British Luxury train journeys across India

Luxury Train Tours in India for British Travellers

India Luxury Trains (ILT) entice UK travellers to experience India’s regal heritage aboard the world’s most palatial trains. From the exceptional Maharajas’ Express to the esteemed Palace on Wheels, these journeys promise elegance, authenticity, and impeccable service.

For over 35 years, ILT has helped British travellers plan bespoke, fully organised rail holidays in India. Our experts handle everything from visas to curated itineraries, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.

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Secure payments in CAD / USD / EUR · Dedicated India specialists

Why Take a Luxury Train Holiday in India?

Travelling by luxury train in India solves the puzzle that many British visitors face of how to experience this vast country without the exhaustion of packing, airport transfers, and navigating. These journeys offer something rather civilised, as you wake up in a new destination each morning, your hotel room travelling with you.

Here's why British travellers favour luxury train journeys with ILT:

  • Cultural Immersion: Explore India’s contrasts from royal cities and tiger reserves to spiritual towns.
  • Top-Notch Amenities: Enjoy ensuite cabins, fine dining, and attentive butlers throughout your journey.
  • Effortless Planning: ILT manages everything from visa support and airport transfers to pre-departure arrangements.
  • Proven Expertise: Officially associated with Indian Railways and IRCTC, ILT ensures authentic, trustworthy bookings.
  • Award-Winning Excellence: Our featured trains have been named among the world’s best by global travel associations.
India’s luxury rail icons

India’s Most Iconic Luxury Trains

India boasts four world-renowned luxury trains, each offering a unique window into the subcontinent's beauty and diversity.

Maharajas' Express

Often called "the world's leading luxury train," the Maharajas' Express features lavish cabins, fine dining, and curated excursions to India's most iconic destinations.

Palace on Wheels

Rajasthan's legendary train takes you through the desert kingdom's magnificent forts, palaces, and wildlife sanctuaries, offering an authentic royal experience with traditional Rajasthani hospitality.

Deccan Odyssey

Explore Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat aboard this elegant train, featuring spa facilities, gourmet dining, and excursions to UNESCO World Heritage sites and coastal paradises.

Golden Chariot

Journey through South India's treasures, from Bangalore's gardens to Karnataka's ancient temples and Kerala's backwaters, in refined luxury, with a blend of southern culture and cuisine.

Comparison Table

Train Duration Route Highlights Price Range (CAD)
Maharajas’ Express 3 to 7 nights Delhi, Agra, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Mumbai £5,200 to £15,500
Palace on Wheels 7 nights Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Agra £4,800 to £9,000
Deccan Odyssey 6 to 7 nights Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Ajanta, Ellora £4,600 to £11,000
Golden Chariot 6 to 7 nights Bangalore, Mysore, Hassan, Hospet, Goa £3,800 to £7,500

*Prices are approximate and vary by route, season, and cabin class.*

Featured luxury train journeys

Top Journeys for UK Travellers

The Heritage of India - Maharajas' Express Best for first-time visitors
The Heritage of India - Maharajas' Express
Duration: 6 Nights

Mumbai - Udaipur - Jodhpur - Bikaner - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Agra - Delhi

This luxurious journey covers the most iconic destinations of northern and western India, including the Taj Mahal, Udaipur’s palaces, and Ranthambore’s tiger reserve.

View details & dates Enquire now

Best Time to Travel: October to March (ideal for a winter sun escape).

Maharashtra Splendour - Deccan Odyssey Heritage & palaces
Maharashtra Splendour - Deccan Odyssey
Duration: 7 Nights

Route: Mumbai - Nashik - Ellora Caves - Ajanta Caves - Kolhapur - Goa - Sindhudurg - Mumbai

British travellers particularly appreciate this route for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient cave temples, and coastal Portuguese heritage. Journey through Maharashtra's wine country in Nashik (often compared to Tuscany) and relax on Goa's golden beaches, all whilst enjoying five-star comfort aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

View details & dates Enquire now

Best Time to Travel: October to April (popular choice during half-term holidays and Easter break)

Pride of Karnataka - Golden Chariot South India
Pride of Karnataka - Golden Chariot
Duration: 5 Nights

Route: Bangalore - Mysore - Hassan - Hospet (Hampi) - Badami - Goa - Bangalore

Ideal for those seeking a South Indian experience, this journey blends ancient temple architecture, Vijayanagara Empire ruins, and tropical coastlines. British guests particularly enjoy the moderate climate, rich history, and the journey's conclusion in former Portuguese Goa.

View details & dates Enquire now

Best Time to Travel: November to February (pleasant temperatures, perfect for temple exploration)

Plan from UK

Travel Information for UK Tourists

Visa & Documentation

UK citizens require an Indian e-Visa, which can be easily applied for online. Processing usually takes 2–3 working days. ILT assists with visa guidance and documentation support as part of the booking process.

Flights from the UK to India

Direct Flights: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Air India operate direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Delhi (DEL) and Mumbai (BOM).

One-Stop Flights: Convenient connections via Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul from Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

Simple booking from UK

How to Book Your Luxury Train Holiday

Booking your luxury train tour from UK is straightforward and secure:

1
Submit Enquiry Form

Fill in your preferred journey, dates, and traveller details via our website. Our team will reply within 24 hours during UK business hours.

2
Receive Personalised Itinerary & Quote

Our experts share a detailed itinerary with transparent pricing in GBP.

3
Confirm with Secure Payment

Reserve your space using a major debit/credit card or direct UK bank transfer.

4
Receive Confirmation & Travel Pack

Includes booking confirmation, pre-departure guide, and emergency contact details

All bookings are managed directly through official Indian luxury train partners, guaranteeing authenticity, secure payments, and peace of mind.

Why Choose ILT?

Why travellers trust ILT for luxury rail & India journeys

🚂

35+ Years of Luxury Rail Expertise

Decades of hands-on experience planning premium rail vacations across India.

👨🏻‍💼

Direct Operator Partnerships

You get priority access, reliable confirmations, and smoother on-ground coordination because ILT works directly with train operators.

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British-Savvy Planning

Specialists who understand Britishers' travel habits—winter timing, pacing preferences, and comfort expectations.

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End-to-End Support

Full assistance before, during, and after the trip, so you’re never figuring things out alone.

What Our UK Guests Say


★★★★★

The Maharajas’ Express was beyond luxurious. From fine dining to breathtaking excursions, every detail was handled perfectly.”

James & Emma
London
★★★★★

“Palace on Wheels was a true royal experience! The service, cuisine, and comfort made it unforgettable.”

Richard
Manchester
★★★★★

“A fabulous journey through South India on the Golden Chariot. Thanks to ILT for making it so easy to organise from the UK.”

Claire
Edinburgh

Plan Your Indian Rail Adventure

Experience India as few ever do through the elegance and heritage of its luxury trains. Let ILT craft your bespoke journey, handling every detail so you can focus on the experience.

*Ask our experts about the current 50% companion offer on the Golden Chariot and upcoming promotions for other luxury trains.

FAQs

How much does a luxury train holiday in India cost for UK travellers?

Prices range from £4,000 to £15,000 per person, depending on the train, season, and cabin type.

Do UK citizens need a visa for India?

Yes. Travellers from the UK require an Indian e-Visa, obtainable online via the official website.

Which is better: Maharajas’ Express or Palace on Wheels?

Maharajas’ Express offers unmatched luxury and service, while Palace on Wheels provides a heritage-rich royal experience.

What’s included in the ticket price?

Accommodation, dining, sightseeing, and guided excursions are all included. Flights and insurance are extra.

Are these trains suitable for families or couples?

Yes, they are ideal for both couples and small families. Some trains offer adjoining cabins.

Can I book directly from the UK?

Yes. All bookings can be made securely online through ILT, with support available in UK time zones.

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