The Maharajas' Express has spacious cabins, fine food and private performances..................

When we stepped off the train at the small station of Pachora, 250 miles northeast of Mumbai, Lord Ganesha was waiting.

A man costumed as the Hindu god was carried by turbaned attendants and accompanied by folk dancers who whirled to ancient stringed instruments, reedy horns and hand drums. Ganesha sported a pinkish elephant head, complete with trunk and oversize ears, but he blessed us with a very human hand. Locals must have felt like the circus had arrived in town, for despite the early hour, they had come to watch the welcome arranged specially for us.

It was appropriate to be greeted by the god of good fortune: We were a lucky group—passengers taking a 2,000-mile journey from Mumbai to New Delhi on the Maharajas' Express, one of the most luxurious trains in the world. Read More

A train vacation offers scenery, romance and nostalgia like no other holiday can. Purvaja Sawant shortlists some of the world's well-known luxury trains that provide comfort, style and service, a la royalty

Maharajas' Express, India

The latest luxury offering in India, a tour on this train will transport you back to the era of elegant travelling, reminiscent of the romance of Indian Maharajas. There are five pan-Indian journeys offered by the Maharajas Express, which include two golden triangle tour itineraries covering cities like Jaipur, Agra and Delhi. Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities such as Wi-Fi internet, individual climate control and luxury restaurants, the train can carry a total of 84 passengers in elegantly appointed cabins, including a lavish presidential suite spanning over an entire carriage!

Rovos Rail, South Africa

Established in 1989, Rovos Rail is said to be the most luxurious train in the world offering an old-world elegance. Celebrated for its teak equipment, the train boasts of a stellar dining place, amazing South African wine list, and friendly on-board service. The coaches have been painstakingly rebuilt with fine teak panelling, traditional furnishings and period decor. Journeys on this train are made up of a series of departures, lasting from 24 hours to a fortnight. It winds through Africa's most beautiful and vivid scenery, ranging from farmlands and mountains to vineyards and forests. It can accommodate up to 72 passengers in its 36 royal, deluxe and pullman suites.

Venice-Simplon Orient Express, Europe

Popularised by author Agatha Christie in her thriller novel Murder on the Orient Express, the train still runs on the legendary route from Paris to Istanbul, since it first took the course in 1889. Its six-night trip includes guided tours in Budapest, Sinaia, Bucharest and Varna and offers its passengers ample time to enjoy the luxurious amenities of the train - champagne poured by white-gloved hands and lavish cabins - while taking in the breathtaking sights and sounds of Europe.

The Blue Train, South Africa

This train combines the luxury of the world's leading hotels with the charm of train travel and has had many kings and presidents as its customers. It runs eight times a month between Pretoria and Cape Town. One of its USPs is its authentic South African cuisine - dishes like Karoo lamb, Kabeljou, Knysna oysters and Impala. The route is a 27-hour journey and includes a sightseeing stop in each direction.

Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/travel/Embark-on-a-luxurious-rail-journey/articleshow/28703355.cms