India - one word that conjures a million images. Tigers, snake charmers, colours, mysticism, royalty, Rolls Royces, cuisines, arts, dances, plays, music, forts, palaces, temples, monuments, people, mountains, beaches, jungles, deserts, romance, dreams... the list is truly endless.
So how does one explore it all in one lifetime?
The answer lies on board the Maharajas' Express. Here, you will find the time and space to unravel the varied tapestry of this majestic landscape at your own pace. As you step on board, you will find yourself transported back in time to embark on the voyage of your lifetime.
Princely India is a truly spectacular journey through Western India and the legendary Taj Mahal ! India is a country that holds a deep fascination for the world and is home to some of the most spectacular architecture and monuments, all steeped in rich history. Join us on this incredible 8 - day journey of exploration of India's diversity, discovering timeless traditions and exotic locales. Discover the vibrant, bustling city of Mumbai, imperial Delhi, marvel at the immortal beauty of the Taj Mahal, come face to face with a tiger in Ranthambore, visit the Amber Fort in Jaipur and explore the shimmering Lake City of Udaipur. All of this in true-blue royalty, of course.
Accommodation
A train that never falls short of promising you a royal experience, the Maharajas' Express features five carriages for Deluxe Cabins, six for Junior Suites, two for Suites and one for grand Presidential Suite.
Each cabin has:
• Individual temperature controls
• LCD television & DVD player
• Direct dial telephone
• Electronic safe deposit box
• 110/230V power sockets
Deluxe Cabin (10sqm)
Room: 2.87m x 2.36m
Ensuite: 2.36m x 1.45m
Double or Twin bedded room
Junior Suite (13.5sqm)
Room: 4.12m x 2.36m
Ensuite: 2.36m x 1.47m
Double or twin beds and has a sitting area within the room space.
Suite (20.5sqm)
Room: 6.6m x 2.36m
Ensuite: 2.33m x 2.36m
Double bed and has a sitting area which is separate from the bedroom.
Presidential Suite (43sqm)
Double Room: 4.57m x 2.36m
Double Room Ensuite: 2.44m x 2.36m
Twin Room: 4.27m x 2.36m
Twin Room Ensuite: 2.36m x 1.52m
Sitting: 5.03m x 2.36m
Two bedrooms (1 x double bed and 1 x twin beds) and a separate sitting/dining room.
Dining
A royal banquet for royal passengers, the Maharajas' Express has two fine dining restaurants that seat 42 persons at a time; and everyone on board dines together. Wines and beer served whilst dining come complimentary, of course.
Special Dietary Requirements:
Kindly specify any special dietary requirements at the time of booking to avoid disappointment during your journey. Every effort will be made to accommodate all culinary requests; however, we are unable to provide meals requiring strict religious observance in the preparation
Bar and Lounges
One exotic Safari bar with the choicest collection of house brands of wines, beer and spirits with snacks come complimentary to every passenger. There's also a lounge cum bar Raja Club with comfortable club arm-chairs. And if these features don't make you feel pampered, the Maharajas' Express also houses a high-end boutique featuring exquisite and unique creations.
Transport
From super deluxe coaches for Deluxe Cabin and Junior Suite passengers, to cars for the Suite and Presidential Suite passengers each at every destination. All equipped with complimentary sightseeing kits like bottle coolers, pith hats and shoe uppers. After all, when it comes to providing comfort to royals, every little detail matters. That's what the Maharajas' Express has in waiting for you when you step off.
Itinerary
Your vacation includes:
• Accommodation in double / twin bedded cabins with en suite bathrooms
• All meals
• Soft beverages, house brands of Indian wines, beer and spirits
• Butler service
• Guided off train excursions as illustrated in the journeys
• Entrance fees
• Still camera fee
• Transport
• Services of a guide
• Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water on board
• Porterage at stations.
• All applicable prepayable taxes
Not included:
• Any optional tours as mentioned in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities
• Telephone calls
• Laundry services
• Alcoholic beverages (except those mentioned above)
• Video, film and professional still camera fees
• Arrival and departure transfers
Journey Highlights:
• Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
• Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum
• City Palace in Udaipur
• Royal Cocktail evening at Meherangarh Fort,Jodhpur
• Junagarh Fort and Diwan-i-Khas, Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal and Anup Mahal at Bikaner
• A convoy of decorated canopied camel carts accompanied by musicians takes you for a Sundowner in the Sand Dunes
• Exhibition Elephant Polo Match
• Amber Fort
• Ranthambore National Park
• Fatehpur Sikri
• Champagne breakfast gazing at the Taj Mahal, from atop the Taj Khema
Itinerary:
Day 1: Mumbai
Meals: Dinner on board
Day 2: Vadodara-Jambhughoda
Meals: Breakfast on board; Lunch at Jambhughoda; Supper at Laxmi Vilas Palace.
Day 3: Udaipur
Meals: Breakfast on board; Lunch in Durbar Hall; Dinner on board
Day 4: Jodhpur
Meals: Breakfast on board; Lunch on board; Barbecue at Meherangarh Fort
Day 5: Bikaner
Meals: Breakfast on board; Lunch on board; evening barbecue on dunes
Day 6: Jaipur
M
eals: Breakfast on board; Elephant Polo Lunch at a private venue; Dinner on board.
Day 7: Ranthambore National Park (Sawai Madhopur)–Fatehpur Sikri
Meals: Breakfast at Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge; Lunch and Dinner on board.
Day 8: Agra-Delhi
Meals: Champagne Breakfast at Taj Khema; Lunch on board
For full details regarding the itinerary for this journey, click on the "Download Itinerary" button.
Departure Information
2011
Nov 5
Dec 3, 31
2012
Jan 28
Feb 25
Mar 24
Oct 6
Nov 3
Dec 1, 29
Additional Information
Checkin:
Guests are required to check-in at least 1 hour prior to departure at Mumbai and Delhi for pre-boarding formalities.
Checkin takes place at a pre assigned venue in Mumbai and Delhi, as detailed below. Final details of the meeting point will be provided in the travel documents and vouchers. Following completion of boarding formalities, you will be escorted to your cabin and assisted with your luggage.
On your final night on board, the Train Manager will assist with disembarkation formalities which include luggage and clearance of extras.
Princely India: Check in at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, Mumbai at 2.30pm. The trains departs from Mumbai's Chatrpati Shivaji Terminus at 4.40pm, returning to Delhi Safdarjung Station at 3.30pm at the conclusion of the tour.
Royal India: Check in at Delhi Safdarjung Station at 8.30pm. The trains departs at 10.00pm, returning to Mumbai - Lokmanya Tilak Terminus at 8.30am at the conclusion of the tour.
Classical India: Check in at Delhi Safdarjung Station at 8.30am. The trains departs at 10.00am, returning to Delhi Safdarjung Station at 8.30am at the conclusion of the tour.
Royal Sojourn: Check in at Delhi Safdarjung Station at 8.30am. The trains departs at 10.00am, returning to Delhi Safdarjung Station at 8.30am at the conclusion of the tour.
Travel documentation and insurance:
You must have visa before arriving in India and these are available at Indian missions worldwide. Please ensure that you have correct and valid documentation to enter India.
Travel Documents, which are valid only for the passenger(s) named, will be issued by the supplier to Rail Tickets after receipt of full payment for your reservation and not normally later than 14 days prior to departure. Please carry your confirmation of booking with you on departure.
Rail Tickets strongly recommends that you take out travel insurance to cover cancellations, health requirements, luggage and valuables.
Additional charges:
All major currencies and credit cards are accepted as forms for payment for additional charges which are incurred during your journey.
Information for smokers:
In accordance with Indian Law, smoking is not permissible on board the train. Smoking is also prohibited in all public places such as restaurants, airports, stations, shopping malls, hotels, public areas etc.
Climate:
September is at the end of the monsoon period and temperatures can range from 35°C - 40°C, it can also be humid. Between October and December the post monsoon period sees a drop in temperatures with the average minimum around to 18°C and maximum 38°C. January to March is the winter period, with January being the region’s coldest month. Temperatures during these months can range from 10°C to 27°C. April is the start of summer and temperatures in this season range from 32°C to 45°C.
Clothing:
We recommend smart casual clothing and suitable walking shoes for off-train excursions during the day. Comfortable attire in natural subdued colours (bright colours are not advised) which blend with the landscape is essential for all excursion to wildlife reserves. The tradition and sheer elegance of the train provides an opportunity to dress for the occasion, recreating the magic and opulence of a royal era. Lounge suit / blue blazer is acceptable. Warm clothing is advisable on the winter departures.
Baggage allowance:
There is limited storage space inside your cabin. We recommend that each guest travels with luggage as per international airline - rules for first / business class passengers. It is also advisable to carry soft-topped luggage as it is easier to store. Luggage storage is provided under the bed and in the luggage hold.
Mobile Phones:
It is kindly requested that mobile phones are placed on silent mode whilst on board the train out of consideration for your fellow passengers and also while visiting certain monuments on your Off Train Excursions. The use of cell phones and laptop computers is discouraged in all the public areas and should be used in the privacy of your cabin.
The reception can vary while the train is moving, but does improve when the train is stationary or near main roads.
To Book
This product is not currently available to book through our online booking system.
To book, please contact one of our Rail Specialists on 1300 360 823 or email details of your requirements to
info@railtickets.com.au
Terms and Conditions
Payment:
At all times a deposit is required to confirm booking.
76 days or more prior to departure: Deposit 25% of tour cost
75 days prior to departure: Full payment required
Bookings made inside 75 days: Full payment required to confirm booking
Cancellation Policy:
90 days or more prior to departure: Deposit
89-60 days prior to departure: 50% of published cost
59-0 days prior to departure/ No show: 100% of published cost
Refunds:
Refunds are entirely at the discretion of the supplier. No refunds will be given for unutilized services. An administration fee will apply to any approved refund.
Child policy:
Maharajas' Express does accommodate children but parents are asked to be mindful of the sophisticated adult atmosphere that the Maharajah’s Express endeavours to maintain.
• Children below 5 years shall be allowed free, subject to sharing of double bed with parents. This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking.
• Not a recommended option by the supplier.
• One child (5-12 yrs) 50% of the adult fare, subject to sharing of double bed with parents. This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking.
• Not a recommended option by the supplier.
• Two children travelling with parents will be accommodated in a separate cabin, where first child pays 50% of the adult fare and the second child will have to pay the adult cost.
• The only interconnecting cabins option is with the Presidential Suite car.
• All applicable taxes will be charged extra.
