11 Royal Meal Experiences Aboard India's Luxurious Maharajas' Express Train
Dining on a train is a common experience, but imagine indulging in a royal feast aboard one of India's most luxurious trains, the Maharajas' Express. Operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, this train recreates the grandeur of bygone eras with personalized meal service, a lounge bar, and regal hospitality. It journeys through iconic destinations like Rajasthan, Agra, and Varanasi, offering passengers a blend of heritage, culture, and opulence. A highlight is the surreal dining experience in two fine-dining restaurant cars: Mayur Mahal Restaurant (Peacock Palace) and Rang Mahal Restaurant (Palace of Colors). The fare includes daily meals served on-board or during off-board trips, with guests able to select one complimentary wine from a large menu for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Each restaurant accommodates 42 guests at a time, with seating arranged in two-seater and four-seater styles. Here are the 11 royal meal experiences worth trying in a lifetime.
Lactose-Free Meal
Designed for lactose-intolerant travelers, this meal is prepared without any milk or milk-based ingredients such as butter, cheese, cream, or yogurt. In-house chefs use alternative ingredients like plant-based substitutes to maintain taste and luxury dining standards.
Ovo Lacto Veg Meal
This cuisine is made with plant-based ingredients, dairy products, and eggs. It excludes meat, fish, and poultry, offering a balanced vegetarian option with added protein from eggs.
Jain Meal
A complete vegetarian cuisine rooted in Jain principles of non-violence and mindful living, it rejects ingredients grown under the soil like onions, potatoes, and garlic. It focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients such as grains, lentils, fruits, and above-ground vegetables, cooked with minimal spices.
Vegan Meal
Strictly containing only plant-based ingredients, this meal excludes all animal-based products, including dairy. It promotes sustainability, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility, using alternatives like almond milk and soy products.
Kosher Meal
This meal adheres to Jewish dietary laws, with ingredients allowed per tradition. A key rule is the complete separation of meat and dairy, ensuring they are not cooked or consumed together, reflecting discipline and spiritual mindfulness.
Gluten-Free Meal
Ideal for gluten-intolerant individuals, this meal excludes breads, grains, and pastas. It focuses on naturally gluten-free foods like rice, corn, fruits, and legumes, with careful preparation to avoid cross-contamination.
Non-Vegetarian Meal
Including non-vegetarian dishes, starters, and soups, this meal offers high-quality protein, essential vitamins like B12, and minerals such as iron. Expect delicious options like slow-cooked curries, grilled meats, and seafood delicacies.
Vegetarian Meal
Made with plant-originated ingredients and dairy products, this meal includes grains, pulses, vegetables, fruits, and dairy like paneer and yogurt. Rich in fiber and antioxidants, it supports overall health and digestion.
Mewar Cuisine
An authentic rural-styled Indian cuisine served with fresh vegetables, meat, and fruits, it features unique cooking styles. Dishes are flavored with fresh water fish, millets, and corn, with royal options like steamed keema, phirni, and Paniyachurio made with crushed maize and jaggery. Traditionally cooked with coal and served in clay pots to retain aroma.
Other Indian Cuisines
Beyond Mewar, the train serves other Rajasthan cuisine dishes, Mumbai's tikka dishes, and regional thalis like Punjabi and Rajasthan thalis, offering a diverse taste of India.
International Cuisines
For an international experience, the train provides a wide range of delicacies from around the globe, including Chinese noodles and European pastries, ensuring everyone feels at home with global flavors.
