India's luxury trains are known for their opulent interiors, stunning views, and, of course, their delicious cuisine. On these trains, travelers can enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes that show how India's cuisine is varied and full of flavor.
For gourmands who are looking to experience a unique culinary journey, India’s luxury trains offer a tantalizing experience. From colorful spices to lip-smacking dishes, the sumptuous cuisines of India’s luxury trains will delight your taste buds and leave you with an unforgettable experience. On board these trains, you’ll be served a plethora of traditional dishes, including curries, savory snacks, and delectable desserts. Each dish is prepared with the finest ingredients, including fresh vegetables and herbs, and the flavors are sure to entice your palate.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a family feast, India’s luxury trains have something for everyone.
An Introduction to Indian Luxury Trains and Their Food
India’s luxury trains boast some of the most inventive and flavorful dishes in the world. From the delectable biryani varieties to the savory curries and succulent kebabs, luxury train passengers can savor a variety of flavors from all over India. The chefs on these luxury trains take traditional recipes and add their own unique twists. Some of the most popular dishes include Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, and Paneer Makhani, all of which feature rich, creamy sauces that complement the spicy flavors of the dishes.
In addition to the North Indian and Mughlai dishes, luxury trains in India also serve continental and Chinese cuisine. Passengers can enjoy a variety of pastas, pizzas, and other European-style dishes. Chinese dishes such as sweet and sour pork, chow mein, and egg fried rice are also on offer.
The meals served on luxury trains in India are a true culinary experience. Not only do they provide passengers with a taste of India’s finest cuisine, but they also provide a unique opportunity to savor the sights and sounds of the country as they travel. India’s luxury trains are the perfect way to experience the country’s culture, cuisine, and hospitality.
DECCAN ODYSSEY
The train route was introduced in 2005 to increase tourism in Maharashtra and takes passengers through the states of Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka. The Deccan Odyssey features two international dining venues, Peshwa I and Peshwa II, staffed by waiters dressed in traditional Maharashtrian garb. Travelers can pick and choose from a wide variety of Indian, Oriental, and Continental specialties. From 2010 to 2019, it was recognized as "Asia's Leading Luxury Train" (or "Blue Train"), named for its blue coaches.
The restaurants are known for their lavish spreads of curries, kebabs, and biryanis, as well as their desserts, which include traditional Indian sweets like gulab jamun and rasmalai. In addition to the multi-cuisine restaurant, the Deccan Odyssey also has a bar car and a lounge car, which offer a variety of cocktails and light snacks.
MAHARAJA EXPRESS
IRCTC's flagship luxury train, the Maharaja Express, features deluxe cabins, junior suite cabins, suites, and presidential suites, among other amenities. From 2020 to 2022, the Maharajas' Express wasrecognized as Asia's leading luxury train. The Rang Mahal and Mayur Mahal are two incredible restaurants that serve not just Mewar cuisine but also dishes from other regions of Rajasthan, tikka dishes from Mumbai, and thalis from different parts of India, like the Punjabi thali. Chinese, European, and Kosher dishes share space on the restaurant's global menu.
In addition to the dining cars, the Maharajas' Express also offers private dining experiences in its Presidential Suite and Maharaja Suite. The train's team of chefs prepares these upscale dinners, and waiters dressed in traditional Indian garb serve them.
Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
A joint venture between the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways, the train features a combination of modern and traditional elements in its design. It includes Rajasthan's regal attractions in addition to the likes of Agra, Khajuraho, and Varanasi. The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels train is known for its lavish and opulent cuisine at its multi-cuisine restaurant, which serves a range of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes.
There is a wide range of food and drink available on board, from the traditional Rajasthani thali (with dal, batti, and churma) to Chinese chow chow and international continental cuisine. Not just that, the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels also has a bar car and a lounge car, which offer a variety of cocktails and light snacks.
Palace on Wheels
This first-of-its-kind luxury train provides an unforgettable experience with 5-star service and custom-designed itineraries. The Palace on Wheels, which debuted in 1982 and is often referred to as "India's original luxury train," features not one but two restaurants (the Maharaja and the Maharani) serving international cuisine, as well as a lounge bar.
Dal Maharani, mutton saagwala, methimalai mutter, tandoori chicken, paneer tikka, and dal makhani are just a few of the mouthwatering dishes available. There are also delicious options for meat eaters, such as tandoori chicken and mutton saagwala.
The Golden Chariot
The Golden Chariot train was designedin such a way as to link together pivotal moments that have shaped South Indian history over the course of several centuries. The week-long trip will take you to some of the best Karnataka attractions, including the magnificent heritage of Mysore and Hampi. In addition to the bar Madira, there are two restaurants where you can get Indian and other types of food: Ruchi and Nalapaka, with an impressive selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
The Golden Chariot also features a variety of international dishes, such as Italian pasta, French crepes, and Mexican tacos. The chefs use fresh ingredients and local spices to create dishes with a unique flavor.
India's luxury trains offer a unique and immersive culinary experience, showcasing the diverse and flavorful culinary traditions of the country. From the opulent dining cars to the private, personalized dinners in the Presidential Suite, these trains offer a taste of India that is truly unforgettable.
So, do you have your bags packed and are you ready for your next culinary adventure on one of India's luxury trains?