How Long Is the Route 1 Luxury Train Drive? Distance, Time & What to Expect

When you hear about a Route 1 (Maharaja Express) is the flagship itinerary of the Maharaja Express, one of India’s premier luxury trains. It promises opulent cabins, gourmet meals, and an inside‑look at heritage sites - but how long does the drive actually take? Below you’ll find the full breakdown: distance covered, average speed, day‑by‑day schedule, and tips to make the most of every mile.

Quick Summary

• Route 1 covers roughly 1,800 km (1,120 mi) across northern and western India.
• The journey spans 4 nights and 5 days, averaging 12‑14 hours of running time per day.
• Key stops include Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur, each with curated excursions.
• Average speed is about 55 km/h (34 mph) when the train is moving.
• Best time to travel: October‑March, when the climate is mild and festivals add color.

What Is Route 1?

Maharaja Express is a world‑class luxury train operated by Indian Railways in partnership with the Indian Federation of Tour Operators. Route 1 is the flagship circuit that starts and ends in Delhi, weaving through the golden triangle of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The train itself is a refurbished 24‑carriage marvel, featuring 12 luxury cabins, a fine‑dining restaurant, a lounge, and even a bar‑car that rivals five‑star hotels.

Distance and Travel Time - The Numbers

The total rail distance for Route 1 is approximately 1,800 kilometers. The schedule allocates about 48 hours of actual movement, spread over five days. That works out to an average cruising speed of 55 km/h, which is standard for Indian long‑distance passenger trains when you factor in station stops and scenic slow‑downs.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the daily run times:

1. Day 1 - Delhi to Agra: 200 km, 4 hours.
2. Day 2 - Agra to Jaipur: 240 km, 6 hours (including a stop for the Taj Mahal sunrise).
3. Day 3 - Jaipur to Udaipur: 410 km, 9 hours (with a lunch halt at Ranakpur).
4. Day 4 - Udaipur to Jodhpur: 280 km, 7 hours (including a camel‑safari side‑trip).
5. Day 5 - Jodhpur back to Delhi: 670 km, 22 hours (split into two night‑time legs for comfort).

These figures include the customary 30‑minute platform breaks at each major station, as well as the curated excursion time that is part of the luxury experience.

Day‑by‑Day Itinerary

Understanding the schedule helps you pack smartly and set expectations. Below is the typical 5‑day flow for Route 1.

• Day 1 - Arrival in Delhi: Guests are whisked from the airport to the train’s private lounge. After a welcome dinner, the train departs for Agra at 6 pm.
• Day 2 - Agra Excursion: Early morning stop at the Taj Mahal for a private viewing. The train returns to the lounge for brunch, then heads to Jaipur in the afternoon.
• Day 3 - Jaipur Exploration: Guided tours of Amber Fort, City Palace, and a traditional Rajasthani lunch at a heritage haveli.
• Day 4 - Udaipur Leisure: A boat ride on Lake Pichola followed by a sunset dinner on the deck.
• Day 5 - Jodhpur and Return: Visit the Mehrangarh Fort, then a long night journey back to Delhi, arriving the next morning.

Every evening, the train’s chefs craft a multi‑course dinner featuring regional specialties - think Rajasthani dal‑baati‑churma, Gujarati thali, and Delhi‑style kebabs.

How Route 1 Compares to Other Luxury Routes

If you’re torn between Route 1 and other itineraries, the table below gives a side‑by‑side look at the two most popular circuits offered by the Maharaja Express.

Route 1 remains the favorite for first‑time luxury‑train travelers because it hits the iconic heritage sites while keeping travel time manageable.

Tips to Maximize Your Route 1 Experience

• Pack Light, Pack Smart: Cabin space is generous but limited. Bring versatile clothing for both hot days in Rajasthan and cooler evenings on the train.
• Book Early for Seasonal Demand: October through March is peak season. Secure your cabin at least 4‑6 months ahead.
• Embrace the On‑Board Activities: The train offers yoga sessions, wine tasting, and a heritage talk by a local historian - all included in the fare.
• Plan for Jet Lag: If you fly into Delhi from abroad, give yourself a half‑day to rest before boarding. The train’s first night is a gentle glide out of the city.
• Use the Concierge Service: The staff can arrange private guides, extra photo‑ops, or even a surprise birthday cake in the lounge.

Booking, Pricing and What’s Included

Route 1’s base fare starts at USD 4,500 per person for a double‑occupancy cabin. The price bundles:

• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, minibar).
• All excursions listed in the itinerary.
• All onboard entertainment and amenities.
• Tax and service charge.

Optional add‑ons include a private helicopter transfer to the Taj Mahal at sunrise (extra USD 300) or a night‑time wildlife safari near Jodhpur (extra USD 250).

Frequently Asked Questions

Next Steps - Planning Your Trip

Now that you know the distance, time, and highlights, it’s time to act. Contact a certified luxury‑train agent, confirm your travel dates, and secure a cabin. Remember to arrange your Indian visa early, pack light, and set aside a few evenings for the on‑board cultural programs that make Route 1 more than just a train ride-it’s a curated journey through India’s royal heritage.