Luxury Train Journeys in India: Premium Rides, Routes, and What to Expect
When you think of luxury train journeys, high-end rail travel that blends comfort, history, and scenic routes. Also known as royal train tours, it’s not just about getting from point A to B—it’s about traveling like royalty through India’s most breathtaking landscapes. These aren’t ordinary trains. They’re moving palaces with polished wood, crystal chandeliers, and personal butlers serving meals cooked by chefs trained in regional cuisines.
India’s top Palace on Wheels, a heritage luxury train that runs through Rajasthan’s royal cities takes you from Delhi to Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer, stopping at forts and palaces only accessible by rail. Then there’s the Deccan Odyssey, a luxury train that explores Maharashtra and Goa with spa services and guided temple tours, perfect for travelers who want culture without sacrificing comfort. And if you’re drawn to South India’s backwaters and temples, the Golden Chariot, a train inspired by the Vijayanagara Empire that connects Bangalore, Mysore, and Hampi offers a regal ride through ancient ruins and spice plantations.
What makes these journeys special isn’t just the five-star service—it’s the access. You get private entries to UNESCO sites, live classical music performances in your cabin, and curated excursions that most tourists never see. The trains run on fixed itineraries, so you’re never stuck figuring out transport or hotels. Everything’s planned, from your evening cocktail to your morning turban-wearing guide at a 16th-century fort.
And yes, you can wear jeans—just not on the dinner service. Most luxury trains have dress codes: casual for daytime, smart formal for dinner. Think linen shirts, silk saris, and polished shoes. It’s not about showing off—it’s about matching the vibe of a journey that feels like stepping into a living history book.
These rides aren’t cheap, but they’re not just for the ultra-rich. Many travelers book them as once-in-a-lifetime experiences—sometimes even as anniversary or milestone trips. And if you’ve ever wondered how the Indian elite travel, this is your answer. You’re not just seeing India. You’re experiencing it the way kings and maharajas once did.
Below, you’ll find real stories, packing tips, and insider advice on how to pick the right luxury train for your style—whether you want desert dunes, tea plantations, or temple bells ringing as the train rolls past.
