Redefine the Luxury with Mahraja's Express-Part 2

As soon as we got up, we all were really exciting to visit the next destination, Agra. After having breakfast, we arrived at Agra. Having heard and read a lot about Taj Mahal, I was too curious to visit this architectural wonder and finally, I was there. The glorious monument still retains its old-world charm. To see the picturesque setting of Taj is like a dream coming true.

Maharaja Express Train interior

Standing proudly on the banks of river Yamuna, it is synonym of love and beauty. The exquisite ornamentation, the purity of the white marble and the spectacular location all make it a worth-visiting place. Thereafter, we proceeded to the famous Agra fort, which is also renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a maze of courtyards and huge private chambers that showcase the splendor of the Mughal Empire.

We also got an opportunity to visit the Diwan-E-Aam and royal pavilions such as the Shah Jahan Mahal. While wandering through beautifully decorated halls and courtyards, I felt as if I was in the Mughal era where all I could see was, the royalty of that time. Headed to the Taj Khema, we came across colorfully attired musicians and dancers who escorted us to the gardens.

We were also allowed to enjoy shopping at Agra. There we came across some popular shopping items like handicrafts, marble and soapstone inlay work, brass ware, leather goods, textiles, carpets and exquisite jewellery. Our co-passengers were busy in picking up their favorite items while Dhara also bought some handicraft items for the keepsake of the tour.

We rejoined the train and enjoyed watching live television, which truly calls for applause. I wonder that how perfectly everything has been arranged for passengers. It must be the result of minute observation, which has at last successful in making the journey unforgettable for passengers.

One more thing, which is worth to mention here is that besides the beautiful sitting area, adorned with regal sofas, there is also a separate dining area. It allows you to dine in private. I am running short of words to describe the grandeur of the decor of the suite. Perhaps it can be best defined as par with excellence in luxury, richness and comfort.

Next morning, we were in Gwalior. After a leisurely breakfast, we set out to explore the city. The city is a blend of modern and traditional place. On one side, we could see the vibrant and bustling aspect, while on the other side, a multitude of monuments and temples reflect its glorious past.

Gwalior Fort

Then, we relaxed and enjoyed lunch. Jai Vilas Palace and Scindia Museum were also became the part of our exploration. The present Maharajas still live in a part of the place and the other part has been converted into a museum now. The museum displays remarkable collection of artifacts. We visited Usha Kiran Palace for enjoying cocktails and then board the train. Enjoying last dinner on board, we all were being ready for the next day to reach our last destination-Delhi.

Proceeding on a tour exploring the appealing sites of Delhi, we bid goodbye to the Maharaja's Express. Our mystical journey on the train was over, which was still unbelievable thought for us. The memory of the tour still refreshes my mind and takes me to the world of royalty and luxury.

Experience the Royalty with Maharaja's Express (Part-1)

Maharajas Express

The moment I started my journey with Maharaja Express, I could realize how royal it was going to be. Well, traveling from Kolkata to Delhi will be that memorable for me, I did not think.

The tour was planned with two of my friends, Dhara and Veronika. We all three were ready to spend our savings for treating ourselves with this royal experience. This was 8 days and 7 night’s journey that was full of surprises for us.

Decided to make the most of the time, we set out our journey with this luxury train. On being reached, we were served with a welcome drink.

You can imagine the royalty and luxury by just having a glimpse of the five deluxe cabins, six junior suites, two suites and a grand presidential suite. Redolent with the romance and charm of bygone era, interior of the train is considered to be the most luxurious in its class.

All the modern amenities are waiting for you!

Maharaja Express Restaurant

Enjoy the time of leisure watching LCD televisions or listening to music DVD players. You can also avail Wi-Fi connectivity on board the train. What I liked the most is that you enjoy a panoramic view of the fleeting outside through the large windows!

Then, we headed towards Gaya where I felt the immense tranquility at several pilgrim places. With its rich cultural past, the place is renowned as one of the most sacred places for Hindu pilgrims. Visiting Maha Bodhi Temple is an experience to cherish. The temple complex is now renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We slept well as we were supposed to rise early to proceed to legendary city of Varanasi. The experience of witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the sacred Gangas, was simply amazing that filled my heart with peace and tranquility.

The third day that we spent in Varanasi was full of delightful memories. Lively bazaars, ancient temples, the magnificent palaces, what else could we ask for! Being amidst the loud sound of temple bells as well as religious chants just are a perfect way to connect your soul to divine.

Following lunch, we visited the ancient ruins of Sarnath. The guide told us that this was the place, where Lord Buddha delivered his very first sermon about Buddhism. Visiting ruins, stupa and the Ashoka Pillar was simply a great experience.

Maharajas Express Facilities

At night, we enjoyed lip-smacking cuisines on board. Dinning is a great experience here that simply takes away your heart with its warm hospitality.

Next day, which was our 4th day on this train, we proceeded to the Bandhavgarh National Park which is known for the highest density of tigers. We get to see many animals here like deer, sloth bear, languor monkeys and chirpy birds.

Following brunch, we enjoyed spending some time at leisure than visited nearby village. We had a scrumptious dinner on board. The food served was too good that we had up to our fill.

Our next destination was Khajuraho, the most awaited one. It was our 5th day which we were enjoying to see the magnificent temples of the place. Known as UNESCO World Heritage site, these temples present the beautiful example of architecture. The emotions carved in stones exhibit the finest example of architecture of bygone era. The erotic idols also reveal the fact that 'Sex' was not a taboo subject those days rather it has been beautifully depicted through various sculptures.

We returned to the train and shared the knowledge about the Khajuraho temples till we fell asleep.

To be continued...