When it comes to luxury train travel in India, two names stand out: Palace on Wheels and Maharajas Express. Both offer an opulent experience, but they differ in several aspects, including routes, onboard services, and the overall experience. Here’s a look at how they compare:
1. Route and Destinations
- Palace on Wheels: The Palace on Wheels offers a royal journey through Rajasthan, covering iconic cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer. It provides a deep dive into the state’s culture, heritage, and royal history. The Palace on Wheels fare varies based on the season and cabin type, with prices typically ranging from approximately INR 3,50,000 to INR 7,00,000 per person for the 7-night journey. It includes accommodation, meals, excursions, and onboard services.
- Maharajas Express: The Maharajas Express offers a broader range of routes, including the Heritage of India and Treasures of India journeys. It travels through a variety of regions, such as Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and beyond, providing more diverse experiences.
2. Duration and Itinerary
- Palace on Wheels: Typically a 7-night, 8-day journey, this train follows a set itinerary across Rajasthan, with several off-train excursions to explore famous forts, palaces, and temples.
- Maharajas Express: This train offers flexible durations ranging from 3 to 7 nights, with different itineraries that can be customized. It also includes a mix of cultural experiences and sightseeing at major Indian landmarks.
3. Luxury and Comfort
- Palace on Wheels: Known for its regal, vintage charm, the Palace on Wheels features cabins designed to resemble royal suites from the 1920s. The interiors are traditional, with ornate decor that reflects Rajasthan’s princely history.
- Maharajas Express: The Maharajas Express boasts modern, sleek luxury with state-of-the-art amenities. Its suites and cabins are spacious, with contemporary designs, en-suite bathrooms, and high-end facilities that provide a more modern luxury experience.
- The maharaja express ticket price ranges from approximately INR 3,00,000 to INR 8,00,000 per person, depending on the journey duration, cabin category, and season. The fare includes luxury accommodations, meals, guided excursions, and exclusive onboard services.
4. Onboard Facilities
- Palace on Wheels: The train offers luxurious facilities such as a multi-cuisine restaurant, a bar, and a lounge. The decor is traditional, and the overall atmosphere reflects Rajasthan’s royal splendor.
- Maharajas Express: The Maharajas Express has advanced amenities, including a dining car with gourmet food, a lounge, and an observation car for panoramic views. Additionally, it provides a range of personalized services, such as a personal butler.
5. Price and Exclusivity
- Palace on Wheels: While still considered an exclusive experience, the Palace on Wheels tends to be more affordable compared to the Maharajas Express, making it an excellent option for those seeking luxury on a somewhat lower budget.
- Maharajas Express: Known as one of the most expensive luxury train journeys in India, the Maharajas Express offers a higher-end, more personalized experience. This train caters to those looking for ultimate luxury and exclusivity.
6. Cultural Experience
- Palace on Wheels: The Palace on Wheels emphasizes Rajasthan’s royal heritage, with excursions to historic sites, palaces, and temples, as well as cultural performances showcasing the region’s music and dance traditions.
- Maharajas Express: The Maharajas Express provides a wider cultural immersion, as it covers more diverse regions and includes experiences like visits to famous landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, the Ajanta Caves, and more.
Conclusion
Both Palace on Wheels and Maharajas Express offer luxurious journeys that immerse passengers in India’s rich cultural heritage. The choice between them depends on your preferences: If you’re seeking a regal experience focused on Rajasthan, Palace on Wheels is ideal. However, if you prefer a modern, all-encompassing journey with a wide range of destinations, the Maharajas Express is the epitome of opulence and luxury.
Visit Source url:- https://medium.com/@orientrailjourneys/difference-between-palace-on-wheels-maharajas-express-train-352add16cdf4
