Maharajas Express – Southern Sojourn ( 8 days and 7 Nights )

Traveling through India often feels like stepping into a living museum, but doing so on the Maharajas Express elevates the experience to a whole new level. This luxurious rail journey offers a seamless blend of comfort, culture, and breathtaking scenery. With its award-winning reputation, including the “World’s Leading Luxury Train” award in 2012, it’s clear that this trip delivers a top-tier experience for those seeking the ultimate way to explore India.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines exclusive onboard luxury with authentic excursions at each stop. From stunning UNESCO sites to local villages, the itinerary is designed to give a taste of India’s diverse regions—all while traveling in style.

A potential consideration is the steep price point—$5,920 per person—but for many, the all-inclusive nature, luxury amenities, and curated experiences can justify the cost. This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort and are eager to indulge in a high-end travel experience that covers some of India’s most iconic destinations without the hassle of planning logistics.

Key Points

• Luxury on Rails: The Maharajas’ Express offers five pan-India tours with full-board luxury, including spacious cabins, Wi-Fi, live TV, and 24/7 butler service.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Stops include UNESCO World Heritage sites, local villages, and traditional arts, providing meaningful cultural insights.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, onboard drinks, and sightseeing are included, making it a hassle-free way to travel.
• Exclusive Experiences: From Tuk Tuk rides in Hampi to a snake boat race in Kumarakam, the tour offers memorable, authentic activities.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 16 travelers ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Premium Price, Premium Value: While costly, the all-encompassing luxury and curated itinerary might be worth it for those seeking a hassle-free, indulgent Indian adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Mumbai to Goa

The journey begins with a traditional welcome onboard the Maharajas’ Express. After settling in, the train departs for Goa—famous for its beaches and colonial architecture. Most travelers can expect a smooth and elegant boarding experience, with your cabin ready for rest after a day’s travel. Dinner on the train sets the tone for the trip—refined, well-presented, and with attentive service. We loved the way the train’s ambiance immediately transports you to a royal world, with large windows offering glimpses of the passing scenery.

Day 2: Exploring Goa

Arriving in Goa, you can jump straight into a day of culture. A visit to the churches of North Goa gives insight into its Portuguese colonial past, while a walking tour of Old Panjim houses reveals local architecture and history. The Goa Chitra Museum adds an ethnographic angle, showcasing traditional Goan life. The exclusive Goa Carnival Evening was highlighted as a highlight in reviews—an energetic celebration full of color and local spirit. Expect to spend about 10 hours exploring, with the comfort of returning to the train for meals and rest.

Day 3: From Goa to Hampi

The train continues northward to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient ruins and boulder-strewn landscape. The day is more relaxed onboard, allowing you to enjoy the luxurious amenities. Upon arrival in Hospet, a trip to Anegudi Village offers a taste of rural life, which many travelers find a refreshing contrast to the archaeological sites. This stop provides a gentle intro to India’s diverse environments. Dinner onboard offers a chance to unwind after a day of travel.

Day 4: Discovering Hampi

Early breakfast is followed by a full exploration of Hampi’s ruins, which are best experienced on tuk-tuk rides—fun, practical, and full of local charm. The site’s intricate temples and royal complexes reflect a once-powerful empire’s grandeur. Returning to the train for lunch, we appreciated the ease of combining travel and sightseeing. As the train proceeds to Mysore, the onboard service continues to impress, with dinner served en route.

Day 5: Mysore’s Royal Heritage

Mysore is a city synonymous with regal splendor. The Mysore Palace is the centerpiece, and a guided visit allows travelers to appreciate its architecture and history. Lunch at the Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel adds a touch of luxury, and an afternoon excursion to Shreerangapatnam reveals more of the region’s historic significance. The day ends with the train heading toward Kerala, with dinner served onboard—an indulgent way to relax after a busy day.

Day 6 & 7: Kerala’s Backwaters and Cultural Gems

Arriving in Kochi (Cochin), travelers are immersed in Kerala’s artistic and natural beauty. A visit to a traditional village complex showcasing local arts is both educational and inspiring. The highlight of Day 7 is a canoe cruise on Kumarakam’s backwaters—an absolute must-do for nature lovers. The Snake Boat Race, held during lunch at an exclusive venue, is a lively, authentic experience that captures local enthusiasm. The onboard “Indian Evening” caps off the day, allowing guests to toast their adventures in true royal style.

Day 8: Disembarking in Trivandrum

The journey concludes in Trivandrum, Kerala’s capital. After a hearty breakfast, you disembark, ending your luxurious adventure. Options for pickup and transfer are provided, making the departure smooth and straightforward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Luxury and Comfort: Every cabin on the Maharajas’ Express is designed with large windows, offering sweeping views of India’s changing landscape. The cabins, especially suites and the presidential suite, come with bath tubs, private air conditioning, and modern amenities like Wi-Fi and live TV. The 24/7 butler service and onboard medical support elevate the sense of indulgence.

Authentic Cultural Experiences: The tour goes beyond surface sightseeing. Visiting sites like the UNESCO ruins in Hampi, the temples in Mysore, traditional arts in Kerala, and local villages provides a genuine window into Indian life. The activities are curated to balance leisure and exploration, ensuring travelers don’t feel rushed.

Ease and Convenience: All logistics—meals, sightseeing, transportation—are handled for you. Staying on a luxury train means no packing and unpacking at each stop, and the small group size ensures personalized attention.

Value for Money: Although the price tag is high, it includes accommodations, most meals, sightseeing, and exclusive activities. For travelers who want a hassle-free, immersive Indian adventure, the all-inclusive nature simplifies budgeting and planning.

Authentic Yet Comfortable: Some reviews mention the “impeccable service” and “luxurious decor” that makes you feel like royalty, while others appreciate the unique local experiences, such as riding tuk-tuks and witnessing traditional dance and art forms.

Who Is This Tour For?

This journey is ideal for those who prioritize comfort, luxury, and authentic culture. It suits travelers with a higher budget who want to explore India without the stress of planning individual itineraries. The smaller group size appeals to those who prefer a more intimate experience, and the curated activities ensure a well-rounded look at the country’s highlights.

However, it’s not geared toward budget travelers or those seeking an adventure with a focus on roughing it or extensive physical activity. The emphasis is on a refined, relaxed experience—luxury and culture wrapped into one.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 8 days, with each day packed with sightseeing and onboard luxury. The price of $5,920 per person covers seven nights on the train, one night in a hotel, meals, sightseeing, and all taxes. Optional extras like airport transfers are available but not included in the base price.

Group size is limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The schedule begins at 7:00 am each day, so expect early mornings for sightseeing, but with the comfort of a luxurious setting to return to each evening.

The train is fully insured and adheres to Indian legal requirements—smoking is prohibited inside, and pets are not allowed. Payment options include major credit cards, simplifying the process.

FAQs

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes airport, hotel, and port pickup and drop-off from any part of India, making travel arrangements straightforward.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers seven nights on the train, one hotel night, onboard meals, sightseeing as per the itinerary, unlimited alcohol (beer, wine, whiskey), government taxes, and Wi-Fi.

Are all the activities included?
Most sightseeing activities, such as visits to UNESCO sites, museums, and local villages, are included. Some activities like camera fees at monuments may incur additional charges.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 16 travelers, offering a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can join, and the smaller group size fosters a social environment.

What about dietary restrictions?
While meals are provided onboard, specific dietary needs aren’t detailed. It’s best to communicate your preferences in advance to ensure accommodations.

Final Thoughts

The Maharajas Express Southern Sojourn is more than just a train ride; it’s an all-encompassing journey into India’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty—all enjoyed in the lap of luxury. For travelers eager to see India without the logistical hassle and with the comfort of top-tier amenities, this tour offers remarkable value.

It suits those who want a curated, exclusive experience, where every detail—from accommodations to activities—is thoughtfully planned. The combination of authentic excursions and lavish onboard facilities makes it a standout choice for anyone celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in India’s grandeur.

While the price may seem high, the level of comfort, personalized service, and immersive cultural encounters make it a compelling option for travelers with a taste for luxury and a curiosity for India’s diverse landscapes and traditions. If you’re after a hassle-free, memorable adventure that combines comfort with culture, the Maharajas Express Southern Sojourn is hard to beat.

Note: Given the non-refundable policy, it’s best to be sure of travel dates and preferences before booking. Always verify your passport details and consider travel insurance for peace of mind during such a premium journey.