8-9 thousand euros, and you can feel like an aristocrat.
Heritage, culture, cuisine, and wildlife: the best luxury train journeys in India to embark on in 2026.
India boasts one of the most diverse cultural and natural landscapes in the world, from the majestic forts of Rajasthan to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala and the lush tiger reserves of Madhya Pradesh.
However, planning a trip to the country can be challenging due to its vastness and the diversity of regions and languages.
What better way to experience this multilayered country than through a leisurely, deeply immersive train journey that traverses several different regions of India? Here is a selection of the best Indian luxury train tours for 2026, combining culture, history, and adventure.
Heritage: Forts and Palaces on the Maharajas Express
The Heritage of India route offered by the Maharajas Express is rightly considered the pinnacle of luxury train travel in India. Over seven days and six nights, this journey of more than 1,380 km travels from Mumbai to Delhi, covering the most famous attractions of North India in Rajasthan and beyond.
The itinerary includes stops in Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Ranthambore, Fatehpur Sikri, and Agra. Guests have accommodation options: deluxe cabin, junior suite, suite, or presidential suite, with choices of twin or double beds. The train features private bathrooms, butler services, media services for streaming, Wi-Fi, a personal attendant, and much more.
Passengers in the presidential suite also receive an exclusive local language guide and a luxury vehicle for excursions outside the train.
Guests can enjoy two themed restaurants: Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal, offering exquisite cuisine. After dinner, passengers can relax in the Safari Bar or Raja Club, where complimentary spirits, house wines, and beers are served.
The price includes several excursions off the train; perhaps the most special is the visit to the Taj Mahal and a champagne breakfast at Taj Khema.
In Udaipur, passengers can take a boat ride on the serene Lake Pichola and visit the Crystal Gallery and the City Palace. In Jodhpur, guests can choose a walking tour of the market near the Old Clock Tower, then take a tuk-tuk ride and end the evening with a cocktail dinner at Khaas Bagh or Hanwant Mahal.
You can also visit the Royal Observatory (Jantar Mantar) in Jaipur or attend an elephant polo match. Animal lovers will appreciate exploring Ranthambore National Park, including a wildlife safari.
Prices start from €7,076 per person in a deluxe cabin.
Cultural Odyssey: Vineyards, Coastal Cities, and Heritage with Style
For a vibrant and memorable introduction to North and Central India, choose the Cultural Odyssey route operated by Deccan Odyssey.
Embark on a luxurious journey of eight days and seven nights to see key spiritual and historical monuments of the region, combining wildlife, unique architecture, and cultural immersion. This circular route from Delhi includes stops in Sawai Madhopur, Jaipur, Agra, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Orchha, and Varanasi, after which the train returns to Delhi.
Passengers have spacious cabins available, such as deluxe and presidential suites, with single and double occupancy options and private bathrooms. Amenities include a 24-hour personal assistant, onboard spa, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, conference car, and concierge services.
Guests will enjoy exquisite cuisine in two restaurants with a multicultural menu — Utsav and Waavar, where master chefs prepare Eastern, Indian, and continental dishes. There is a bar car and lounge with a wide selection of beverages.
In addition to the onboard spa area, the train features a mini-gym, library, and board games, as well as cultural performances and lectures.
Among the off-train activities are excursions to Delhi's landmarks: India Gate, Jama Masjid, and the Red Fort. Morning and daytime safaris in Ranthambore National Park are specifically focused on Bengal tigers, leopards, and sambar deer.
In Jaipur, travelers can explore Amer Fort and numerous bazaars, while Gwalior offers abandoned palaces. Wander through hidden temples in Orchha, an underrated gem on the Betwa River.
Travelers will also discover Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its impressive medieval Jain and Hindu temples known for their detailed sculptures.
Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, offers a unique spiritual atmosphere where travelers can enjoy serene boat rides, bustling bazaars, and ancient ghats.
The cost of the Cultural Odyssey starts from €8,044.8 per person for single occupancy in a deluxe cabin.
Indian Odyssey: Scenic Diversity and Vibrant Western India
To explore the rapidly developing destinations of Western India, choose the Indian Odyssey route. This is another popular route from Deccan Odyssey: eight days and seven nights of travel from Delhi to Mumbai.
The first stops, such as Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambore, Agra, and Jaipur, coincide with the Cultural Odyssey route, but this tour also includes Udaipur, Vadodara, and Aurangabad.
Cabin options and other amenities on this route are the same as in the Cultural Odyssey. In Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," travelers can visit the largest palace complex in Rajasthan — the City Palace. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Pichola, reaching Jagmandir Palace for lunch. After lunch, a walking tour will guide guests through the winding streets of the Old City.
In Vadodara, visit the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes the iconic Jama Masjid. High tea and a cultural program at the Lakshmi Vilas Palace will conclude a memorable evening.
In Aurangabad, Maharashtra, a scenic trip leads travelers to the Ellora Caves, another UNESCO site, featuring rock-cut shrines representing Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu art.
As with the Cultural Odyssey, prices for the Indian Odyssey also start from €8,044.8 per person for single occupancy in a deluxe cabin.
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