xperience India’s Luxury Trains: Top Royal Journeys on Wheels

Alok K Singh

Indian railways have long captivated travelers, writers, photographers, and filmmakers. Among them, luxury train journeys in India stand out for their unmatched charm, offering scenic landscapes, royal heritage, and cultural richness. From Rajasthan’s palaces to Madhya Pradesh’s tiger reserves, these trains function as lavish cruises on wheels, allowing travelers to explore India’s grandeur in style.

While many prefer air travel for speed, the luxury trains in India provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience with 5-star hospitality, Wi-Fi-enabled suites, spa services, fine dining, and curated cultural itineraries. Here’s a guide to the top luxury trains in India that combine royalty, comfort, and adventure.

Palace on Wheels

Launched in 1982, Palace on Wheels is India’s iconic luxury train. Initially catering to Rajputana rulers, Nizams of Hyderabad, and the British Viceroy, it now offers travelers a royal experience with 23 opulent coaches named after pre-independence Rajputana states. Covering the Golden Triangle, the 7-night journey includes Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Ranthambore, and the Thar Desert, featuring plush duvets, frescoed interiors, and exclusive camel rides.

Maharajas’ Express

Maharajas’ Express has won the World’s Leading Luxury Train award at the World Travel Awards (2012–2018) and Asia’s Leading Luxury Train (2020–2022). With mirror mosaic ceilings, raw-silk upholstery, and gold-rimmed dining plates, it offers four cabin categories and seven pan-Indian itineraries. Highlights include Jaipur, Ranthambore, Fatehpur Sikri, the Taj Mahal, Khajuraho, and Varanasi.

Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey blends luxury with historical exploration. Passengers enjoy 2 presidential suites, 40 air-conditioned deluxe cabins, a spa, gym, bar, conference space, and personal butler service. The seven-night “Jewels of the Deccan” tour covers Hampi, Badami, Ajanta and Ellora caves, and Hyderabad’s bazaars, offering both relaxation and cultural immersion.

Golden Chariot

The Golden Chariot showcases South India’s splendor with 19 purple-and-golden coaches. Popular among domestic travelers, its “Jewels of South” itinerary spans Bangalore, Mysore, Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, and Kerala’s backwaters. Guests enjoy fine dining at Nala Restaurant and exotic drinks at the Madira lounge bar.

Buddhist Circuit Train (Mahaparinirvan Express)

For spiritual and cultural journeys, the Buddhist Circuit Train travels across India and Nepal. It stops at heritage sites like Rajgir, Nalanda, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Bodhgaya, Sarnath, and Varanasi. The train features deluxe cabins, multi-cuisine restaurants, a mini-library, and wellness amenities. Travelers also gain insights into Lord Buddha’s life, enlightenment, and teachings.

Luxury train travel in India is more than just a journey. It blends heritage, culture, opulence, and adventure in a way air travel cannot match. From the regal Palace on Wheels to the serene Buddhist Circuit, India’s luxury trains create unforgettable memories.

Alok K Singh is the Co-Founder & CEO of Travomint.