Gems of India By Train

Welcome aboard the Maharajas’ Express. This evening, we’ll assemble at Delhi Safdarjung station and complete our check in for the Maharajas’ Express, all while enjoying live music and a refreshing welcome drink. We’ll take dinner on board as the Maharajas’ Express departs for Agra. Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

Arrive into Agra – the Jewel of India. Early this morning, disembark to visit the world famous Taj Mahal (one of the Seven Wonders of the World), built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz Mahal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this incomparable marvel is constructed entirely of white marble and is an architectural masterpiece replete with inlay work and delicate pierced screens. Later, you’ll enjoy a champagne breakfast at Taj Khema, overlooking the magnificent Taj! Following breakfast, you might return to the train, or you may choose to take an optional tour to the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, the Fatehpur Sikri mosque or perhaps a private shopping tour. Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities. Return to the train for lunch. After a leisurely lunch onboard, visit the Agra Fort, or choose from one of the optional activities like spa facilities at a five-star hotel, a private shopping tour, a visit to the Fatehpur Sikri Mosque or take in the “Mohabbat the Taj” live show. Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities. Return to the comfort of the train and continue your journey to Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore). Breakfast at Taj Khema; Lunch and Dinner on board. Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

On arrival into Sawai Madhopur, early in the morning, get ready for an exciting safari to the ‘Ranthambore National Park’. Originally the private hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur, Ranthambore was declared a National Park in 1973. The Park is famous for its open sightings of tigers, sambar, chital, nilgai, chinkara, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, jackal and leopard. This safari cannot be compared to those of Africa — you are indeed fortunate if you spot the elusive tiger or the shy leopard. This morning’s game drive is quite exciting… the safari is carried out in open vehicles and the ride is rather bumpy. One must carry adequate warm clothes in winter months. On our return to the train, enjoy a relaxed breakfast and unwind over lunch as your journey continues to Jaipur. Jaipur, the capital and the largest city of Rajasthan was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber in the 18th century. It is renowned for its magnificent palaces, forts, temples, jewellery and distinctive blue pottery. After lunch we’ll visit the Amber Fort. The Amber Fort, set in picturesque, rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh, the fort was made in red sand stone and white marble. The forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise — a beautiful fusion of art and architecture. A short jeep ride takes you up to the fort where you will enjoy a tour of the royal apartments and striking views of the gorge. Step back into the Mughal era as you enter the Chamber of Mirrors (Sheesh Mahal), and the Hall of Victor. Alternatively, you may choose to participate in one of the optional tours…. Enjoy spa facilities at a five-star hotel, take on a private shopping tour or visit the City Palace Museum and Jantar Mantar, a fascinating astronomical observatory. Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities. Tonight, you’re in for an exclusive royal experience. Your arrival at the venue will be accompanied by a band and the beating of ‘Nagadas’ (huge Indian drums). You’ll have an opportunity to indulge with elephants – paint them, feed them or opt for a joy ride. Later, enjoy a cocktail dinner over sparkling wine and witness the native folk dances of Rajasthan. Following dinner, we’ll return to the station and reboard the train for the return journey to Delhi. Breakfast and Lunch onboard; Dinner at an exclusive venue (City Palace or Jai Mahal Palace). Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express.

Breakfast will be served as you arrive into Delhi. At 0830 hours, Maharajas’ Express arrives into Delhi Safdurjung Railway Station where we’ll disembark and bid farewell as our journey comes to an end.