Frequently Asked Questions

• Any tour or visit not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Taxes, insurance, and gratuities.
• Telephone calls, laundry, and alcoholic beverages (except for house brands of wines, spirits, and beers served in the restaurants and bars).
• Video, film, and professional camera fees.
• Arrival and departure transfers.
• Domestic and international airfare.

Maharajas’ Express operate from September to April every year.

70% to 80% of off-train excursions involve walking tours, therefore it is advised to pack comfortable walking shoes.

It is important to note that some excursions may involve walks on uneven, rocky, or steep terrain.

During off-train excursions, you will be accompanied by professional English-speaking guides. If you require a guide in another language, please inform us at the time of booking.

Transportation for off-train excursions at each destination is included free of charge. Passengers in Deluxe Cabins and Junior Suites will enjoy sightseeing in luxury coaches, while guests in Suites and Presidential Suites will have access to private vehicles.

All vehicles are equipped with complimentary kits, including candies, shoe covers, tissues, and other items for added comfort.

At certain locations such as Ranthambore during jungle Safari, Jeeps/Canters will be provided to guests including the Presidential Suite and Suite category guests.

At Orchha there is a small auto ride from Jahangir Mahal to the Railway Station.

All Maharajas’ Express crew members are well-informed and have a good command of English for communication.

During the off- train excursions, you will be accompanied by professional English- speaking guides. If there is any special requirement of a language speaking guide, kindly inform us at the time of booking.

All Maharajas’ Express staff members are highly trained to meet the various needs of guests. They are also well-informed and have a good command of English for effective communication.

All guests on board can contact the train manager for any special requests, inquiries, or concerns. The manager is available 24/7 to assist with any needs or questions passengers may have.

Each passenger carriage on the train is assigned a personal butler, available 24 hours a day, ensuring exclusive and dedicated service for guests.

If you are allergic to certain foods, or require vegetarian or other meals, just give written notice at the time of booking. We will ensure that meals are tailored to your preferences and needs.

Breakfast is served on board and includes both table service and a varied buffet, all prepared with high-quality ingredients. Lunch and dinner are a combination of onboard meals and dining at first-class restaurants.

Aboard the Maharajas’ Express, you can indulge in two exclusive fine dining restaurants: “Mayur Mahal”, inspired by the peacock, India’s national bird, and “Rang Mahal”, the “Palace of Colors,” adorned with hand-painted frescoes. Both restaurants accommodate up to 42 guests and offer seating arrangements for both intimate dining experiences and social gatherings. The train’s expert chefs delight guests with a curated selection of Indian and international dishes, complemented by a handpicked selection of exquisite wines.

Summer: lightweight cotton and linens.
Winter: lightweight to heavy woolens, shawls, and cotton.
Wildlife safari: Earth- shaded, light clothes and wraps. Avoid bright colors.
On board: Smart casuals, suitable walking shoes, and nightwear. Don’t forget to carry sunscreens, caps/hats, and comfortable footwear.

We request that the guests should carry baggage as per the standards that are set by the international airlines. Because of limited storage space, it is recommended that you should carry soft topped luggage.

Luggage can be stored under the bed and in the cabin wardrobes. The storage capacity under the twin bed is 915 mm x 690 mm x 330 mm, while the space under the double bed is 1370 mm x 940 mm x 330 mm.

If necessary, luggage can also be stored in a separate cabin. It is recommended to lock your luggage for added security.

Porters will be available at all embarkation and disembarkation stations to assist you with your luggage.

The bed and bath linen is changed everyday. 

It is not advisable to book flights or any other means of transport for the same day the journey begins or ends, in case of unforeseen events. We recommend arriving the day before and leaving the day after the trip.

Pets are not allowed on board, except for guide dogs who for obvious reasons must accompany their owner.

Unfortunately, the Maharajas’ Express does not have facilities adapted for passengers with disabilities. Due to the dimensions of the carriages and design of the train, it is not suitable for wheelchair bound passengers. It is recommended that guests with reduced mobility travel accompanied by someone who can assist them during the journey, as there is no designated staff for this purpose.

To ensure optimal rest, the train will remain stationary at the station overnight and will resume its journey in the morning on most nights. However, depending on the reserved itinerary, the train may operate overnight journeys to reach the next destination.

When passengers disembark from the train, it continues its journey for refueling and water replenishment. Therefore, it is recommended to follow the scheduled timetable.

If you wish to return earlier or stay longer at a destination, you can contact the train manager. Guests will be informed about the train’s availability after a quick verification.

The Maharajas’ Express features 43 elegant cabins, that include 20 deluxe cabins, 18 junior suites, 4 suites, and 1 presidential suite, with a capacity of up to 88 passengers per journey.

Accommodation options include twin cabins (two single beds) and double cabins (double bed). Each cabin can accommodate 2 passengers, except for the presidential suite, which can accommodate a maximum of 4 passengers.

There is no obligation to tip staff. Any amount to be given towards gratuities for all the staff onboard is completely at the guests’ discretion.

In case of a medical emergency, a paramedic is available on board.

Maharajas’ Express provides on board laundry service at selected destinations. To avail this service, kindly contact your carriage butler.

Telephone facility is provided in all cabins. The cost for all external calls is additional and not included in the cost of the journey.

All credit cards, Master Cards, Visa, and Amex are accepted on board. Surcharges are to be applied on all the transactions made using credit or debit cards.

India’s currency is the Rupee, abbreviated as Rs. which is divided into 100 paisa. The Rupee notes come in denominations of Rs.5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, & Rs.2000. Coins are in denominations of rupee 1, 2, 5 and 10.
Please, contact the train Manager to avail currency exchange facility on board.

Yes, the Maharajas’ Express allows children on the journey. The fares will depend on the child’s age and the type of cabin chosen.

The train offers high-speed internet access on board. However, the signal may vary while the train is in motion, significantly improving when the train is stationary.

The required documentation for traveling on the train is the same as that needed to enter India from your country of origin.

The voltage available on board is 110/220 volts. Additionally, international adapters are provided for passengers.

The trains have security services and safes on board. The stations where the train stops are equipped with surveillance systems.