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0203 880 8585 Or send us a messageThis journey is as much about the soul as it is about the senses. Embark on an immersive expedition, woven from the dreams of maharajas and the lullabies of mountains, where every turn whispers a tale, every taste unveils a tradition, and every sight unravels a saga. Welcome to a grand Indian rail odyssey. From the pulsating streets of Delhi, the rhythmic sway of a train carriage will take you to the peaceful abode of the Himalayas – Shimla, via Amritsar. From here you’ll swap the cool mountain breeze for the warm desert winds as you board the world famous Maharajas’ Express for a luxurious rail tour of Rajasthan. Traverse through the land of tigers and lakes, golden sands and blue cities. Witness the incredible transformation of landscapes, cultures and flavours. Come, immerse yourself in the magic of India, and emerge with memories that will last a lifetime.
International & domestic flights
Seven days aboard the incredible Maharajas’ Express
Expert guides and private drivers
Luxury & characterful accommodation
Dedicated Yonder support 24/7
Remember: Every Yonder itinerary is uniquely created to suit our individual clients. Destinations, hotels, lengths of stay and even modes of transport are all decided by you, with the help of our local knowledge and expert guidance.
DAYS 1-3 | Delhi
When you arrive in Delhi you’ll be met by your private Yonder driver who will accommodate your every whim. Check in at The Imperial, Delhi’s great colonial era hotel, and relax after your long haul flight. Once you’ve recuperated, you’ll venture forth with your guide into Old Delhi by rickshaw to discover the sights, sounds and smells of the mesmerising maze of alleyways. You’ll then swap from peddle power to your air conditioned car to experience Delhi’s other major attractions including Humayun’s tomb, Raj Ghat (or Gandhi’s eternal flame) and India Gate along with the presidential and secretariat buildings.
Your included hotel
The Imperial
Your alternative hotel choices
The Claridges
The Lodhi
DAYS 3-5 | Amritsar
As dawn breaks, we find ourselves on the move again. The destination? The spiritual heart of Punjab, Amritsar. Upon arrival, the city greets us with a warm hug of hospitality, its unique blend of spiritual sanctity and cultural vibrancy immediately palpable. Once again you’re met by your private driver for the brief journey to your hotel, Ranjit’s Svaasa. The day ends with anticipation – for tomorrow, we will explore the soul of this resilient city.
Your included hotel
Ranjit’s Svaasa
Your alternative hotel choices
Taj Swarna
DAYS 5-6 | Chandigarh
We say our goodbyes to the spiritual charm of Amritsar and journey onward to the architectural wonder that is Chandigarh, a marvel of urban planning and modern architecture, set amidst the backdrop of the Shivalik hills. The serene gardens, broad avenues, and the orderly layout offer a different perspective on the vibrant chaos that characterises most Indian cities.
Your included hotel
Oberoi Sukhvilas
Your alternative hotel choices
JW Marriott Chandigarh
DAYS 6-9 | Shimla
Today, we trade the clamour of the city for the music of the mountains. First a journey aboard the intercity train to Chandigarh, followed by a quaint Toy Train journey to Shimla. As the train huffs and puffs its way up the mountains, the symphony of the railway lines, the whistle of the locomotive and the rustle of the deodar trees interweave into a soundtrack of nostalgia. On arrival, Shimla greets us with cool mountain air, a welcome respite from the plains. Your private driver will meet you at the station and spirit you to your hotel for the night, the resplendent WildFlower Hall. The next morning you’ll take a guided tour of Shimla and, on your second day, enjoy a much needed free day to relax, unwind and take stock of your journey so far.
Your included hotel
WildFlower Hall
Your alternative hotel choices
Oberoi Cecil
DAYS 9-10 | Delhi & Maharajas’ Express to Agra
Leaving Shimla you’ll head back to Delhi by train via Chandigarh. You’ll spend another night in our favourite Delhi hotel, The Imperial, before waking early the following morning to join the world famous Maharajas Express, one of the greatest rail journeys on earth. Once aboard, you’ll embark on a journey to Agra, dining on a gourmet breakfast en route, prepared by top chefs with local delicacies. As the train reaches Agra, a city rich with Mughal history, an onboard briefing will prepare you for the adventures ahead. Come afternoon, you’ll disembark for a guided tour of the pristine white beauty of the Taj Mahal, before returning to your cabin for dinner and a relaxed evening on board.
Your included hotel
Maharajas' Express
Your alternative hotel choices
The Imperial
DAYS 11 | Maharajas’ Express: Agra to Ranthambore
Awaking amidst Mughal grandeur, you’ll set foot in the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, basking in its red sandstone magnificence. Your return to the train will be marked by a hearty breakfast, after which the lush wilderness of Ranthambore will beckon. As you lunch, the train will snake its way through pastoral lands. Later in the day, an exhilarating safari will offer a chance to spot the elusive tiger. After dinner retire to the comfort of your cabin and drift off to sleep to the gentle sway of the train as it steams towards your next destination, the fabled pink city of Jaipur.
DAYS 12 | Maharajas’ Express to Jaipur
Post a sumptuous breakfast, the majestic Amber Fort awaits. You’ll navigate its sprawling courtyards and grand halls, later indulging in some local shopping or perhaps an elephant ride. Lunch aboard will be a feast of Rajasthani delicacies. The evening will unravel in the grandeur of the Rambagh Palace, with a meal that promises royal culinary delights. As stars sprinkle the desert sky, your journey will set towards the rustic charm of Bikaner.
DAYS 13 | Maharajas’ Express to Bikaner
As dawn breaks the train pulls into Bikaner. After breakfast, you’ll be immersed in the mediaeval allure of the Junagarh Fort. As the sun lowers, the golden Sand Dunes will host you with a captivating evening of traditional music, dance, and a spread of local cuisines under the open sky. As night falls the train steams towards the royal city of Jodhpur.
DAYS 14 | Maharajas’ Express to Jodhpur
As dawn breaks the train pulls into Jodhpur, with the day’s first hues painting its iconic blue facades. Enjoy breakfast and a leisurely morning at your own pace, soaking in the ambiance of the train. Come afternoon, the grandeur of the Mehrangarh Fort awaits. This imposing structure, with walls that have witnessed centuries, offers panoramic views that truly define the city’s landscape. The adventure doesn’t end there; a spirited Tuk Tuk ride will usher you into the heart of the Old Clock Tower market, where the very soul of Jodhpur thrives amidst vibrant stalls and age-old trade stories. As twilight sets in, the historic Khaas Bagh unfolds as the backdrop for your evening. With its rich history, it’s the perfect locale for an exclusive cocktail dinner that promises to be as memorable as the setting itself. Sated and enchanted, you’ll retreat to the plush confines of the Maharajas’ Express. And as the clock strikes nine, the journey continues, rolling gently into the night towards the serene lakes of Udaipur.
DAYS 15 | Maharajas’ Express to Udaipur
Enjoy breakfast as the train arrives into Udaipur, the City of Lakes. Disembark for a boat trip on the ethereal Lake Pichola before visiting the City Palace and the Crystal Gallery. By afternoon, you’ll head to Satkar Hall for lunch before returning to the comfort of the train for a chance to relax and unwind. However, the night is still young. Come evening, the train transforms, celebrating the diverse rhythms and tastes of India. A feast for the senses, from music to food, will ensue. And as the melodies fade and conversations wind down, the train will make its nocturnal journey towards the pulsating heart of India, Mumbai.
DAYS 16 | Maharajas’ Express to Mumbai
On the final day of your rail odyssey you’ll enjoy one last breakfast on board and enjoy the views of the Indian countryside segueing into the urban sprawl of Mumbai. There’s time for one more lunch on board before the train pulls into Mumbai. From here, India is your oyster. Perhaps you’re making your connection for your journey home, or perhaps you’re heading onwards to the south or beyond. Whatever your chosen itinerary, Yonder can gladly advise: get in touch today to discuss your plans.
Your alternative hotel choices
Taj Mahal Palace
Trident Nariman Point
All locations, activities and hotels can be tailored to your preferences.
Call a specialist:
0203 880 8585 Or send us a messageOff-the-shelf is off the menu at Yonder: from the moment you first get in touch you'll be in the hands of a senior executive who has spent years getting to know your destination first-hand. Other travel companies might talk a big game about expertise and customisation but, to blow our own trumpet for a minute, we're in a league of our own.
A unique blend of Victorian, Old Colonial and Art Deco style, the iconic and historic Imperial is seriously good. Beyond the turbaned, mustachioed doormen, elegant interiors are adorned with fine art. Great rooms compiled with ... View this hotel
Classic in its decor, as well as in the quality and standards of attentive service, The Claridges Delhi, built in 1952, has a long-established reputation as one of the go-to quality hotels in Delhi.
View this hotelThis itinerary would typically cost from £4,695 inclusive of international flights staying in the specified hotels and having the services of a private chauffeur and guide.
The costs vary based on season, flights, room type and board basis. All our holidays are tailor-made and can be created around your budget.
Every Yonder itinerary is uniquely created to suit our individual clients. Destinations, hotels, lengths of stay and even modes of transport are all decided by you, with the help of our local knowledge and expert guidance.
All Yonder holidays include flights, carefully curated hotels. private drivers, expert guides and local concierges alongside 24/7 support from Yonder should it ever be needed so you know you are in safe hands.We are immensely proud of our unique and in-depth expertise of the destinations we offer. Unlike some travel companies, each hotel we feature is handpicked and personally experienced by us so we can give you the inside story. We also carefully choose our guides based on their their exhaustive knowledge and professionalism to ensure you have a perfect holiday.
We love to chat. Tell us about your Yonderlust, your travel tastes, your wishes and desires. The more we know the better and we will make a few suggestions based on extensive our first-hand experience.
Once we‘ve glimpsed your travel soul we will start crafting your unique itinerary. And then we will refine it until you’re as excited as we are.
When you are ready to go Yonder you can make your reservation. We usually take a 30% deposit (but this can vary depending on your holiday). The balance payable 90 days prior to departure. Best of all, booking with Yonder really is headache free. You have complete financial protection for all holidays which include flights through our ATOL licence (11237).
And once you’ve booked, you can be absolutely sure that you’ll have someone to turn to whenever you need to. We will be there for you 24/7.