General information & Facilities

Here is some general information to assist you in planning your Maharajas’ Express Tour:

BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE

The storage space in your cabin is limited. We recommend to adhere to international airline baggage rules for first/business class passengers. We advise to carry soft-topped luggage as it is easy to store. Storage is available under bed compartments and in the luggage hold.

BED & BATH LINEN

For your utmost comfort, we provide fresh bed and bath linens daily. To help us protect the environment, kindly leave your towels on the towel rack if you wish to rescue them.

BUTLERS

A dedicated team of butlers are serviced on train, with one assigned to each carriage 2 4/7 to assist you with utmost speed and efficiency, ensuring a memorable stay.

CELL PHONE RECEPTION

The reception varies while the train is moving but improves when the train is near the large cities or stationery.

CELL

To ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience for everyone onboard, we kindly request that you keep your cell phones on silent mode during your journey. This applies to both onboard and while visiting monuments during off-train excursions. Use of cell phones, laptops and computers are discouraged in public areas. Kindly utilize the privacy of your cabin.

CLOTHING & TRAVEL ACCESSSORIES

Summer: Pack some lightweight cottons and linen for summers and most winter days.

Winters: Pack light sweaters and wraps for cool mornings, evenings, and excursions throughout the year, especially for desert trips, wildlife reserves, and village safaris. Additionally, bring warm clothes for December, January, and winter nights.

Onboard: Opt for smart casual attire and comfortable walking shoes for off train adventures during day time.

Wildlife Harmony: Wear comfortable attire in natural, subdued colours that blend with the landscapes; bright colours are not recommended, especially for excursions to wildlife reserves.

Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the scorching sun.

Dining: Smart casual attire is perfect for onboard meals.

Note:

• Be prepared for changing weather conditions – pack enough woollens for the entire trip.
• Pack heavy woollens for Journeys between mid-December and mid-January, as this period experiences severe cold and fog in Northern India.
• If your chosen itinerary includes golfing, bring your own golf shoes.

CREDIT CARDS

Master, Credit, Visa, Amex all cards are accepted onboard Maharajas’ Express. Kindly note a surcharge applies to all card transactions.

CREW

Our highly motivated staff is committed to providing an unparalleled guest experience. They’ll anticipate your needs and ensure every moment is exceptional.

Expect unobtrusive yet attentive service from our English-speaking crew who add a touch of exclusivity to your journey.

CURRENCY & MONEY EXCHANGE

Indian Currency: The Rupee (Rs/₹), is Indian currency, divided into 100 paisa. Rupee notes come in denominations of Rs. 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, & 2000. Coins are in denominations of Re. 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20.

Foreign Exchange: Foreign currency exchange is regulated in India. Passengers carrying foreign exchange exceeding USD 5000 or its equivalent in cash, banknotes, or traveller’s cheques, with a total aggregate exceeding USD 10,000, must declare it upon entry into India. It’s recommended to exchange currency with authorized money changers or banks, especially in remote areas where exchange services may be limited. Be cautious of damaged notes or those with tapes attached, as they may not be accepted. It’s advisable to carry smaller denominations rather than Rs.1000 notes, as obtaining change can be challenging.

Note:

For assistance with foreign currency exchange, inquire with your onboard Guest Relations Manager about special facilities available to Maharajas’ Express guests.

CUSTOMS

Customs regulations in India are similar to other countries. Importing prohibited items carries serious penalties. Kindly note, it’s your responsibility to ensure you have all the valid and necessary documentation. The Company is not responsible for any consequences due to failure to apply.

ELECTRICITY

The train provides 110 volts and international adapters are also available onboard.

EMERGENCIES

Details of the ground handler, the place you are staying before and after the journey on the Maharajas’ Express are required for emergency contact.

GRATUTIES FROM SERVICES

Gratuity is customary in Indian culture for small services rendered. The amount given towards gratuities for all onboard staff is entirely at the guests’ discretion. An envelope will be supplied in each cabin on the final night of the journey for this purpose.

GUIDES

A professional and well qualified English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout your off-train adventures. We believe in embracing the authentic local experience, which is why we enlist seasoned local guides. They offer an invaluable and comprehensive perspective on the sights you’ll explore.

HAIR DRYERS

All washrooms are equipped with hair dryers.

HEALTH

No specific vaccination is currently required to travel to India. However, it is advised to check the latest health adversary before departure. Foreign tourists originating or travelling from a Yellow Fever endemic country should possess a certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination. Anti-malaria precautions should be taken, and carrying sufficient insect repellent is recommended.        Consulting a physician for personalized health advice based on your travel itinerary is prudent. If you’re under prescription medication, ensure you carry an adequate supply for the duration of the trip. Since medications in India are locally manufactured, it’s advisable to carry your own medicines.

HOT WATER

For running hot water, remember switch on heating 20 minutes before usage. In cabins with double occupancy, kindly allow a gap of 20 minutes between two users.

INSURANCE FOR MAHARAJAS’ EXPRESS

The MAHARAJAS’ Express is completely insured for earthquakes, fires, terrorism and theft providing, umbrella insurance coverage for all guests.

INTERNET

Stay connected with speed Internet access available onboard. For further details kindly contact the Train Manager. While internet reception may vary while the train is moving, it typically improves when the train is stationary or near major urban areas.

LAUNDRY

Laundry service is available at selected destinations. For more details contact your carriage butler.

MAHARAJAS’ BAR AND LOUNGES

Enjoy complimentary access to an exotic Safari bar stocked with a fine selection of wines, beers, and spirits, along with snacks for every passenger. Additionally, relax in the Rajah Club lounge, furnished with cosy club armchairs. For those seeking luxury, the Maharajas’ Express offers a high-end boutique showcasing exquisite and unique creations.

MAHARAJAS’ DINING

The MAHARAJAS’S Express offer two dining restaurants, each accommodating 42 persons, where everyone onboard dines together.  House wines and beer are served complementary with your meal.

MAHARAJAS’ TRANSPORT

From super deluxe coaches serving Deluxe Cabin and Junior Suite passengers to cars designated for Suite and Presidential Suite guests at every destination, each is equipped with complimentary sightseeing kits containing bottle coolers, candies, tissues, and shoe uppers. Every detail is meticulously attended to, ensuring your comfort akin to royalty. Experience this level of luxury when you step off the Maharajas’ Express.

OFF TRAIN EXCURSIONS

We recommend packing comfortable walking shoes as the of-train adventure may involve walking on uneven surface and unpaved sidewalks. You should be moderately fit for the off-train adventures. and may encounter challenges when boarding and disembarking the train.

Travellers with mobility challenges or any physical conditions must inform us at the time of booking. We reserve the right to decline participation in outings for individuals unable to complete the tour or causing unacceptable delays to the group. In such cases, no refund will be provided for any unused portion of the tour.

ON-BOARD SAFETY

All cabins of the train are equipped with electronics safes for the security of your valuables. While we take every precaution, we are not responsible for any loss.

PARAMEDIC ON BOARD

A 24/7 paramedic is available on board for any emergency medical assistance.

PERSONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE

Guest safety is Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC) is priority. Therefore, it is mandatory to have adequate travel insurance from the country of domicile covering, illness, injury, death, loss of luggage and belongings, accidents and trip cancellations. Please provide IRCTC your insurance details, the name, phone number and address, policy number and 24/7 emergency contact number. If you have any pre-existence medical conditions please disclose that to the insurance or to us, failure to do so may invalidate your travel insurance policy.

PLACEMENT OF TRAI N ON PLATFORM AT STATIONS

After deboarding at the stations, the Maharajas’ Express moves towards the yard for watering and refuelling. Please, follow the advised timings of deboarding to avoid any inconvenience. In vase if you need to return to the train before its boarding time, contact the manager to confirm the availability of the train on the platform.

PORTERS

Porters are available to assist you with your luggage at all the embarkation and disembarkation stations.

PRE & POST HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

We recommend booking minimum one-night accommodations before and after your rail journey. Reservations can be made by contacting us at great vacation@btconnect.com.

SAFETY

All cabins of Maharajas’ Express are outfitted with electronic safes. For safety reasons, we recommend to store your valuable documents like- passports and travel documents in the cabin safe. However, it is essential to have personal effects insured.

SMOKING POLICY

According to Indian Law, smoking is prohibited onboard the train and all the public places such as, airports, restaurants, hotels, shopping malls and other public areas.

SPECIAL MEALS/ DIETARY REQUIREMENTS/ MEDICAL CONSITIONS

If you have any special dietary requirements or allergies, please inform us at the time of booking and to the on-board Chef/Train Manager. They will make every effort to accommodate your needs. Note that some adventures, like Jungle Safaris, involve open vehicles that may traverse dusty terrain. Guests with dust-related allergies are advised to carry necessary medication or inhalers.

TELEPHONE CALLS

 Telephone facilities are available in all the cabins, with additional charges for external calls.

TRAIN MANAGER

Throughout your journey, the Train Manager will be available for any special requests, problems, or tour information.

TRANSPORTATION ON EXCURSIONS

Most off-train tours include coach transfers for Deluxe Cabin & Junior Suite passengers and luxury cars for Suite & Presidential Suite passengers. However, some tours may involve jeep transfers. Please, refer to your itinerary for specific details.