In India, trains are not only a mode of transporting goods, they are also an incredibly beautiful way to explore the uncharted lands in individual levels. After British rule, Indian trains were given a luxurious look for those who enjoy traveling with stately demeanor. Luxury trains are India’s asset as they contribute around 20% of the total revenue of Indian Railways.
India has five luxury trains that are famous for their elegant and attractive interior, traditional Indian hospitality and exquisite dining services. The trains were designed to provide a stylish journey for passengers who come from all over the world to explore India and its scenic beauty.
- Palace on wheels: It is the oldest luxury train in India. It was first introduced in 1982 after being temporarily closed in 1947. The train is unique in the world. It offers 14 luxury lounges that are equipped with 4 cabins that provide bathroom and shower facilities, attached toilet, and leisure facilities such as children’s games, intercom, and more. The interior of the halls is decorated with cozy furniture, handicrafts and paintings. In addition to the 14 lounges, the Palace on Wheels also has two restaurants with kitchens offering traditional Indian, Rajasthani, Continental and Chinese cuisine. The Palace on Wheels covers nine destinations during its eight-day journey. Famous destinations covered by the train include Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambore National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Bharatpur and Agra.
- Deccan Odyssey: The train is the rookie in the list of luxury trains in India. It was launched in 2002 and is famous as Palace on Wheels of Maharashtra. The train has 13 air-conditioned deluxe lounges, each with a combination of 4 twin-bedded rooms. The halls are fully equipped with intercom, music channel and other entertainment facilities. It offers special facilities for people with physical disabilities. Wheelchairs, nurseries and a special assistant are some of the facilities offered to them. Special attention has also been paid to the safety of passengers and their luggage. During the eight-day Deccan Odyssey voyage, passengers are mesmerized by the beauty of Mumbai, Ratnagiri, Jaigadh, Ganapatipule, Bhatye Beach, Goa, Sindhudurg, Tarkarli, Sawantwadi, Pune, Aurangabad, Ajanta to Nasik, respectively, as the train moves on. on your journey.
- Royal Rajasthan on wheels: The train was launched in 2009. It offers Super Deluxe Saloon, the Bravura Suite and Deluxe Saloon, the Extraordinary Suite to its passengers. The Bravura Suite has been made with fine velvet and silk bedspreads and curtains and the Extraordinary Suite has been thematically designed with mixed textures and color schemes to enhance its splendor. The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels travels for eight days covering hot destinations of Jaipur, Khajuraho, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Varanasi, Chittorgarh and Agra. During the journey, passengers are served a delicious meal at two of the train’s famous restaurants, Sheesh Mahal and Swarn Mahal. The Sheesh Mahal has been adorned with sparkling crystal borders and floor lamps, while the Swarn Mahal is inspired by gold and brass. It has Spa and bar and lounge as well.
- golden chariot: The train was launched in 2008 for tourists interested in exploring the southern regions of India. The train is also famous as the Pride of the South. Passengers’ stay is made comfortable in Golden Chariot thanks to eleven luxuriously furnished air-conditioned lounges with 4 bedrooms or cabins. Facilities such as restaurant cars, a lounge bar, business center, mini gym and Ayurvedic spa are also offered to passengers. A small cloakroom, a dressing table, LCD televisions and a private bathroom with first-class facilities are other features of the train that make the passenger’s stay comfortable. Travel for eight days starting your journey from Bangalore to Mysore, Jain Monolith and Hosalya Temple Architecture, Hampi Temples and Vijayanagara Palace, Badami Caves and Pattadakal Temples, Goa and then back to Bangalore.
- Fairy Queen: The train holds a Guinness World Record for having a single locomotive. Built in 1855, it offers a single AC chair coach, which can accommodate a maximum of 50 tourists. For the privileged passengers there is also a pantry car attached. Fairy Queen takes her passengers on a fascinating journey over two days. The journey starts from the Delhi Cantonment Railway Station and takes you to the majestic land of Rajasthan.
Traveling can be both a good and a bad experience. But having a ticket to any of India’s luxury trains could add fun to your journey. After all, traveling on luxury trains is about safe and healthy travel.