Maharajahs' Express: Indian Panorama

Day 1 : Delhi > Jaipur

This morning at 7:00 am you will complete your check-in formalities at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station before departing for Jaipur.

After lunch on board, you will disembark and transfer by jeep to Amber Fort, a captivating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture set in picturesque hills. It was constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh, the fort features red sandstone and white marble. Its rugged exterior hides an inner paradise with a beautiful fusion of art and architecture.

You will tour the royal apartments, which offer stunning views of the gorge, and step back into the Mughal era as you explore the Chamber of Mirrors (Sheesh Mahal) and the Hall of Victory.

Day 2 : Jaipur > Sawai Madhopur > Ranthambore National Park

After breakfast on board, disembark and visit the Jaipur City Palace galleries, including the Textile, Arms, and Arts Museums. Here you can admire the famous Sterling Silver Vessels, made from 14,000 silver coins that were used by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II to carry Ganges water to England for King Edward VII’s coronation in 1901. Return to the train for lunch. Afterwards, relax on board or participate in optional activities.

In the evening, enjoy an exclusive dinner at the Rambagh Palace Hotel. Built in 1835, the palace was the Maharaja of Jaipur’s residence until 1957 when it became a luxury hotel. It retains its royal splendour with hand-carved marble latticework and elaborate gardens. Afterwards, you will return to the Maharajas’ Express as it departs for Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore).

Day 3 : Ranthambore > Fatehpur Sikri > Agra

Arrive early in Sawai Madhopur for a safari in Ranthambore National Park, renowned for its tiger sightings and diverse wildlife. Once the Maharajas’ private hunting ground, it became a National Park in 1973.

Embark on an early morning game drive in open vehicles; bring warm clothing for the winter months. Return to the train for breakfast as you journey to Fatehpur Sikri, enjoying lunch while admiring the changing landscape.

Disembark at Fatehpur Sikri for a tour of its impressive gateways, audience halls, and sculptured palaces, reflecting a blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a marvel of red sandstone. Return to the Maharajas’ Express as it heads to Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal.

Day 4 : Agra > Orchha

Early in the morning, disembark to visit the world-famous Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz, this marvel is constructed entirely of white marble with exquisite inlay work and marble screens. Around 20,000 of India’s finest craftsmen created this “poetry in marble.”

Later, enjoy breakfast atop the Taj Khema, a tabletop lawn with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal. After breakfast, return to the train for lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure or participate in optional activities. This evening, enjoy dinner onboard as the train proceeds to Orchha.

Day 5 : Orchha > Khajuraho > Varanasi

Disembark at Orchha Railway Station to visit the quaint village of Orchha, known for its rustic lifestyle. Explore the Orchha Fort, built in the 1500s by the Bundela rulers, overlooking the Betwa River. A short Tuk Tuk ride will offer you a glimpse of village life. Return to the train for breakfast.

You will also enjoy a relaxed lunch onboard as the train travels through picturesque landscapes towards Khajuraho, renowned for its architecture and exquisite sculptures. Built between 950 and 1050 AD, these temples are superb examples of Indo-Aryan architecture with highly sensual engravings depicting human emotions and relationships.

On arrival, tour the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho, including the western group of temples and the Kandariya Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Return to the train for an ‘Indian evening’ as it proceeds to Varanasi.

Day 6 : Varanasi > Delhi

Enjoy breakfast on board as your journey continues through lush agricultural fields, arriving in the ancient holy city of Varanasi. Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, boasts a spiritual legacy of over 3000 years. Set on the banks of the sacred Ganges, it’s a place of pilgrimage filled with vibrant bazaars, colourful silks, festivals, temples, mosques, and palaces.

After disembarking, proceed for lunch at Hotel Taj Ganges. Visit the ancient ruins of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Then, visit a Silk Weaving Centre, where you can shop for the famous Banarasi silk saris and brocades.

Enjoy a boat cruise on the Ganges, culminating in a magical evening aarti at the ghats. Return to the Maharajas’ Express for dinner as the train departs for Delhi.

Day 7 : Delhi

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard as the train travels to Delhi. You will disembark at approximately 12:20 pm at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station.