LUXURY TRAINS IN INDIA
Trains are not only used for transportation of passengers/tourists but are also offered as tourism products. In India, we have about seven luxury trains. These luxury trains are owned by Indian Railways (IR) and the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). These trains provide a variety of luxury comforts on trains. They transport the tourists back to the era of kings onboard.
1. MAHARAJAS' EXPRESS :
Best among all Indian luxury trains, Maharajas' express is also one of the 5most luxurious trains in the world. This half-a-mile long train boasts of professionals prepared to meet the highest quality of hospitality, fully stocked bars, lavish suites, butler services, and whatnot. It is one of the most expensive trains in India.
Maharajas' Express is operational from October to April and plies on 5 different routes. The duration and ticket costs for these routes are as follows:
- Gems of India and Treasures of India - a 4-day journey for INR 2,57,950 (approx) each
- Indian Splendour and The Indian Panorama - 8 days journey for INR 4,00,660 (approx) each
- Heritage of India - 8 days journey for INR 4,58,280 approx
2. PALACE ON WHEELS :
The Palace on Wheels is a luxury tourist train. It was launched by the Indian Railways in association with Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation to promote tourism in Rajasthan. The train service was refurbished and relaunched with new decor, itinerary, and cuisine.
The train has 7 nights and 8 days itinerary departs from New Delhi (Day 1) and covers Jaipur (Day 2), Sawai Madhopur and Chittaurgarh (Day 3), Udaipur (Day 4), Jaisalmer (Day 5), Jodhpur (Day 6), Bharatpur and Agra (Day 7), return to New Delhi (Day 8).
Starting fairs: For international travelers: US$3500 +4.5% Service tax. For Indian Travelers : INR 2,10,000 + 4.5% Service tax.
3. THE DECCAN ODYSSEY :
Deccan Odyssey is a 5-star hotel on wheels that takes you to some fascinating destinations in India. Royal treatment for passengers, palace-like interiors of the cabins, multi-cuisine restaurants, lounges, a conference car, an onboard spa, and other state-of-the-art amenities make it one of the most luxurious trains in India and the world well.
The Deccan Odyssey operates from October to April, and the duration for all 6 routes is 7 nights & 8 Days. Starting Fares: For International travelers- US$5,810+ 4.5% service tax, For Indian travelers - INR 3,71,900 +4.5% service tax. Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian options are available in Indian and Continental cuisines.
4. THE GOLDEN CHARIOT :
The Golden Chariot is one of the superb luxury trains in India that takes you to some of the most famous tourist places in south India. It was launched in 2008 and was well known for its impeccable hospitality. The train has Ac chambers, royal interiors, bars, restaurants serving a multi-variety of cuisines, mini gym, Ayurveda spa, and other 5-star facilities. It was regarded by tourists as one of India's best luxury trains and awarded as 'Asia's Leading Luxury Train' in 2013.
5. ROYAL ORIENT TRAIN :
Royal Orient train is a fascinating train which is all set to offer its passengers a royal experience. Its opulence makes it among the most luxurious trains in the world. The Highlight of the train is its royal richness, providing an opportunity to feel and taste the Rai culture. A royal sojourn takes you to the culturally rich states of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
This popular luxury train offers 8 day and 7 nights journey for a memorable experience. The royal expedition takes passengers through Delhi, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Veraval, Somnath, Sasan Gir National Park, Ahmedpur, Mandvi, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur. The journey comes up with a perfect opportunity to enjoy sightseeing tours and desert safaris for a unique experience.
6. FAIRY QUEEN EXPRESS :
The Fairy Queen Express is one of the oldest trains providing luxury train journeys in India. Powered by the oldest serving steam locomotive built around 1855, Fairy Queen has its own charm as it rambles through to Alwar in Rajasthan. With a mention in the Guinness Book of World Records and a recipient of the National Tourism Award, Fairy Queen easily makes the most luxurious trains in India.
Route : Delhi - Alwar - Sariska - Alwar - Delhi. It runs from October to March on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month. The duration of the journey is 1 night and 2 days.
Starting fares for the full package ( Two-way train journey + sightseeing/ stay at Sariska for an adult ): INR 8600 + Government taxes/ Service taxes.
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