5 Star India aboard 5 Luxury Trains that redefine happy journeys!

Carole Garnham from Go4iT Travel - Carole Garnham

I'm watching the weekly the Australian Travel Guides series and was especially pleased to see the guides went to India and lavished them with a 5 star experience! And having travelled North and Southern India myself, firstly as a backpacker and then secondly as a guest of the Australian Indian Tourist board, I have to say, that 5 star treatment certainly is on offer and really takes this destination up a notch or two. What they didn't show and what I would like to talk about is Indian trains. Train journeys in India have come a long way from the times you would hear the usual “chai garam, garam chai” sounds of the tea vendor, drank water from a surahi and squatted over the hole in the makeshift bathroom. Something I experienced as a backpacker when I first went to India many years ago.
Today, in the time of super-fast express trains, let me introduce the most luxurious trains in India that let you travel like royalty. These uber-luxury trains are not just a means of transport, but journeys where you’re in no hurry to reach the destination.
So here are 5 of the best ..
The Deacon
The very sight of the royal blue train makes you feel like you are climbing aboard a noble chariot, going out for an inspection of the conquered lands. This 5 star indulgence on wheels boasts of opulently designed cabins that will leave you awestruck with their grandeur. The train takes you across various routes starting from Mumbai and Delhi, covering some stunning cities and landmarks. Managed by the Taj Group of Hotels, this train is designed to reflect the lives of Maharajas in the 16th century. An initiative of Maharashtra Tourism, the Deccan Odyssey is the perfect amalgamation of transport and luxury. There is plenty to do aboard the train, from multi-cuisine restaurants serving food presented by expert chefs, to a spa for relaxing massages, along with many other state-of-the-art facilities.
Start From: from Mumbai or Delhi.

The Maharajas Express
Awarded the “World’s Leading Luxury Train” title for 6 consecutive years by the World Travel Awards, The Maharajas’ Express is luxury beyond imagination. Choose from eight grand tours of India, witnessing palaces, forts and heritage properties. The princely train is built with the idea of exploring India’s heritage while on board a palace. The presidential suite on the train would give any premium five star hotel a run for its money, with private lounges, bedrooms, lavish washrooms and a plush dining area.
Start From: Delhi (North), Trivandrum (South)

Golden Chariot
An initiative by the Karnataka State Tourism Board, The Golden Chariot travels to a number of World Heritage Sites, making its way through the most beautiful natural wonders the country has to offer. These elegantly designed trains are equipped with facilities fit for kings, offer breakfast in bed and mesmerise you with the scenic routes. The aesthetic interiors complement the picturesque terrains through which the train travels. Each of the 11 guest cabins, named after ruling dynasties, are intricately designed with elegant Mysore style furniture. An Ayurveda spa centre, in house fine-dining restaurants, and tastefully maintained ambience of the lounges are just sweet cherries on top of this very delicious cake.
Start From: Bangalore

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
As the name rightly suggests, the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels takes you through the rich heritage of Rajasthan. Experience the Rajput culture of valour and hospitality, and travel through many stunning palaces and fortresses built in the Rajputana region. Upon boarding the train, you are greeted with a grand musical red-carpet welcome, and the warmth of hospitality that one expects from Rajasthani culture. The private cabins are no less than princely abodes, with tastefully decorated interiors, imagery from Rajputana history, all the modern facilities of a luxury hotel, and fine-dining experiences showcasing the most delectable gems from the region.
Start From: Delhi

Palace on Wheels
The original luxury train in India, The Palace on Wheels showed Indians what luxury is all about. With a recent face-lift, the train was once used as transportation by the Nizams of Hyderabad and the kings of princely states of Rajputana, Gujarat and others. This was the first heritage luxury train put together by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, and introduced the charm of royal travel to Indians and foreign visitors. Today, this premium train has retained its regal extravagance, and takes travellers through the heart of Rajasthan.
Start From: Jaipur

If you have enjoyed reading this and wondered if India is for you and love the finer things in life, like Janetta and Keith then talk to me today about booking yourself an exclusive train experience on any of these luxury trains. Or perhaps you would like to tap into the 5 star side of India with my assistance. Namaste!