Maharajas' Express

The Maharajas' Express recreates the splendour of royal India on rails, with 23 carriages of carved woodwork, rich tapestries and antiques carrying just 88 guests. Named the world's leading luxury train seven years running, it pairs butler service and two palatial restaurants with journeys through India's forts, palaces and wildlife country.

There are four journeys. Treasures of India is the shortest at 4 days and 3 nights, while Heritage of India, Indian Panorama and Indian Splendour each last 7 days and 6 nights.

Treasures of India and Indian Panorama are round trips from Delhi. Indian Splendour runs from Delhi to Mumbai through Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur and Udaipur, and Heritage of India covers much the same Rajasthan route in the opposite direction, from Mumbai to Delhi, adding Fatehpur Sikri.

There are four categories, all with their own bathroom. The 20 Deluxe Cabins (112 sq ft) and 18 Junior Suites (150 sq ft) come with twin or double beds, while the four Suites (220 sq ft) add large panoramic windows and a bathtub. The single Presidential Suite (448 sq ft) fills an entire carriage, with two bedrooms, a private living room and a round-the-clock personal valet.

Meals are served in two themed restaurant cars, each seating 42 guests: Mayur Mahal, inspired by the peacock, and Rang Mahal, the 'palace of colours'. Tables are laid with fine china and gold- and silver-plated cutlery. All meals are included, along with soft drinks, house brands of wine, beer and spirits, and complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water.

Every night is spent on board, usually as the train travels to the next city, and sometimes stationed overnight, for example at Jaipur or Agra. Evenings are spent in the Safari Bar, with its library and board games, or the Rajah Club observation lounge, and butler service is provided throughout.

It suits travellers who want to see India's great forts, palaces and wildlife in comfort, without organising the details themselves. Guided excursions include entrance fees, transport and a guide, porterage is provided at stations, and a paramedic is on board around the clock.

If time is short, Treasures of India covers Jaipur, a Ranthambore game drive and the Taj Mahal at sunrise in four days. Indian Panorama adds Orchha, Khajuraho and Varanasi for a more spiritual week, while Indian Splendour and Heritage of India focus on Rajasthan's palace cities, the Bikaner dunes and Udaipur's Lake Pichola, linking Delhi and Mumbai. Live dates and fares are shown on each journey page, and our reservations team can help on (866) 484-7882.