Obama in India: Will he accept an invite to travel the ultra-luxury Maharajas' Express to Agra?

The Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation has formally invited US President Barack Obama to travel on the $3000-a night ultra-luxury Maharajas' Express to Agra along with his family.

According to a report in the Economic Times, IRCTC Chairman and MD AK Manocha had said that the invitation had been sent to Obama through the proper channels after taking clearance from the Prime Minister's Office.

"We sent the invite over a week ago. Though we haven't heard from the US authorities, we still have hopes. The invite has not been rejected. He is expected to travel to Agra on January 27 and the ideal thing would be to travel royalty style on the Maharajas' Express. If there is a time constraint, he is welcome to take a short ride around Delhi or even come aboard for a meal," Manocha told Economic Times.

Each guest cabin in the train is equipped with spacious wardobes, and free Wi-Fi. Live television and CCTV cameras are installed in all public areas, and other facilities include a Direct International dial telephone facility, attached bathrooms, and a mini-bar. The Express also offers gourmet dining which includes lactose free meals, kosher meals, an ovo Lacto Veg Meal, gluten free meals, jain and vegan meals, and non-veg meals. Other highlights include royalty-style furnished suites as well as recreational activities and a treasure Chest, a high end boutique where you can shop for gifts and souvenirs. In addition smoke alarms, mini pantries with a round the clock paramedic and valet service is also available.

Maharaja Express

And if Obama does end up accepting the  invitation, it is sure to do wonders for luxury tourism in India.

India has already put security agencies on a nationwide alert for a militant strike in the lead-up to the visit. Obama is due in India for Republic Day ceremonies on 26 January, making this the first time a US president has attended the parade.

Obama will start his three-day visit on 25 January, during which several agreements are expected to be signed. He is scheduled to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra before returning to the US on January 27.

On the first day of his visit, the American President and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold comprehensive talks on the entire gamut of bilateral ties and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in key components, including civil nuclear and defence pacts.

The two sides had already decided to renew their pact for 10 years during a summit meeting in September in Washington, so as to start joint development and production of military hardware.

After their meeting, Modi and Obama will make press statements.

The US President will also attend a banquet in his honour by President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhawan, according to the information available.

On the second day, Obama is to take part in Indo-US CEO roundtable and on the final day of of the visit, he is expected to address a town hall. However, the time and place has not been finalised so far.