India Luxury Tours bring together style, service, and history. Two trains lead this space—the palace on wheels and the Maharaja Express. Both offer top-tier service and elegant travel. Yet, each delivers a different experience. This guide will help you see the difference clearly.
History and Design Style
Palace on Wheels
The palace on wheels train started in 1982. It draws from the past, with interiors inspired by Indian royalty. Each carriage reflects the charm of princely states. Guests step into spaces that mirror Rajasthan’s traditions. The woodwork, fabrics, and furniture echo an older time.
Maharaja Express
Maharaja Express launched in 2010. The coaches use modern designs with Indian patterns. Rooms have smart controls, clean lines, and fine fittings. The focus here is on privacy, tech, and luxury. It feels newer and more global.
Travel Routes
Where Palace on Wheels Goes
The palace on wheels runs through Rajasthan. Stops include Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Ranthambore. The train also visits Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. These cities offer palaces, lakes, deserts, and wildlife parks. The full trip takes seven nights.
Where Maharaja Express Goes
Maharaja Express offers four route choices. Some cover Rajasthan, but others go to Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi, and Khajuraho. Trips range from three to seven nights. The shorter options are good for guests with less time. The wider reach gives more variety.
Cabins and Interiors
Palace on Wheels Rooms
The palace on wheels train offers cabins in heritage style. Wood panels, classic prints, and brass fittings give it a warm look. Each room includes a private bathroom, AC, and twin beds. Some guests feel it’s a bit older, but still comfortable.
Maharaja Express Rooms
Cabins in Maharaja Express feel more current. The layouts are larger. Bathrooms are sleek. Guests can choose between Deluxe, Junior Suite, Suite, and Presidential Suite. Service in each room is available 24/7. Lighting, bedding, and space are more polished.
Dining on Board
Meals on Palace on Wheels
The palace on wheels has two restaurants: Maharaja and Maharani. Each offers Indian meals, along with Western and Continental dishes. Servers wear traditional attire. Meals are served with attention and care. Seating is group-style, which allows for conversation.
Meals on Maharaja Express
Maharaja Express also has two restaurants: Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal. Menus include Indian and global food, with more plated options. The setup feels more formal. Presentation is detailed, and ingredients are high quality. Guests also enjoy a full-service bar.
Service and Staff
Palace on Wheels Service
The team on the palace on wheels train includes cabin attendants, tour guides, and chefs. Staff members are warm and polite. They assist with daily needs and are available during outings. The service style leans toward personal attention and Indian customs.
Maharaja Express Service
Staff on Maharaja Express follow a different approach. Each guest gets a dedicated butler. Communication is quick and efficient. The team is trained for luxury clients from many countries. Service stays private and smooth.
Daily Tours and Off-Train Visits
Palace on Wheels Excursions
Each stop includes group tours. Guests visit forts, temples, and local markets. At Ranthambore, the journey includes a wildlife safari. In Udaipur and Jaisalmer, you’ll see lakes and deserts. These tours are guided and often include cultural shows.
Maharaja Express Excursions
Maharaja Express trips offer smaller group sizes or private outings. The guides focus on detail and comfort. Places like Varanasi or Khajuraho add more depth. Tour options include light walks, jeep rides, and city tours. Many stops have lunch or dinner at local venues.
Pricing and Value
Palace on Wheels Cost
A 7-night journey on the palace on wheels train starts around $4,000 per person. Prices vary by cabin and season. The fare includes meals, tours, entrance fees, and lodging. It offers good value in the luxury space.
Maharaja Express Cost
Maharaja Express pricing starts near $6,000 for a short journey in a Deluxe Cabin. Longer routes and bigger suites cost much more. The Presidential Suite can go beyond $20,000. The price covers all services, meals, transfers, and excursions.
Best Fit for Each Traveler
Who Should Choose Palace on Wheels
The palace on wheels is better for those who enjoy culture, art, and traditional design. Travelers who want to focus on Rajasthan will enjoy it. It’s also a strong choice for those who prefer quiet charm over bold luxury.
Who Should Choose Maharaja Express
Maharaja Express fits those looking for premium rooms, wider routes, and refined service. Guests who prefer privacy, newer interiors, and more travel choices often pick this one. It’s ideal for couples, solo luxury travelers, and global visitors.
Online Ratings and Guest Feedback
Both trains receive high scores from guests. Reviews for the palace on wheels praise the local feel, warm staff, and detailed tours. Some reviews mention that updates could improve the train’s appearance.
Maharaja Express reviews often highlight food, space, and overall smoothness. Guests like the calm mood, clean look, and quiet cabins. The higher price is the main concern mentioned.
Booking and Availability
Booking for both trains is open online. The palace on wheels train has a simpler booking interface. Agents are available by phone for help. It runs from September to April, and seats fill quickly in peak months.
Maharaja Express offers more details on routes, cabins, and dates. The site allows guests to compare cabins, see trip maps, and pick dates by season. Both trains accept bookings through trusted travel firms.
Awards and Recognition
The palace on wheels is well known within India. It has appeared in magazines, travel shows, and global listings. It holds a place in India’s tourism history.
Maharaja Express has won many global awards, including titles for best luxury train. It is often featured in top travel sites and luxury reports.
Final Note
India Luxury Tours offer two paths by rail. The palace on wheels brings heritage, comfort, and a sense of time travel. The Maharaja Express gives you polished design, premium cabins, and more places to explore. Each train serves its guests well—you just need to choose the one that feels right for your journey.
