Difference Between Palace on Wheels & Maharajas Express Train

India is home to some of the most luxurious and iconic trains in the world, and two of the most famous are the Palace on Wheels and the Maharajas’ Express. These trains are not just modes of transportation but are experiences in themselves, offering travelers the opportunity to travel in style and comfort while exploring the rich cultural heritage of India. However, despite both being luxurious train journeys, they differ in several aspects such as the route, facilities, and overall experience.

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Let’s take a closer look at the difference between the Palace on Wheels and the Maharajas’ Express Train.

Overview of the Trains

Palace on Wheels Launched in 1982, the Palace on Wheels is one of the oldest place of wheels train in India and is often considered the epitome of royal Indian travel. It is a joint venture between the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and the Indian Railways. Inspired by the palaces of Rajasthan, it offers a regal experience as it takes travelers through the princely states of Rajasthan, showcasing the grandeur of the royal heritage.

Maharajas’ Express The Maharajas’ Express, which started in 2010, is often regarded as one of the most luxurious trains in the world. It is operated by the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and offers world-class amenities and experiences that are tailored to suit international travelers. The train is known for its superior service, exquisite interiors, and broader coverage, offering several luxury journeys across different parts of India.

Routes & Destinations

Palace on Wheels — Primarily focuses on Rajasthan, offering a week-long journey that covers the royal destinations of Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambhore), among others. — The focus is on Rajasthan’s rich history, architectural wonders, and wildlife experiences. — The journey typically lasts 7 days, making it ideal for travelers keen on exploring Rajasthan’s majestic palaces, forts, and wildlife sanctuaries.

Maharajas’ Express — The Maharajas’ Express offers multiple itineraries across different regions of India, not just limited to Rajasthan. — Popular routes include “The Indian Splendor,” which explores Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi, and “The Heritage of India,” which covers Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. — Other routes include the Treasures of India, which covers popular destinations like Mumbai, Udaipur, and Ajanta & Ellora caves. — Journeys can range from 3 to 8 days, providing travelers with more options and flexibility in terms of destination variety.

Accommodation & Interior Design

Palace on Wheels

– The Palace on Wheels offers 14 deluxe cabins, which are inspired by the royal suites of Indian Maharajas. The cabins are elegant, with traditional Rajasthani decor, wood paneling, and plush upholstery. — It also features two super-deluxe suites called Maharaja and Maharani suites that offer an even more luxurious stay with larger spaces, royal furniture, and a more personalized experience. — The train is designed to provide an authentic royal feel, with the interiors resembling a palace on wheels.

Maharajas’ Express

– The Maharajas’ Express offers a higher level of luxury with 5 types of cabins: Deluxe, Junior Suite, Suite, Presidential Suite, and the exclusive Maharaja Suite. — The cabins feature modern amenities, such as LCD TVs, Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms, while maintaining a traditional royal ambiance. — The Presidential Suite, the largest of all, offers a private living room, a bedroom, and a marble bathroom, catering to travelers who desire the highest level of luxury. The ticket price for the maharaja express price starts at approximately INR 3,00,000 per person for a 4-day journey, depending on the cabin type and itinerary.

Dining & Culinary Experience

Palace on Wheels

– The Palace on Wheels offers two restaurants: The Maharaja and The Maharani restaurants, which serve a blend of traditional Indian cuisine along with international options. Orient rail journey offers by Palace on Wheels Train Dining and Bar

– The menu emphasizes Rajasthani specialties, like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri, reflecting the rich food culture of the region. — There is also a well-stocked bar offering a range of drinks to complement the meals.

Maharajas’ Express — The Maharajas’ Express features two fine-dining restaurants, *Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal, serving gourmet Indian and international cuisine prepared by master chefs. — The meal offerings are extensive, and travelers can indulge in world-class multi-course meals, with options ranging from continental, European, and Indian delicacies. — The train also has an exclusive Safari Bar, where guests can unwind with their favorite drinks in an elegant setting.

Onboard Facilities

Palace on Wheels

– The Palace on Wheels is designed to offer travelers a glimpse into the regal lifestyle with amenities like a library, lounge, and souvenir shop. — There are also recreational facilities like an onboard spa and wellness area, but the train is more focused on showcasing the cultural essence of Rajasthan. — Limited entertainment options are available, making the journey more serene and immersive in terms of the royal atmosphere.

Maharajas’ Express — The Maharajas’ Express offers state-of-the-art facilities, such as a lounge, a dedicated bar, a gift shop, and an onboard spa. — The train also has a modern gym and a business center for corporate travelers who might want to combine luxury with productivity. — The train is equipped with Wi-Fi, LCD screens, and a choice of entertainment, providing a more modern, lavish travel experience compared to the Palace on Wheels.

Price and Value

Palace on Wheels — The Palace on Wheels offers relatively more affordable luxury in comparison to the Maharajas’ Express. — Prices for a week-long journey typically start around INR 2,50,000 (per person), depending on the cabin type. — Though the train is luxurious, it provides a more traditional and cultural experience focused on Rajasthan.

Maharajas’ Express

– The Maharajas’ Express is among the most expensive trains in the world, with fares starting at around INR 3,00,000 to 4,00,000 per person for a 4-day journey. — The higher price point is reflected in the modern amenities, global-level dining options, and the broader range of destinations covered.

Conclusion

While both the Palace on Wheels and the Maharajas’ Express offer luxurious, once-in-a-lifetime train journeys across India, they cater to different kinds of travelers. If you’re looking for a more traditional, regal experience that focuses on Rajasthan’s palaces and wildlife, the Palace on Wheels is a great choice. However, if you’re seeking a broader range of destinations, modern amenities, and a more extravagant experience, the Maharajas’ Express might be the perfect fit for you.

Ultimately, both trains deliver an unforgettable experience, with a focus on luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion, making them both unique in their own right.