Luxury Train
Exploring India on a luxury train has become extremely popular. It's an excellent way to see the country without having to compromise on comfort. These luxury tourist trains, offer every indulgence imaginable right down to customized cutlery, the trains inject glamour and romance into seeing some of India's best tourist attractions. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways and Cox and Kings India Ltd. have joined hands to present the finest in the world of luxury travel -“The Maharaja Expressâ€. This train is the latest addition to the already impressive array of luxury trains in India.
Maharaja Express
The Maharaja Express, commenced operation in March 2010. As one steps on board, one finds oneself transported back in time, embarking a voyage of a lifetime. The train travels through the night to different locations, leaving the day to explore them.
The train has a total of 23 coaches, there are five deluxe carriages, six junior suite carriages, two suite carriages, and one presidential suite exclusively in one carriage. The train also has two restaurants, one bar and an observation lounge with its own bar, game tables and comfortable club.
Other unique aspects of the train includes a state of the art suspension system for a smooth ride, temperature control in the passenger cabins, environment friendly toilet system and direct dial telephones in each cabin. The cabins also have large windows which give glimpses of India and has facilities like LCD televisions, DVD players, internet etc.
The distinguishing feature of this luxury train is that it travels across states. Its two routes run in both directions from Mumbai to Delhi (via Rajasthan), and Delhi to Kolkata (via Kharjuraho temples and Varanasi). Maharaja Express has four tour packages, namely Princely India (8 days/7 nights), Royal India (7 days/6 nights), Classical India (7 days/6 nights) and Celestial India (8 days/7 nights).
Princely India Tour
Princely India offers a truly spectacular journey through Western India and to the legendary Taj Mahal. Discovering timeless traditions and exotic locales. One sees the vibrant, bustling city of Mumbai, the imperial monuments of Delhi, the immortal beauty of the Taj Mahal, the tigers at Ranthambore, Amber Fort and explores the shimmering Lake City of Udaipur.
Royal India Tour
Royal India, here the Maharaja Express embarks on an extraordinary voyage through Imperial India. The Taj Mahal; Ranthambore, Gujarat and finally Mumbai. This extraordinary journey leaves one with everlasting memories of an ancient land epitomizing a mesmerizing and unique mix of cultures.
Classical India Tour
Classical India, one of the most popular journeys, takes one on a sojourn exploring the hidden treasures of India. The unforgettable escapade starts with the capital city of Delhi. On its way it explores the glorious past of Gwalior, the sacred city of Varanasi, the temples of Khajuraho, the pilgrimage centre of Gaya and the magnificent wilderness of the Bandhavgarh National Park. The journey ends in the heart of the East, Kolkata.
Celestial India Tour
Celestial India takes one through India's most fascinating sights and architectural creations. Gaya, a centre for Hindu pilgrims, a boat ride on the Ganges River in Varanasi, wildlife in Bandhavgarh, Khajuraho, Agra, historical wonders of Gwalior and Delhi.
The experience on the luxury train across the country is true essence of the rich and diverse land called India. (PIB Features)
The Maharaja Express - a Royal Image
Harish Kunwar - 2010-04-17 09:02
Since, 1844, the Indian Railways has had a rich evolution. In 1853, the first passenger train service was inaugurated between Bombay and Thane. The year following that witnessed Lord Dalhousie, the Governor General of India, formulating a plan to have a network of trunk lines connecting the principal regions of India. Today, the Indian Railway stands as one of the largest and busiest rail networks in the World, catering to over 18 million passengers and carrying more than 2 million tonnes of freight daily, it traverses the length and breadth of the country - a gigantic route of more than 64,000 kms. With a workforce of 1.4 million, it is the single largest employer in the World.