India is a country with a rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. It is a country that is known for its hospitality, food, and people. If you want to experience the beauty of India in luxury and comfort, there is no better way than by train. In this article, we will take you on a journey through India's luxury train travel and everything you need to know to have an unforgettable experience.
The History of Luxury Train Travel in India
The history of luxury trains in India dates back to the colonial era, where the British introduced luxury trains to cater to the needs of the British aristocracy traveling through the country. The most famous of these is the Palace on Wheels, which was introduced in 1982 and still operates today.
Other luxury trains in India include the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, Deccan Odyssey, Golden Chariot, and the Maharajas' Express each offering a unique and luxurious experience of traveling through India. These trains are known for their elegant interiors, world-class dining, and top-notch services, offering a glimpse into India's rich history and culture.
The first luxury train in India was the Palace on Wheels. It was launched in 1982 by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) to promote tourism in the state of Rajasthan. The train offered tourists a royal experience, with its luxurious interiors and royal décor.
The success of the Palace on Wheels led to the launch of other luxury trains in India, such as the Deccan Odyssey, the Golden Chariot, and the Maharaja's Express. These trains offer tourists a unique opportunity to explore the different regions of India.
The Palace on Wheels is the most popular luxury train in India. It covers destinations such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Agra, and Delhi.
The Deccan Odyssey covers destinations such as Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Hyderabad, and Belgaum.
The Golden Chariot covers destinations such as Bangalore, Mysore, Hassan, Goa, and Kochi.
The Maharaja's Express covers destinations such as Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Udaipur, and Varanasi.
The popularity of luxury trains in India is evident from the fact that they are often fully booked. In fact, the Maharaja's Express is often referred to as the "most luxurious train in the world".
There are other luxury trains which are occassionally operational like Royal Orient train, Fairy Queen Express and heritage on Wheels.
So, if you're looking for a unique and royal experience in India, be sure to check out one of the country's luxury trains.
Types of Luxury Trains in India
There are several luxury trains in India that cater to different routs and budgets. Some of the most popular luxury trains in India include: