Maharajas' Express
The Maharajas’ Express is one of India’s most luxurious and prestigious luxury trains, known for offering a royal experience while traversing some of the country’s most iconic destinations.
Maharajas' Express
The train offers several different itineraries, each covering a unique set of destinations. Below is a sample itinerary for the “Heritage of India” journey, one of the popular routes of the Maharajas’ Express:
Mumbai –>Ajanta Caves –>Udaipur –>Jodhpur –>Bikaner –>Jaipur –>Delhi
Day 1: Mumbai (Mumbai to Ajanta Caves)
- Check-in at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai.
- Enjoy a traditional welcome and settle into your luxurious cabins.
- Depart for Ajanta, and dinner will be served on board.
Day 2: Ajanta Caves
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ajanta Caves, known for their ancient Buddhist cave paintings and sculptures.
- Return to the train for lunch.
- In the afternoon, you can choose between leisure time on the train or opt for a visit to the Ellora Caves (optional).
- Return to the train for dinner and depart for Udaipur.
Day 3: Udaipur
- Arrive in the “City of Lakes,” Udaipur.
- Explore the City Palace, followed by a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
- Visit the Crystal Gallery or the Vintage Car Collection (optional activities).
- Return to the train for lunch.
- In the afternoon, you can choose between leisure time or attending optional activities like a spa session or a visit to a local art gallery.
- Dinner on board as the train continues to Jodhpur.
Day 4: Jodhpur
- Arrive in Jodhpur, known as the “Blue City.”
- Visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort and the Jaswant Thada.
- Return to the train for lunch.
- Explore the local markets and shops.
- Dinner on board as the train proceeds to Bikaner.
Day 5: Bikaner
- Visit Junagarh Fort, known for its architectural brilliance.
- Explore Lalgarh Palace Museum and the camel breeding farm.
- Return to the train for lunch.
- In the evening, enjoy cultural performances at a heritage hotel.
- Dinner on board as the train departs for Jaipur.
Day 6: Jaipur
- Arrive in Jaipur, the “Pink City.”
- Visit the Amber Fort and enjoy an elephant ride (subject to availability).
- Explore City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal.
- Return to the train for lunch.
- In the afternoon, choose between leisure time or optional activities like spa treatments or shopping.
- Dinner on board as the train proceeds to Delhi.
Day 7: Delhi
- Arrive in Delhi, the capital city of India.
- Visit Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minar, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner on board.
- Disembark at the Safdarjung Railway Station, marking the end of your journey.
Please note that the Maharajas’ Express offers various itineraries, each with its own unique set of destinations and experiences. The train provides luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, guided tours, and cultural performances throughout the journey. Itineraries and schedules may vary depending on the specific trip and any updates made by the train operator, so it’s advisable to check with them for the most current information and availability.
A Golden Triangle travel package typically includes a variety of services and amenities to ensure a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for travelers. Here are some common inclusions you can expect in a Golden Triangle travel package:
Accommodation: Hotel stays in each of the three cities (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur) are usually included. The package may offer a range of accommodation options from budget to luxury, depending on your preferences.
Transportation: The package typically covers transportation between the cities, which can be by private car, coach, or train, depending on the package type and your preferences. Airport or railway station transfers are also usually included.
Sightseeing and Tours: Guided tours and entrance fees to major attractions are often part of the package. This may include visits to iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Amber Fort, City Palace, and more. The services of an experienced tour guide might be included to provide historical and cultural insights.
Meals: Some packages include daily breakfast at the hotels. Depending on the package, you might also get additional meals like lunches or dinners at select restaurants or within the hotels.
Local Experiences: Some packages might offer cultural experiences such as traditional dance performances, local crafts demonstrations, and other immersive activities.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance coverage for the duration of the package might be included. Be sure to check the details of the coverage.
Local Transfers: Transfers for local sightseeing within each city might be provided, ensuring that you’re picked up and dropped off at your hotel or a central location.
English-Speaking Guide: The services of an English-speaking guide during city tours and sightseeing are commonly included. This guide can provide insights into the history, culture, and significance of the sites you visit.
Taxes and Service Charges: Most reputable packages include all applicable taxes and service charges, ensuring there are no hidden fees.
It’s important to carefully review the details of any travel package to ensure you understand what is included and what might have additional costs. Some packages may also offer optional add-ons, customization options, or extensions to nearby destinations. Always confirm the specifics with the travel agency or tour operator before booking to make sure you get the experience you desire.
While Golden Triangle tour packages offer a comprehensive travel experience, there are certain items and services that are typically excluded from the package cost. It’s important to be aware of these exclusions so that you can plan and budget accordingly. Here are some common exclusions you might encounter in a Golden Triangle tour package:
Airfare: The cost of flights to and from your home country or other destinations outside the Golden Triangle region is usually not included in the package. Airfare is typically the responsibility of the traveler to arrange separately.
Visa Fees: If you require a visa to enter India, the fees associated with obtaining the visa are generally not included in the package cost.
Travel Insurance: While some packages might include travel insurance, others may not. It’s important to clarify whether travel insurance coverage is included or if you need to arrange it separately.
Personal Expenses: Expenses such as shopping, additional meals not included in the package, beverages, laundry, telephone calls, and other personal expenses are typically not covered.
Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are generally not included in the package price. It’s customary to tip service providers based on your satisfaction with their services.
Optional Activities: Any optional tours, activities, or experiences that are not explicitly mentioned in the package itinerary might come at an additional cost.
Entry Visa Fees: Entry fees for certain attractions or monuments that are not part of the core itinerary may not be included in the package cost.
Additional Transport: If you choose to do any extra sightseeing, shopping, or exploration beyond what is outlined in the package, the transportation costs for those activities might not be covered.
Medical Expenses: Costs related to medical treatment, medication, and medical emergencies are generally not included in the package.
Travel Documentation: Expenses related to obtaining required travel documents, such as passports, if you don’t already have them, are not typically included.
Any Other Personal Items: Any items or services not explicitly mentioned in the package itinerary or inclusion list are likely not covered.
It’s important to carefully read the terms and conditions of the package you’re considering and to communicate with the tour operator or travel agency to clarify any doubts or questions you may have about what is and isn’t included. This will help you plan your trip and budget more effectively.
