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🛤️ An Honest Review of the Maharajas’ Express: Luxury Train Travel Through India for U.S. Travelers
As an American who recently returned from the eight-day Maharajas’ Express Heritage of India route, I want to offer a detailed, honest review of this iconic Indian luxury train. With a total spend of over $12,000 for two, including flights, visas, and accommodations, I’ll break down whether the Maharajas’ Express is worth the cost—and what fellow U.S. travelers should expect onboard.
🧳 First Impressions: The Royal Welcome in Mumbai
Our journey began at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus with a traditional Indian welcome—garlands, refreshments, and uniformed staff who quickly made it clear: this wasn’t just travel—it was an experience.
The train’s crimson-red exterior gleamed with gold accents. Inside, ornate carpeting, rich wood finishes, and personalized service created a setting that felt more like a floating palace than a train.
🚪 Cabin Experience: Deluxe Cabins vs Presidential Suite
We opted for a Deluxe Cabin, which offered a cozy yet sophisticated 96 sq. ft. space with twin beds, ensuite bath, a personal safe, A/C, and even satellite TV.
Deluxe Cabin Highlights:
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Adjustable twin or queen beds
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Clean, compact bathroom with consistent hot water
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Responsive daily housekeeping and turndown service
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Plenty of outlets and lighting for comfort
We toured the Presidential Suite, which spans over 190 sq. ft. with a private living room, two bedrooms, and lavish touches throughout. However, it came at a $5,000–$6,000 premium per passenger. Unless maximum luxury is your goal, Deluxe or Junior Suites deliver excellent value.
🍽️ Dining on the Maharajas’ Express: A Culinary Voyage Through India
One of the trip’s highlights was mealtime—with rotating menus inspired by regional cuisines. From buttery parathas in Rajasthan to Goan prawn curry, each dish was carefully crafted, elegantly presented, and served in ornate dining cars.
Breakfast featured fresh fruits, eggs made-to-order, and authentic Indian options. Lunches and dinners included three-course meals with vegetarian and non-veg options. The wine list offered Indian and imported wines, though premium bottles incurred extra costs.
🛋️ Onboard Amenities: Relaxation Meets Regal Comfort
The train featured:
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A lounge car with leather chairs, newspapers, and cocktails
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A spa car offering massages and facials (not included in base fare)
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WiFi access (usable in major city stations only)
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A small souvenir boutique and curated book selection
While not necessary for everyone, the spa car provided a welcome break after long days of sightseeing.
🧑🍳 Service Excellence: Personal Attendants and Hospitality
Each cabin includes a dedicated butler available 24/7. Ours not only handled our bags but also remembered our morning tea preferences, excursion timing, and even helped coordinate laundry.
Every staff member—from waiters to managers—spoke fluent English and offered warm, thoughtful service that felt genuinely caring, not rehearsed.
💵 Cost Breakdown for U.S. Travelers: Is It Worth the Price?
| Expense | Per Person Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Maharajas’ Express Deluxe Cabin | $7,560 (peak) |
| Roundtrip Flights (Chicago – India) | $1,200 – $2,800 |
| Indian Visa + Service Fees | $50 – $80 |
| Pre/Post-Hotel (3 nights total) | $600 – $1,000 |
| Shopping & Souvenirs | $500 – $2,000+ |
| Tipping (staff & guides) | $200 – $400 |
| Travel Insurance | $150 – $300 |
| Total Per Couple | $10,000 – $18,000+ |
Is it expensive? Yes. Is it worth it? For those seeking a truly seamless, culturally immersive, and uniquely luxurious way to see India—absolutely.
🕌 Sightseeing & Cultural Highlights: More Than Just Scenic Views
Each stop included expert-guided tours in Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Agra, and Ranthambore (safari included!). These were far from surface-level excursions—we explored forts, palaces, markets, and even experienced live folk performances.
Key highlights:
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Taj Mahal at sunrise and sunset
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Wildlife safari in Ranthambore (we spotted a tiger!)
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Camel carts in Bikaner
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Traditional Kathak dance performance in Jaipur
Transportation was in air-conditioned coaches, and bottled water/snacks were always provided.
🔍 Comparing Expectations vs Reality
I had done plenty of research before booking, and I’m happy to report that the Maharajas’ Express met and exceeded expectations. However, Americans should know:
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Cabins are compact, especially if you’re used to U.S. hotel rooms
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WiFi is sporadic—disconnect and embrace it
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Meals are rich and flavorful but may be spiced for Indian palates
Still, the comfort, attention to detail, and curated experiences more than justify the cost.
🇺🇸 Final Verdict: Should American Travelers Book the Maharajas’ Express?
If you’re the kind of traveler who values all-inclusive planning, personalized service, and cultural immersion, this train is for you. It removes every logistical challenge and replaces it with elegance, structure, and joy.
💡 Tips for American Travelers
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Book 6+ months ahead for best cabin choice and airfare rates
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Choose shoulder season (April or September) for savings and mild weather
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Bring light formalwear for dinner, and comfy shoes for day tours
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Purchase travel insurance covering cancellations and emergencies
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Budget an extra $1,000–$2,000 for souvenirs and tipping
