There’s no better way to experience the romance of India’s railways than an exotic, old-world journey on board the luxurious Maharajas’ Express.

The handsome gold and burgundy train is as grand as they come, with sumptuous interiors including two exquisitely furnished dining carriages, two bar cars, a lounge and cabins with ensuite bathrooms. Guests are treated like royalty – did we mention that each carriage comes with a personal butler?

Departing from Delhi, the ‘Indian Splendour’ itinerary takes the form of a stately sojourn across ‘The Land of the Kings’. The northwestern state of Rajasthan is famous for its temples, fairy-tale palaces and historic hilltop forts. The Maharajas’ Express stops at some of the country’s most captivating cities, before sweeping south towards Mumbai.

The opulent 8-day odyssey begins by the banks of Agra’s River Yamuna as the ivory-white Taj Mahal is illuminated by the golden morning light. The 17^th Century mausoleum is a true monument to true love, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

On this schedule passengers are treated to a succession of experiences fit for a king; such as a champagne breakfast overlooking the Taj Mahal, a tiger-spotting jeep safari in Ranthambore National Park, lunch with the royal family of Balasinor and a sunset camel ride across the rolling sands of the Thar Desert.

Known as the gateway of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the epicenture of colour, culture and craftsmanship. The ‘Pink City’, famous for its dusty pink colour palette, is a guaranteed high point on this whirlwind passage through India. The Hawa Mahal (‘The Palace of the Winds’) is one of Jaipur’s most treasured sights.

Passengers on board the Maharajas’ Express are invited to a private dinner at Jaipur’s City Palace, where they are warmly welcomed by an unforgettable spectacle of dancers, musicians and a parade of elephants. Invitees of the royal family have a chance to explore exclusive sections of the palace.

There’s a tour of the lavish private rooms; some are bedecked in gemstones and glasswork, whilst others such as the the sapphire-blue Chhavi Niwas are brightly painted.

The pageantry continues the following day as guests traverse the sand dunes in a convoy of camel-drawn carts. As the sun sets across the desert, a sizzling barbeque dinner is served. Local folk musicians entertain well into the evening as the mesmerising Kalbelia dance is performed by traditional tribal dancers.

The indigo-washed sprawl of Jodhpur is another highlight on the incredible itinerary. Views from the ramparts of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort stretch across a jumble of blue-hued buildings. Guests are then treated to an auto rickshaw tour through the medieval streets, before winding through the vibrant bazaar on foot. It’s a riot of colour with markets brimming with Rajasthani handicrafts, as well as stalls piled-high with fruits, vegetables and spices.

The next stop is India’s most romantic locale, Udaipur, otherwise known as the
‘Venice of the East’. In this city, fantastical marble palaces seemingly float on the
shimmering Lake Pichola.

The visit to Udaipur begins with a boat ride across the lake to Jagmandir Island,
which boasts views of the honey-hued City Palace that hugs the shoreline, as well
as the fabled Lake Palace with a backdrop of the Aravalli Mountains.

Udaipur’s City Palace is an unmissable experience. Like something straight out
of a fairytale, the imposing palace stands proudly on the banks of Lake Pichola.
There’s a private tour of the sprawling structure, through the labyrinthine
network of stairwells, corridors and courtyards.

The array of spice-scented Indian cuisine served on the train is one of the perks
of travelling onboard the Maharajas’ Express. From sophisticated breakfast
spreads (baskets of freshly baked pastries, fruit, egg cooked-to-order and
rotating local dishes) to lavish three-course meals. There are two beautifully
designed dining cars (both offer the same menu). The Rang Mahal (‘Palace of
Colours’) has a gold floral motif and hand-painted fresco ceiling.

Meanwhile, Mayur Mahal (‘Peacock Palace’) is a marvel of mirrored-mosaics and
an elegant turquoise colour scheme. It feels like a restaurant-on-wheels; expect
finery to match, such as Limoge plates with gold edges and crystal glassware.

Chef John Stone has run the tiny kitchen on board the Maharajas’ Express for eight years, so he knows how to please the passengers. Those wanting to stick to familiar flavours order from an à la carte continental menu. But it’s the thali-style meal that’s sure to satisfy the tastebuds and each day there is a thali with specialties from a different region of India. Thalis are presented on elaborate metal trays, typically heaped with rice and roti, and surrounded by a selection of dishes (everything from spicy curries, creamy daals to pickled vegetables) served in small katori bowls.

There are two bar cars onboard the Maharaja’s Express; the Safari Bar and the ‘Rajah Club’. Passengers can unwind after a day of sightseeing with a G&T in hand, watching the rich Rajasthani scenery unfold as the train meanders along the the tracks bound for Mumbai.