Step into a journey unlike any other – where two of India’s most luxurious travel experiences unite to offer a spellbinding passage through heritage, wilderness and culture.
Begin your adventure aboard the Maharajas’ Express, the epitome of royal travel. Glide through the golden triangle and beyond in unmatched elegance, discovering iconic destinations steeped in history:
Explore the grandeur of Delhi and the royal allure of Jaipur Go on thrilling safaris in Ranthambore National Park Marvel at the timeless romance of the Taj Mahal in Agra
Wander through the sculpted temples of Khajuraho and the sacred ghats of Varanasi Each day aboard the Maharajas’ Express unfolds like a chapter from a royal diary — with gourmet dining, curated excursions and impeccable service, all within your luxurious moving palace.
And just when you think the journey couldn’t get any more extraordinary…
Board the MV Mahabaahu, a boutique river cruise ship that sails the mystical waters of the Brahmaputra River in the north east of India. Here, the pace slows and the landscape transforms.
Cruise past emerald tea estates, tribal villages, and temples perched on river islands. Witness the wild majesty of Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhino and explore the living culture of Majuli Island, one of the largest river islands in the world. With onboard yoga, Assamese cuisine and expert-guided excursions, the Mahabaahu experience is both enriching and serene.
From the glamour of royal rails to the tranquillity of sacred rivers, this combined journey offers a rare and unforgettable way to see India – luxuriously, authentically, and effortlessly.
Two worlds. One seamless journey. Endless memories.
Delhi (2), Maharajas Express Train (6), Delhi (1), MV Mahabaahu Cruise (7)
Detailed Itinerary
After clearing Customs and Immigration, step into the receiving area, where Road Scholar India team will meet you and escort you to the hotel.
Delhi is said to be one of the oldest existing cities in the world, along with Jerusalem and Varanasi. Legend estimates it to be over 5,000 years old. Over the millennia, Delhi is said to have been built and destroyed 11 times. The oldest alleged incarnation of the city shows up in the Indian mythological epic Mahabharata as Indraprastha.
Today we explore “Old Delhi,” to visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest Muslim mosques in India. A bicycle rickshaw will take you into the heart of Chandni Chowk (the silver square - so named because of the silver merchants).
Visit Gandhi Smriti, the sacred place where Mahatma Gandhi’s epic Life ended on 30 January 1948. Mahatma Gandhi had lived in this house on September 9, 1947, to January 30, 1948. Thus, the hallowed house treasures many memories of the last 144 days of his life.
Drive past India Gate, President's Estate and government building before stopping for the lunch at a local restaurant (on direct payment).
Thereafter, visit the most prominent Sikh Gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, in Delhi. The 'Langars' or the community kitchen proves to be the ideal example of prodigious hospitality of the Sikhs. Anyone and everyone can have scrumptious meal irrespective of caste, colour or class.
Return to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel (B)
At 07:30, arrive at the Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station. Welcomed with a ceremonial reception, the journey begins not just with a check-in, but with a step back into the golden age of Indian royalty. The Maharajas’ Express glides out of the capital, as we settle into our luxurious cabin, a sumptuous breakfast is served in the elegant dining car, setting the tone for the regal adventure ahead.
At noon, we gather for a tour briefing followed by lunch onboard.
By 15:30, the train arrives in Jaipur, the fabled Pink City. We proceed for a guided visit to the majestic Amber Fort, where history comes alive in sandstone walls and mirrored halls. Walk through courtyards where maharajas once held court and gaze out at views that stretch across ancient battlements.
Dinner on board and the train remains stationed in Jaipur.
Overnight onboard Maharaja Express (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we step out into the heart of Jaipur for a visit to the City Palace Galleries— a treasure trove of royal heirlooms, textiles, weaponry and miniature paintings. As we wander through regal corridors and glittering exhibits, the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal lineage unfolds like a vivid painting.
We return to the comforts of our train, where a gourmet lunch awaits in the dining car. Free afternoon or choose to explore optional experiences (direct payment).
As dusk settles, a truly magical evening awaits. We will be escorted to dine at the legendary Rambagh Palace, once the residence of Jaipur’s Maharaja, now a magnificent heritage hotel.
We return to the elegant embrace of the Maharajas’ Express. The train whistles softly into the night, and begins its journey toward Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to the wild heart of Rajasthan: Ranthambore.
Overnight onboard Maharaja Express (B, L, D)
The day begins before the sun and we step off the Maharajas’ Express and into open canter for an early morning game drive in Ranthambore National Park—once the private hunting ground of maharajas, now a protected reserve teeming with wildlife.
Thereafter, we return to the train, where a hearty breakfast is served.
The Maharajas’ Express continues its journey, chugging gracefully towards the next historic marvel: Fatehpur Sikri. As the countryside rolls past your window, enjoy a leisurely lunch onboard. We walk through one of the most hauntingly beautiful cities of India. Built by Emperor Akbar and later abandoned, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands frozen in time — red sandstone palaces, majestic courtyards, and a silence that tells a thousand tales.
Dinner on board and the train rests in the City of Love, Agra. Overnight onboard Maharaja Express (B, L, D)
As the first rays of sunlight bathe the sky in hues of gold and rose, you step out for a moment that lives in every traveler’s dreams — a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal.
As you walk through the grand gateway, the iconic white marble mausoleum slowly reveals itself in the morning mist. The Taj Mahal, a monument of love and perfection, stands ethereal in the soft light — its reflection mirrored in the serene waters below.
Thereafter, we move to Taj Khema, where a delightful breakfast is served with views of the monument still lingering in sight.
We return to the Maharajas’ Express and lunch onboard, after which the afternoon is free to unwind or indulge in optional experiences.
Dinner onboard and the train proceed to Orchha. Overnight onboard Maharaja Express (B, L, D)
As dawn gently breaks, the Maharajas’ Express glides into the quiet town of Orchha. Step into a scene from a forgotten era, exploring the majestic Orchha Fort Complex, with its towering cenotaphs, ornate pavilions, and stunning frescoes. A TukTuk ride through the village brings you closer to everyday life—where simplicity and history coexist under the soft morning sun.
We return to the luxurious comforts of our train, and a well-earned breakfast is served as the landscape begins to change once more.
The Maharajas’ Express continues its journey to the land of divine sensuality and stone- carved poetry—Khajuraho. Post lunch, we arrive in Khajuraho, home to the world-famous Western Group of Temples—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we walk through intricately carved shrines, where gods, mortals and myths are immortalized in sandstone, we can feel the pulse of a civilization that celebrated art, life, and spirituality in perfect harmony.
The night holds its own charm—as we treated to a special “Indian Evening” on board. Post dinner, the Maharajas’ Express sets off once again, now bound for the sacred city of Varanasi, where the Ganges awaits to share her ancient secrets.
Overnight onboard Maharaja Express (B, L, D)
The morning unfolds gently as the Maharajas’ Express rolls through the peaceful countryside. Enjoy morning tea and a relaxed breakfast on board, watching scenes of rural India pass by—green fields, grazing cattle, and sleepy villages that seem untouched by time. The train arrives in Varanasi, India’s spiritual heart and one of the oldest living cities in the world. Disembark and proceed for lunch at the Taj Ganges Hotel before diving into the city’s timeless stories.
We begin our exploration at Sarnath, the revered site where Lord Buddha first shared his teachings after enlightenment. The quiet ruins, ancient stupas, and the peaceful aura make this a profound encounter with India's spiritual heritage. Next, the journey takes a turn into the world of artistry at a Silk Weaving Centre, where Varanasi’s famed handwoven silks come to life.
As dusk descends, the highlight of the day awaits, we make our way to the banks of the Ganges, where boats await to carry us through the gentle waters. The river, sacred and eternal, glows under the setting sun as you witness the Evening Aarti—a mesmerizing ceremony of fire, chants, and devotion. Bells ring out, lamps are floated across the water, and the air itself seems to shimmer with energy. It’s a moment that touches the soul, no matter where you come from.
We return to the Maharajas’ Express and enjoy our farewell dinner onboard. The Maharajas’ Express departs for Delhi.
Overnight onboard Maharaja Express (B, L, D)
As the Maharajas’ Express rolls through the last stretch of Indian countryside, our final morning on board begins with a quiet kind of beauty.
Over the past few days, we walked in the footsteps of kings, stood before ancient temples, wandered through historic cities, spotted tigers in the wild, and watched prayers rise into the night sky along the Ganges. This has been more than a journey—it’s been a passage through India’s soul.
The train will arrive Delhi in the afternoon, and it’s time to disembark. The red carpet is rolled out one final time, the staff offering warm smiles and heartfelt farewells as we step off the train.
But our journey isn’t over yet...
A new chapter awaits—on the mighty Brahmaputra River, where the serene elegance of the MV Mahabaahu beckons. From royal rails to sacred rivers, our adventure through India continues—shifting from palatial journeys on tracks to a tranquil voyage over water.
We check-in to our hotel in Delhi to stay overnight. Overnight at the hotel (B)
We begin our journey with a flight from Delhi to Jorhat, transiting through Kolkata with a change of aircraft. Upon arrival at Jorhat Airport, you will be greeted at the receiving area and transferred by road to Neamati Ghat.
Here, we board the MV Mahabaahu and settle in as the vessel begins its maiden sail along the Brahmaputra River. Take in the serene river landscape and keep an eye out for the elusive Gangetic dolphins that occasionally break the surface.
In the evening, gather for an engaging talk on “Sibsagar and the Ahom Civilization”, offering a fascinating introduction to the rich history and culture of Assam.
Overnight onboard MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
After an early breakfast, we start our day- excursion to Sibsagar. Thereafter, we drive to a Tea Estate for a relaxed afternoon where we enjoy a traditional Assamese lunch with the Tea-estate family.
We return to MV Mahabaahu by sunset and enjoy a relaxed evening
Overnight onboard MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
After Yoga, as we have our breakfast. We sail towards the Majuli. We get on the tenders and arrive on the mainland where a drive takes us to a scenic corner of a Satra for an interesting cultural performance by Satriya singers and dancers. Next, we drive to
Kamalabari Satra to witness the Vaishnavite priests dancing to the rhythm of cymbals, drums and chanting in the temple premise. We enjoy hot lunch on MV Mahabaahu and sail towards the closest Mishing Village.
After the Mishing Village, MV Mahabaahu heads towards Dhansiri Mukh where the waters of Brahmaputra and Dhansiri meet, while we enjoy a talk on ‘Assam, its geographical location & importance’. We then enjoy the evening under the stars on a deserted island.
Overnight onboard MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
After Yoga and an early morning walk on a deserted island, MV Mahabaahu sails towards the Eastern Range of Kaziranga for boat Safari. We enjoy breakfast and a talk on ‘The River Brahmaputra and the life that exists alongside’. We proceed for the safari in our tenders for about two hours. This evening we enjoy the Chef’s Cooking Demonstration followed by a talk on ‘Majuli’. The evening on a deserted island with bonfire is always unusual.
Overnight onboard MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
After Yoga/walk on the deserted island, enjoy an interesting talk on ‘Kaziranga and the wildlife in India’. Then we step into our tenders to go to the shores of Bishwanath Ghat. We enjoy a walk through the village and see how this suburban village thrives.
We sail on for the next couple of hours and enjoy a relaxed lunch and reach Silghat. We take a drive from Silghat to the Western Range of the Kaziranga National Park for an exhilarating jeep safari through the world’s largest population of single horned rhinos, wild buffaloes, elephants, deers and hundreds of species of birds. In the evening enjoy Cultural dance performance on the ship.
Overnight onboard MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
Very early today drive towards the Kaziranga National Park. After breakfast at a resort in Kaziranga, we get into the open jeeps for some more wildlife adventure and an extensive coverage of this magnificent park. Return to MV Mahabaahu After the leisurely pace of the day and having recovered the lost sleep, we once again get together for A talk on ‘Kamakhya and the Occult and Peacock island followed by a traditional Assamese theme dinner.
Overnight onboard MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
We catch up on Yoga on an island or on the deck for an hour and move on to breakfast, while MV Mahabaahu lifts anchor and heads on towards an island that is occupied predominantly by a Bangla speaking Muslim community who are involved in extensive farming. After a visit to this village we return to the ship for lunch and sail towards the Peacock Island. After the Peacock island visit, we sail towards Pandu Port and anchor at a jetty. Get ready for the Farewell Dinner ‘Alvida Bhoj’ and enjoy a relaxed evening.
Overnight onboard MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
Early morning Yoga or Nature walk. Post breakfast, disembark the cruise to Guwahati airport with en-route stop at the Kamakhya Temple. Board flight to Kolkata and on arrival, connect with flight to onward destination.