Luxury Trains in India: Ride in Style Across the Country

When you think of train travel in India, you might picture crowded coaches and long waits—but luxury trains in India, high-end rail experiences that blend royal heritage with modern comfort. Also known as palace trains, these are not just transportation—they’re mobile five-star hotels rolling through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Forget bus rides and flight delays. These trains let you wake up to the Aravalli Hills, sip chai as the Taj Mahal glows in the morning light, and dine on multi-course meals served by white-gloved staff—all without packing or unpacking.

There are just a handful of these trains, but each tells a different story. The Palace on Wheels, India’s first luxury train, launched in 1982 to showcase royal Rajasthan. Also known as Rajasthan royal train, it follows a 7-night circuit through Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur, with guided temple tours and elephant-back safaris built right into the itinerary. Then there’s the Maharajas' Express, the most expensive and opulent train in Asia, with private suites, butler service, and curated excursions to UNESCO sites. It’s the train you book when you want to feel like a modern-day maharaja, complete with vintage decor, crystal glassware, and a wine list that rivals any five-star hotel. And if you’re drawn to the south, the Deccan Odyssey, a luxury train that explores Maharashtra and Goa with beachside stops and heritage walks in Pune. Also known as South India luxury rail, it’s the only one that takes you from the bustling streets of Mumbai to quiet Goan beaches without switching vehicles. These aren’t just trains—they’re immersive cultural journeys wrapped in brass, teak, and silk.

What makes them worth the price? It’s not just the plush bedding or the gourmet meals. It’s the access. You get VIP entry to forts closed to regular tourists, private performances of classical dance, and local guides who know hidden courtyards and secret viewpoints. No lines. No crowds. Just you, your private cabin, and a country unfolding outside your window.

These luxury trains don’t run every day. They operate in short seasons, often booked months in advance. But if you’ve ever dreamed of seeing India from a different angle—slow, elegant, and deeply personal—this is it. Below, you’ll find real travel stories, insider tips, and honest reviews from people who’ve ridden these rails. Whether you’re planning your first luxury trip or just curious how it feels to travel like royalty, the posts here will show you what’s real, what’s overhyped, and where to find the best value.