Maharajas’ Express flagged off for new tourist season

IRCTC also planning off-season run of the train during April-September

Steeped in incredible opulence, Maharajas’ Express, the world’s leading luxury train, chugged out of a Delhi station on a royal odyssey to take its patrons across the famed ‘Golden Triangle’, signalling the beginning of its first journey of the new tourist season.

A signature enterprise of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the magnificent train, known for unmatched hospitality and off-train excursion, runs on five circuits across north-west and central India, covering around a dozen destinations, mainly in Rajasthan, between the tourist months of October and March.

IRCTC Chairman and Managing Director Dr. AK Manocha, who was present at Safdarjung station from where the train steamed out, said plans are afoot to run Maharajas’ Express during the offseason too (April-September) with some concession.

“During the lean season, we may offer one free ticket for every single booking. Thus, a couple can board the train by buying one only one ticket,” he informed.

The Safdarjung station wore a festive look on the occasion; Uttaranchal Pipe Band played music, shehnai and tabla players showed their expertise and immaculately-dressed staff stood in tows as the exuberant guests boarded the 23-coach, half-a-mile-long train that looked resplendent in maroon exterior with a golden hue.

The three-night/four-day trip, known as ‘Treasures of India’ will offer the guests an opportunity to explore and experience the rich cultural heritage of Incredible India, including the Taj Mahal, mighty fortresses and exquisite palaces (in Jaipur) and the Ranthambore National Park.

The train, which began its inaugural run in March 2010, has won a hat-trick of the coveted World Travel Award—from 2012 to 2014.