Your Railway Guide | July 19, 2025
If you’ve ever dreamed of living like a king or queen, India’s most luxurious trains promise exactly that and more. With interiors rivaling royal palaces, gourmet dining, spa services, and personalized hospitality, these trains offer not just a mode of transport, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
From traversing the golden deserts of Rajasthan to gliding through the green landscapes of the Deccan, these luxury trains showcase India’s opulence, heritage, and diverse geography in the grandest way possible. Here’s a look at the top 5 luxury trains in India, often hailed among the most expensive and luxurious in the world.
Top 5 Luxury Trains In India: Key Details
1. The Deccan Odyssey – A Moving Palace of Blue Elegance
Nicknamed the “Blue Limousine on Rails”, The Deccan Odyssey is a Taj Group-managed luxury train that reflects the magnificence of 16th-century Maharajas. With opulently decorated cabins, multi-cuisine restaurants, a wellness spa, and a regal ambiance, the train is a 5-star hotel on wheels.
- Start Points: Mumbai, Delhi
- Highlights: Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Goa, Rajasthan, Gujarat
- Luxury Factor: Presidential-style cabins, on-board spa, gourmet dining
Also Read: Udaipur Chandigarh Express Announced
2. Maharajas’ Express – The Most Luxurious Train in India
Awarded the title of “World’s Leading Luxury Train” for 6 consecutive years, the Maharajas’ Express is a benchmark in global train luxury. With eight lavish itineraries that cover heritage sites, royal palaces, and cultural landmarks, it offers private lounges, luxurious bedrooms, and even a presidential suite with amenities comparable to the finest five-star hotels.
- Runs: Multiple routes across India
- Luxury Factor: Presidential Suite, fine dining, private butlers
- Recognition: Consistently ranked among the most expensive trains in India
3. The Golden Chariot – Heritage Through South India
Operated by the Karnataka Tourism Department, The Golden Chariot takes you through the ancient wonders of South India. With cabins named after historical dynasties and interiors styled in Mysorean architecture, this train is a heritage masterpiece.
- Routes: Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu
- Amenities: Ayurveda spa, in-cabin dining, royal lounges
- Luxury Factor: Historical elegance meets modern comfort
4. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels – Rajput Grandeur on Rails
True to its name, the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels offers a royal welcome and a deep dive into the majestic culture of Rajasthan. From red carpet greetings to cabins adorned with Rajasthani artwork, every aspect of this train reflects regal hospitality.
- Route: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Khajuraho
- Luxury Factor: Palace-like cabins, curated regional cuisine, and royal treatment
- Cultural Immersion: Rajput history and architecture
5. Palace on Wheels – India’s First Luxury Heritage Train
Launched by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, the Palace on Wheels is a pioneer in luxury rail tourism. Once used by the Nizams and Rajput kings, it now offers travelers a nostalgic ride through India’s royal past.
- Route: Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bharatpur, Agra
- Luxury Factor: Refurbished heritage carriages, royal interiors, gourmet food
- Legacy: Known as India’s original royal train experience
Final Words
These trains are not just about travel; they’re about experiencing India’s royal heritage in motion. Whether you’re a luxury seeker, a heritage enthusiast, or a curious traveler, these journeys deliver unmatched opulence and comfort, earning them their place among India’s most expensive and luxurious trains.