Great Indian Train Journey on the Maharajas' Express: Delhi to Mumbai - 11 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi, Explore the Capital 

Welcome to the bustling capital of India, Delhi! Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in. Today is free to spend as you wish, so you could stay in the hotel to relax and fight off jet lag or venture out to explore a bit on your own. A good place to start is the National Museum, where you can learn about India's rich history and cultural heritage. Peruse the vast collection of artifacts spanning over 5,000 years, from ancient sculptures and manuscripts to intricate paintings and textiles. 

Continue to the Lotus Temple, known for its distinctive lotus flower-inspired architecture. The temple welcomes visitors of all faiths to meditate, reflect, or simply admire its tranquil surroundings, and anyone can find solace within the serene interior. In the evening, head to the nearby neighborhood of Kalkaji to grab some street food or sit down at an Indian restaurant. Indulge in local delights like butter chicken or biryani, a fragrant rice dish cooked with marinated meat, before returning to your hotel. 

Day 2: Full-Day Tour of Old & New Delhi

Today, you'll join your guide for a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi, starting in Old Delhi with a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk Market. Navigate the narrow lanes lined with shops selling everything from spices and handmade goods to delicious street food. Continue the drive past the impressive Red Fort to get to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Your next stop is Raj Ghat in New Delhi, a memorial complex dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. After paying your respects to the revered activist, head to the India Gate, built as a tribute to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

Then, your guide will take you on a drive along the Rajpath, a ceremonial boulevard lined with colonial-era architecture and landmarks like Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. End the tour at the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb, commissioned by the emperor's wife and completed in 1570. Surrounded by lush, Persian-style gardens, the tomb complex is an oasis amid the bustling city. Explore the intricate chambers, walk through the serene gardens, and marvel at the elaborate craftsmanship before transferring back to your hotel.

Day 3: Train to Agra, Visit the Taj Mahal

Trade the bustling streets of Delhi for the plush furnishings, rich tapestries, and elegant decor of the Maharajas' Express. Head to the Delhi Safdurjung Railway Station at 6:00 am to check in and start your seven-day train journey. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast in the lavish dining car, then head to the observation car with panoramic windows for a look at the countryside. As you pull into Agra, you'll sit down for a delicious lunch to prepare for your visit to the Taj Mahal, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Once you step through the imposing entry gate, you'll be greeted by the grand monument with its iconic white marble domes and minarets soaring into the sky. Enter the mausoleum to see the cenotaphs of the emperor and his wife adorned with precious gemstones that shimmer in the natural light filtering in. Then, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens to admire the Taj Mahal from every angle. When you're done exploring, return to the Maharajas' Express to enjoy dinner and settle into your cabin's plush bed for the night.

Day 4: Explore Agra Fort, Train to Ranthambore

Get ready for an early wake-up call, as this morning, you head to Agra Fort at 6:30 am. The massive red sandstone and white marble fortress was built in the 16th century on the banks of the Yamuna River by Emperor Akbar of the Mughal Empire. Step through the towering gates to discover the complex of palaces, mosques, and audience halls.

Highlights include the Jahangiri Mahal, a palace renowned for its intricate stone carvings and latticework, and the Diwan-i-Khas, where Emperor Shah Jahan once held private audiences. After exploring the complex, return to the train for breakfast and start the journey southwest to Ranthambore, home of Ranthambore National Park.

Day 5: Afternoon Game Drive in Ranthambhore National Park, Train to Jaipur

Enjoy a leisurely morning on the train, then transfer to the gates of Ranthambore National Park around 2:30 pm. The park is renowned for its large population of Bengal tigers, meaning you should be able to get a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Traverse the park's diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open grasslands and tranquil lakes, in search of wildlife.

You may also spot leopards, sloth bears, deer, and plenty of birds, so keep your cameras ready. After three hours in the park, return to the train for a delicious dinner featuring both Indian and international cuisines as the train makes its way to Jaipur, known as the "Pink City" for its distinctive terracotta-colored buildings.

Day 6: Train to Bikaner, Explore the Desert City's Landmarks

Get a glimpse of Jaipur's pink architecture and lush countryside as you enjoy breakfast on board and head northwest to the desert city of Bikaner. When you arrive, you can choose between staying on board to relax or disembarking to explore the city, starting at Lalgarh Palace and Museum, a red sandstone palace-turned-museum. Step inside to peruse the treasure trove of artifacts showcasing the city's royal legacy. Then, continue to the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, known better as the "Rat Temple" because thousands of rats that are revered as holy roam freely within the complex.

Return to the train for lunch, then head to Junagarh Fort, distinguished by its imposing red sandstone walls and elaborate interiors adorned with intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and latticed windows. As the day draws to a close, make your way to the sand dunes surrounding Bikaner to watch the sunset, stopping at Gajner Palace first for a refreshing cup of tea. Enjoy a peaceful evening accompanied by lively folk dances, refreshing cocktails, and delectable barbecues. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan as talented performers bring traditional music and dance to life before returning to the train.

Day 7: Train to Jodhpur, Visit the Mehrangarh Fort & Clock Market

Overnight, you pulled into Jodphur, often called the "Blue City" for its vibrant blue-painted houses. Enjoy a leisurely morning on board, opt for a spa session, or visit the nearby village of Bishnoi Panth to witness the local culture and traditions. Around midday, return to the train for lunch, then head to Mehrangarh Fort, perched majestically on a rocky hilltop overlooking the city. Step through the massive gates and discover the palaces, courtyards, and museum within. Then, zip through the streets on a thrilling tuk-tuk ride to absorb the city's energetic ambience. 

Those seeking a deeper cultural experience can set off on a walking tour of the Clock Market. Stroll through the market centered around the city's iconic clock tower to shop for souvenirs, engage with locals, and sample local delights. Whether you choose relaxation, cultural immersion, or historical exploration, you'll end your day with a royal dinner and cultural performance at Khaas Bagh, a heritage hotel set in a beautifully restored colonial-era mansion. Savor traditional Rajasthani cuisine, featuring rich curries, aromatic spices, and traditional sweets, before returning to the train for the night.

Day 8: Train to Udaipur, Lake Pichola Cruise, City Palace & Crystal Gallery

Trade the "Blue City" for the "City of Lakes," Udaipur, renowned for its picturesque lakes, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy your breakfast on board, then disembark around 9:45 for a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Glide across the calm waters and enjoy views of some of the city's palaces, including Jag Mandir and Taj Lake Palace. After the boat ride, head to City Palace, a sprawling complex that blends Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. Wander through the courtyards, grand halls, and regal rooms, admiring the rich collection of artifacts, including royal costumes and vintage furniture. 

Visit the adjacent Crystal Gallery within Taj Fateh Prakash Palace next, home to an array of crystal artifacts, such as furniture, carpets, and chandeliers, all made from or adorned with crystals. After your morning of sightseeing, sit down for lunch amid the regal decor in Satkar Hall. The menu features a delectable array of traditional Rajasthani dishes alongside a selection of international cuisines prepared with the finest ingredients. When you're done eating, return to the comforts of the Maharajas' Express and enjoy your final evening on board.

Day 9: Train to Mumbai, Experience the City's Nightlife

Your last stop aboard the Maharajas' Express is the bustling city of Mumbai, known as India's financial and entertainment capital. Savor your breakfast and lunch on board while enjoying the scenic countryside passing by. Around 4:35 pm, you'll arrive in Mumbai and transfer to your hotel. Stay in to relax, or freshen up and venture out to experience the city's nightlife. Head to Colaba, a lively neighborhood at the southern tip of the city, and grab dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants. Then, choose a rooftop bar, such as Radio Bar, to enjoy a drink overlooking the city and the Arabian Sea.

Day 10: Full-Day Tour of Mumbai

Join your guide on a private tour of Mumbai, starting at the Gateway of India, built in 1924 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Continue to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, to peruse the exhibits dedicated to art, archaeology, and natural history. Your following stop is Mani Bhavan, a museum and memorial housed in Mahatma Gandhi's former headquarters. Escape into nature next with a visit to Kamla Nehru Park, a picturesque park offering panoramic views of the city skyline and Arabian Sea.

Other highlights of the tour include the Flora Fountain, which is surrounded by impressive buildings, such as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the University of Mumbai, and the Rajabai Clock Tower. From there, you'll venture toward the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a railway station that blends Victorian Gothic and traditional Indian architecture. Continue to the High Court of Bombay and Horniman Circle, a charming park surrounded by heritage buildings. End the tour at Nariman Point, the business district, where modern skyscrapers blend with historic landmarks. 

Day 11: Depart Mumbai

Take advantage of your final few hours in Mumbai with some last-minute sightseeing. You could shop for souvenirs at Crawford Market, attend a cricket match at Wankhede Stadium, or indulge in street food like kebabs along Mohammad Ali Road. If you have a late flight, consider a boat tour to Elephanta Island to discover the UNESCO-listed rock-cut caves dating back to the fifth to eighth centuries. When it's time, return to the hotel to grab your bags, meet your driver, and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!