The Maharaja Express Train is one of the top luxury trains in India. It offers high-end service, elegant interiors, and curated experiences. If you're planning a trip on this train, the booking process is clear but requires attention to detail. This guide will walk you through each step so you can plan without confusion.

Start With the Basics

Before you book, it helps to understand what kind of journey you’re signing up for. The Maharaja Express is not like regular rail travel. It combines hotel-style comfort with sightseeing across historic cities.

The train features fine dining, personalized service, private cabins, and guided excursions. All meals and local tours are part of the package. The goal is to offer a smooth, high-comfort way to see India.

Each journey is fully planned. You don’t need to organize hotels, meals, or transport in each city. The team manages everything so you can focus on the experience.

Review the Routes

There are five main itineraries. Each one covers a set of cities and runs for a fixed number of days. Picking the right one depends on what kind of places you want to visit and how many days you have.

1. Heritage of India

Covers Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ranthambore, and Agra. A good fit for travelers who enjoy royal palaces and forts.

2. Indian Panorama

Starts in Delhi and includes Jaipur, Ranthambore, Agra, Orchha, Khajuraho, and Varanasi. This route mixes history with spiritual sites.

3. Indian Splendour

Runs from Delhi to Mumbai, visiting Agra, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Balasinor.

4. Gems of India

A short journey covering Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur. Ideal for those who want a brief but rich experience.

5. Treasures of India

Similar to the Gems of India but on a different schedule. Stops include Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur.

Each tour has fixed dates, so check which ones match your availability. All routes are available on the official website.

Pick Your Travel Date

After selecting a route, check the departure schedule. The Maharaja Express express runs from October to April. These months offer better weather for sightseeing.

Some routes run only once or twice a month. Booking early helps you get your preferred dates. If you wait too long, cabins may sell out—especially during the holiday season.

Plan to arrive in the departure city at least one day in advance. This avoids delays caused by flights or road travel.

Choose Your Cabin

The train offers four cabin types. Prices and features vary. All cabins come with private bathrooms, climate control, and room service.

Deluxe Cabin

The base-level option. Comfortable and well-fitted, with everything you need for a smooth ride.

Junior Suite

Larger space with better views and more room to relax. Includes a seating area.

Suite

Adds more space and upgraded decor. Comes with a separate living room and more premium features.

Presidential Suite

Covers an entire carriage. Includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and full butler service.

Pick based on your group size, comfort level, and budget. The amenities are strong across all categories.

Know What the Fare Covers

Prices vary by route and cabin type. All fares include several built-in features that reduce the need for separate planning.

Included in the Fare

• Onboard meals
• Sightseeing tours
• Entry fees to monuments
• Airport transfers
• Tea, coffee, and house wine
• Butler service

Not Included

• Flights to and from India
• Personal shopping
• Visa fees
• Premium alcohol
• Tips and personal items

This package structure allows you to plan your total cost in advance. Make sure to check the cancellation terms before you pay.

Use Verified Booking Sources

To book your journey, visit the official website (www.the-maharajas.com). You’ll find route options, schedules, cabin details, and pricing.

If you prefer working with a travel agent, pick one authorized by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Avoid using websites that are not verified or show incomplete information.

Trusted agents will provide full booking support, including help with visa information and payment support. Always ask for written confirmation once you complete the payment.

Prepare the Required Documents

Make sure your ID and travel papers are ready before booking. For Indian travelers, a government-issued photo ID works. For foreign nationals, a passport is required.

A valid visa for India is mandatory for non-citizens. Apply early, as visa processing may take time. Keep digital copies of your ID and passport ready to upload during booking.

Make the Payment

Once your route, cabin, and date are confirmed, you’ll be directed to the payment page. You can pay using credit cards, debit cards, or bank transfers.

Points to Remember

• Full payment is usually required at the time of booking
• Partial payment may be allowed by some travel agents
• Always check refund policies
• Save your confirmation details for future reference

After the payment is done, you will receive a booking confirmation and itinerary by email.

Review Pre-Departure Instructions

Before your journey starts, review the details in your confirmation email. It includes boarding time, pickup points, and contact numbers.

Packing Checklist

• Light clothes for daytime travel
• A few formal outfits for dinner
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Any personal medicine

Avoid carrying too many bags. The cabins have enough storage, but space is not unlimited. Stick to practical packing.

Plan Your Arrival and Departure

The train usually starts from Delhi or Mumbai. Book your flight to arrive one day early. This gives you time to rest before boarding.

Check if your hotel offers transport to the boarding station. If not, request pickup through your travel agent or book a reliable cab service.

After the journey ends, you may need a hotel stay or a flight back home. Booking these in advance helps you avoid last-minute costs.

Confirm Final Details

Three to five days before the trip, contact your travel agent or the official booking team to confirm your ticket and boarding details. Print all emails, carry your ID, and pack a hard copy of your visa if you're traveling from another country.

Being ready helps you start the trip without stress.

Maharaja Express Train journeys offer more than just travel. They give you a seat inside India’s royal history—without the need to plan every stop. The booking process is simple if you follow each step carefully. The service, comfort, and attention to detail make the Maharaja Express one of the most respected luxury trains in Asia.