Luxury Train Journey Duration: How Long Do India’s Premium Rail Trips Really Last?

When you think of a luxury train journey, a high-end rail experience offering fine dining, private cabins, and curated excursions through scenic landscapes. Also known as royal train tours, it’s not just about getting from point A to B—it’s about the experience itself. In India, these journeys aren’t just travel—they’re immersive storytelling on rails, blending history, culture, and comfort. But how long do they actually last? That’s the question most travelers miss until they’re booking.

India’s top luxury trains don’t follow the same schedule. The Palace on Wheels, a regal train that takes guests through Rajasthan’s forts, deserts, and palaces, typically runs for 7 nights, covering Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur. Meanwhile, the Deccan Odyssey, a train that explores Maharashtra and Goa with stops at temples, beaches, and wildlife reserves, offers 3-night, 5-night, and 7-night itineraries depending on your pace. Then there’s the Golden Chariot, a southern gem that weaves through Karnataka’s heritage sites like Hampi and Mysore, with trips lasting either 7 or 8 days. These aren’t quick getaways—they’re designed to let you slow down, savor the views, and wake up in a new world every morning.

Shorter trips exist too. Some operators now offer 2-night luxury train hops between cities like Agra and Jaipur for travelers short on time but still craving the elegance. But the real magic happens when you commit to the full duration—where the train becomes your moving hotel, your dining room, and your private tour guide all in one. The longer the journey, the deeper the immersion: morning camel rides in the Thar Desert, afternoon temple visits with private guides, sunset cocktails on the deck as the hills roll by. It’s not just about the miles covered—it’s about the moments stacked between them.

If you’re considering one of these journeys, don’t just check the price tag. Look at the itinerary. Does it give you enough time to truly explore each stop? Or are you rushing from platform to palace? Most travelers who return say it’s the duration that made the difference—not the gold-plated taps or the silk bedding. It’s the space to breathe, to wander without a clock, to let the rhythm of the rails settle into your bones.

Below, you’ll find real guides that break down exactly what each luxury train offers—how long they run, what’s included, where they stop, and how to pick the one that fits your style. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo pilgrimage through India’s grandeur, the right duration makes all the difference.