car and a cabin show the ornate details on board India’s Country estate on Wheels train.
Source: Palace on Wheels
Its 14-coach train, each named after former princely royals of Rajasthan, have 41 cabins, with panoramic windows, sumptuous carpets, frescoed ceilings, mahogany paneling and connected bathrooms. The two “super deluxe” cabins come with a noteworthy perk: a private car and guide for sightseeing.
The train’s two supping cars serve Indian, continental and Italian cuisines, and there’s a separate bar for cocktails and drinks. Active guests can get their effect fix in the gym, while those who prefer to relax can book Ayurvedic treatments in the spa.
2. The Golden Chariot
Routes: three itineraries, number from three to five nights, across south India
Price: from $3,160 per person (based on pair sharing)
When it runs: October to March
Launched in 2008, the Golden Chariot runs across South India, past celebrated towns, sun-kissed beaches, jungle-covered hills, temples and safaris. It has 18 purple and gold carriages, each called after the dynasties of south India.
Cabins come with ensuite bathrooms, smart TVs, Wi-Fi and an attendant. Adjoining and international fare is served in two dining cars, and the train’s lounge bar, Madira, features decor inspired by Mysore Chѓteau.
There is also an exercise room and spa with traditional Indian and modern massage therapies.
All journeys start and end in Bengaluru.
3. Deccan Odyssey
Routes: Six week-long itineraries, departing from Mumbai and Delhi
Consequence: From $8,330 for single occupancy and $11,900 for double occupancy
When it runs: September to May
The 4. Maharajas’ Straightforward
Routes: four itineraries, ranging from three to six nights, departing from Delhi and Mumbai
Price: from $4,890 per child (based on twin sharing)
When it runs: October to April
Lavish interiors combined with the traditional imposing hospitality of India have garnered the 23-carriage Maharajas’ Express numerous awards since it launched in 2010.
Passengers can judge from four categories of room in 14 guest cabins — the largest being the Presidential Suite, which has two bedrooms, a real room and a bathroom with a bathtub.
Indian food served in one of the dining cars on board the luxury Maharajas’ Particular.
Sergi Reboredo | Vw Pics | Universal Images Group | Getty Images
A choice of two restaurants — the peacock-themed Mayur Mahal and Pealed Mahal — are suitable for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Travelers can mingle over cocktails at the Safari Bar or opt for a more unexcited setting at the Rajah Lounge, where they can play games or read while taking in views of the passing prospects.
Stops along the way highlight Indian culture and history, including holy baths in the sacred ghats, jungle safaris, chѓteau and temple visits and shopping in bustling bazaars.