Princely India tour of Maharajas Express departs every
Saturday from Chhatrapati Shivajii Terminus of Mumbai. You will be
experiencing a truly spectacular journey through Western India to the forts,
palaces and wildlife of Rajasthan to the world famous Taj Mahal in Agra. It
will be an amazing experience to explore the culture, tradition and vast
diversity of India.
Day 01 / Saturday : Board The Maharajas - Express in Mumbai - Onto
Vadodara
Welcome
aboard the Maharajas' Express.
This evening, assemble and complete your registration and check in
formalities at the hotel for the Maharajas' Express. Following tea, you will
proceed to the Station. On arrival you will board the Maharajas' Express and
will be greeted with a welcome drink.
The Maharajas' Express departs Mumbai in the evening and travels from the
land of the Marathas to Gujarat.
Dinner on board
Overnight on the Maharajas' Express.
Day 02 / Sunday : Vadodara
Today you arrive into the Royal city of the Gaekwads, Vadodara situated on
the famous River Vishwamitri. Enjoy a relaxed morning on board the train,
following a leisurely breakfast.
Later, following disembarkation, you will be driven in a convoy of cars
through some of the picturesque countryside to the quaint hamlet of
Jambhughoda. On arrival participate in the traditional welcome and fanfare
of the feudal lords of Jambhughoda, where you relish their royal cuisine,
typical only to their family. You have an opportunity to interact with the
family members and catch a glimpse of their royal past.
Following a sumptuous lunch, return to Vadodara, enroute enjoy a brief stop
at the famous World Heritage site of Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park,
an ancient town full of ruins scattered over the foothills of Pavagadh. The
Pavagadh hill is one of the oldest rock formations in India. Visit the
magnificent Jami Masjid, an architectural marvel built in 1513 with tall
minarets and minutely carved gates.
For guests who wish to return, after lunch, to the train for a brief
rest, may do so and may later join a splendid supper hosted by the Laxmi
Vilas Palace.
On arrival in the city, proceed on a visit to the Maharaja Fateh Singh
Museum. A must for every art lover, it exhibits a royal collection of work
by the important 19th century painter Raja Ravi Verma. It also displays 19th
and 20th centuries European paintings of old masters like Raphael, Titian
and Murillo.
Enjoy 'Supper' at the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace. Designed in
Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, the palace built by Maharaja Sayajirao
III in 1890 is the residence of the Royal family. Witness the grandeur of
its ornate Durbar Hall, the Venetian mosaic floor, Belgium stained glass
windows and sculptures of bronze and marble by Fellici. Witness a lovely
folk dance performance, typical to the Royal House as you savour a wide
array of delicacies from the Royal kitchens.
Return to the station and board the train for your onward journey.
Breakfast on board; Lunch at Jambhughoda; Supper at Laxmi Vilas Palace.
Overnight on the Maharajas' Express.
Day 03 / Monday : Udaipur
This morning you will wake up in the picturesque region of Mewar, one of
the most popular and royal states of the Rajputana. Enjoy a leisurely
breakfast and admire the magnificent landscape of the Aravali Hills arriving
into Udaipur- the City of Lakes and Sunrise.
Popularly referred to as the Venice of the East, Udaipur is an enchanting
image of white marble palaces, placid lakes and green hills. It is an oasis
of colour in a stark and arid region. Picturesque havelis, ghats and temples
along Lake Pichola and the lively bazaars make Udaipur one of India's
greatest destinations.
Disembark the train as you begin your visit to the City Palace, the largest
palace complex in Rajasthan, with its scalloped arches, fretted balconies,
and cupolas. Visit Mor Chowk and see its lavish mosaics of peacocks; Moti
Mahal with beautiful mirror work; Chini Mahal covered in ornamental tiles
and the spectacular Zenana Mahal.
Feel like a king as you experience the hospitality at the Durbar Hall
reminiscent of the ancient Mewar glory. Feast your taste buds over a vast
spread of International cuisine.
Following lunch, you may if you wish, return to the train for a relaxed
afternoon on board. Or you have the option of enjoying spa facilities in a
palace hotel. Later in the afternoon, proceed for an optional 'Walking Tour'
through the Old Market of Udaipur. Browse through shops selling exquisitely
embroidered and printed fabrics, jewellery, paintings, carved wood artefacts
and other local crafts.
Return to the luxury of the train and look forward to another exciting
journey.
Overnight on the Maharajas' Express.
Day 04 / Tuesday : Jodhpur
This
morning, the Maharajas' Express, continues her journey from the pristine
environs of Mewar region into the stronghold of the Marwar region. Enjoy a
leisurely breakfast and lunch on board as your train passes through some of
the dramatic landscapes of the Thar Desert, arriving into the Blue City of
Jodhpur.
Following lunch, disembark and explore the erstwhile capital of Marwar-
Jodhpur. Set like a jewel amidst the golden sands and famous for its
magnificent forts and palaces from the Rajput era, it is home to some of the
finest architectural wonders.
Proceed on a walking tour of the Old Clock Tower market experiencing the
hustle and bustle of the market as well as get an insight of the daily
lifestyle of the local residents as you walk through a section of the blue
city, past some of the oldest houses and havelis. Continue to the
magnificent Meherangarh Fort. Admire the intricate latticed windows,
elaborately carved panels and elegantly curved porches. Tour the palaces and
temples built by successive rulers, with priceless jewels and a dazzling
collection of arms. The highlight of the day is a Royal Cocktail evening
with a wide array of sumptuous Marwar culinary delights served in the Royal
courtyard of Meherangarh Fort as you admire the cityscape from atop.
Return to the train and continue your journey to glorious Bikaner.
Breakfast on board; Lunch on board; Barbeque at Meherangarh Fort.
Overnight on the Maharajas' Express.
Day 05 / Wednesday : Bikaner
Your journey through the desert continues. As you relish your breakfast on
board, enjoy observing the desert - the scattered procepis cineraria trees;
the villagers attired in their bright turbans and the occasional herd of
camels breaking the monotony of the desert.
The medieval city of Bikaner was once a major centre in the cross-desert
caravan trade. Popularly known as Camel Country, Bikaner has the best riding
camels in the world. Bikaner's forts, palaces and temples are splendid
creations made in red and yellow sandstone and are living reflections of its
rich historical and architectural legacy.
Late morning arrive into the desert citadel of Bikaner. You have the option
of relaxing on board the train. Or you may choose to embark on an optional
tour of the city visiting Lalgarh Museum displaying some fascinating
exhibits on the royal heritage of Bikaner. Another intriguing optional is a
half-day excursion to the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, situated on the
outskirts of Bikaner. Popularly known as the Rat Temple, the
temple complex has hundreds of rats swarming the courtyard, an integral part
of the temple rituals and customs as they are considered very sacred.
Following your participation in any one of the optional tours, you will
return to the train for lunch.
Following lunch, you will disembark and proceed on a visit to the Junagarh
Fort, an unassailable fortress built in 1593 AD by Raja Rai Singh. While the
fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat, its real beauty lies
inside. Be overwhelmed by the Diwan-i-Khas, Phool Mahal (Flower Palace),
Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal and Anup Mahal. The Fort Museum is fascinating and
adorned with ornate decorative costumes and jewellery.
Continue on an experience of a lifetime! Catch a glimpse of rural
Rajasthan, as you are escorted through the surrounding village. Experience
the royal pageantry as a convoy of decorated canopied camel carts
accompanied by musicians takes you for a Sundowner in the Sand Dunes. Enjoy
cocktails, savour traditional mouth watering barbecue delicacies as you
enjoy traditional folk artists like the Langaas and Kalbeliyas whose music
and dance will mesmerise you.
Later return to the comfort of your train and embark on your onward journey
to Jaipur.
Breakfast on board; Lunch on board; evening barbecue on dunes.
Overnight on the Maharajas' Express.
Day 06 / Thursday : Jaipur
Today, you will arrive into the 'Pink City' of Jaipur.
Jaipur is truly a pristine jewel in the crown of the desert state of
Rajasthan. Built by Raja Jai Singh in the 18th century, Jaipur is renowned
for its magnificent palaces, forts and temples.
Following disembarkation, your exciting tour of the pink city begins with
an unique and enthralling experience - an Exhibition Elephant Polo Match.
Your arrival at the venue will be accompanied by the royal military band and
the beating of 'Nagadas' (huge Indian drums). You have the option to watch
or participate in the exhibition game. After the match, enjoy a Cocktail
lunch over sparkling wine.
Following lunch you have the option of returning to the train. Or you may
continue on a visit to the Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside
Jaipur city, this fort palace is surrounded by fortified battlements
overlooking the Moat Lake. A short jeep ride takes you up to the fort where
you will enjoy a tour of the royal apartments, with striking views of the
gorge. Step back into the Mughal era as you enter the Chamber of Mirrors
(Sheesh Mahal), and the Hall of Victory. On completing the tour of Amer you
will have the opportunity to shop for some of the finest jewellery, textiles
and blue pottery for which the city is renowned.
Breakfast on board; Elephant Polo Lunch at private venue; Dinner on board.
Overnight on the Maharajas' Express.
Day 07 / Friday : Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore) - Fatehpur Sikri
On arrival in Sawai Madhopur, early in the morning, get ready for a jeep
safari to the Ranthambore National Park. Originally the private hunting
ground of the Maharajas, Ranthambore was declared a National Park in 1973.
It is famous for its open sightings of tigers, sambar, chital, nilgai,
chinkara, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, jackal and leopard. Wildlife cannot
be compared to that of Africa and you are indeed fortunate if you spot the
elusive tiger or the shy leopard.
Return to the train and continue your journey to the fabled deserted Mughal
city of Fatehpur Sikri. Admire the changing landscape as you savour a hearty
brunch.
On arrival at the quaint station of Fatehpur Sikri, disembark and proceed
on a tour of the fascinating sights comprising of imposing gateways, Halls
of Private and Public audience, beautifully sculptured palaces with unique
water bodies, reflecting a perfect blend of hindu and muslim architectural
styles. This deserted red sandstone city was built by the great Mughal
Emperor Akbar as his capital in the late 16th century. It is now a famous
UNESCO World heritage site. Then return to the train to enjoy an 'Indian
night'!
Brunch and Dinner on board.
Overnight on the Maharajas' Express.
Day 08 / Saturday : Fatehpur Sikri - Agra - Delhi (Disembark)
Today, the train continues on her last leg of the journey towards the
magical city of Agra. The jewel of India, home to one of the world's great
architectural wonders - the Taj Mahal. With its spectacular monumental
masterpieces and picturesque natural setting, Agra is a legendary city
glorified by time.
Early morning, disembark and proceed to the world famous Taj Mahal. A
UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was built by Shah Jehan as a mausoleum for
his favourite queen Mumtaz. This incomparable marvel is constructed entirely
out of white marble and is an architectural masterpiece with beautiful inlay
work and marble screens. Approximately 20,000 of India's most revered
craftsmen were recruited to give shape to this poetry in marble.
Then enjoy a Champagne breakfast gazing at the Taj Mahal, from atop the Taj
Khema.
Following breakfast, you have the option of returning to the train or can
enjoy shopping for some peitra dura inlay on marble or for exquisite
jewellery.
Enjoy a hearty lunch on board as you continue your journey to Delhi. Bid
farewell to the Maharajas' Express as your 'Princely India' journey comes to
an end. The royal journey is over, but the memory of which will live on
forever!
Champagne Breakfast at Taj Khema; Lunch on board