Maharajas’ Express, launched amid much fanfare in 2010 and touted to be the India’s answer to the Orient Express of the West may not continue its service in the coming year. The train was a joint venture between IRCTC and Cox and Kings India. Whereas the IRCTC owned the train, Cox and Kings were the operators of the luxury train journeys by Maharajas Express. The joint venture was known as the Royale India Rail Tours Ltd. (RIRTL).

Maharajas Express
Maharajas Express Train

According to the sources, IRCTC has terminated the contract with the Cox and Kings due to the non payment of haulage charge and lease charges etc. Owners of the Maharajas Express train. IRCTC, have also advised not to accept bookings for the trips after 31st December, 201. The case is under appeal before the Division Bench of the High Court and any further journey beyond 31st December by this Indian luxury Train requires approval of the court.

The train was the First Runner Up in the Favourite Specialist Train Operators Category at the Conde Nast Traveller Readers Travel Awards held in London on 31st August 2011. Maharajas Express is also considered as the best luxury trains and India and come equipped with state of the art amenities which include bar, restaurant,LCD television, Wi-Fi internet, lounge and souvenir shop. Maharajas’ Express rail journey was very much preferred by the high end travelers looking forward to a whirlwind luxury tours in India.