Luxury Rail Travel in India 2025 | Best Trains, Routes & Experiences

- Jan 17, 2025
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India offers luxury train journeys to the visitors who are seeking to explore the rich landscapes, heritage and unique culture of the country. The Indian railways provides you the opportunity to visit the most stunning locations while traveling in some of the best luxurious trains of the world. It becomes easier for you to explore scenic landscapes, history, and culture of the country through luxury rail travel India. Rail travels are always the cheapest and most affordable form of travel in India which is suitable for all groups of people from upper class to middle class.
So, to set up a budget-friendly trip to India while booking train tickets, explore the India tour packages, look at the best train ticket fares and grab the best offers. In this blog, we will come to know about the best luxury trains in India 2025, luxury train vacations, luxury train routes and much more. From experiencing the diverse charm of the country to exploring ancient temples and royal palaces, luxury rail journeys in India offer you all you need!
Top 10 Best Luxury Trains in India in 2025
1. Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train in India
Deccan Odyssey is a luxury train of India providing a unique travel experience to all parts of India with a complete cultural exploration. This train covers all major Indian cities such as Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Goa and Mumbai. Along with a comfortable journey, you can get other features here such as onboard entertainment, spa services, fine dining and lavish cabins. This railway is aimed to provide a royal experience to all its travellers while showcasing scenic landscapes, royal palaces and rich heritage of the country.
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Cost: The cost of the train depends on the type of cabin you have selected. For international travellers’ deluxe cabins, the price for single occupancy is Rs. 719120 and the price for twin/double occupancy is Rs. 1027315. For international travellers' presidential suite cabins, the price for single, twin and double occupancy is Rs. 1540973.
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Route (City Covered): The train travels through Delhi, Sawai Madhopur, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Vadodara, Aurangabad and Mumbai.
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Attractions: There are various places to visit in India and by travelling through Deccan Odyssey Luxury train, you can visit historical landmarks like Tadoba National Park, Ajanta and Ellora caves, Taj Mahal, Mehrangarh fort, Hampi, Nashik, Aurangabad, Pench National Park, Gir Forest, Hampi, explore Goa’s beaches and famous Mumbai’s spots.
2. Palace on Wheels Luxury Train in India
The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train designed for the luxurious travels of great Maharajas and rulers of Rajasthan and their guests. The train offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional Indian decor with lavishing interiors. You can find other facilities in this train such as a spa, bar, dining restaurants, fine cabins, etc. Its remarkable service and luxurious services make it a popular choice for luxury travel in India.
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Cost: The prices of Palace on Wheels single occupancy range from Rs. 4,50,00 to Rs. 5,50,000 per person. The prices for double occupancy range from Rs. 3,00,000 to Rs. 3,75,000 per person and the prices for Super Deluxe Suite ranges from Rs. 9,50,000 to Rs. 10,00,000 per couples.
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Route (City Covered): The train crosses Delhi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, Agra Cantonment and finally arrives at Delhi.
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Attractions: The main attractions for Palace on Wheels luxury train are Hawa Mahal, Ranthambore National Park, Taj Mahal, Bharatpur bird sanctuary, romantic spot of Agra Fort, Amber Fort Jaipur, Chittorgarh Fort, Lake Pichola Udaipur, Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
3. Maharaja Express Luxury Train in India
Maharaja Express is a luxury tourist train, operated by Indian Railway and Tourism Corporation, is the world’s leading luxury train. Started In March 2010, this train consists of 23 carriages along with lounge, bar, dining, accommodation, store cars, souvenir shop, library and generator facilities. The train comprises guest cabins, water filtration plant, private bars and a lounge named as Rajah Club. The passenger bedrooms are equipped with DVD players, LCD TVs and wifi facilities are provided to the passengers.
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Cost: The prices of Maharaja Express per person ticket depends on the type of accommodation and itinerary selected by you. The average price for this train ranges between Rs 6,54,880 to Rs 21,03,210 per person.
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Route (City Covered): Maharaja Express Luxury train offers four different tour packages to the visitors, the route and cities covered in these packages are as mentioned.
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Heritage of India package begins in Mumbai ending at Delhi covering the main cities of Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Fatehpur Sikri and Agra.
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Indian Splendour package starts from Delhi ending in Mumbai covering the main cities of Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur and Udaipur.
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The Indian Panorama package starts from Delhi and the journey comes to an end on the seventh day at Delhi covering the main cities of Jaipur, Ranthambore and Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Khajuraho, Orchha and Varanasi.
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Attractions: Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park, Amber Fort, Hotel Rambagh Palace, Junagarh Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, Khaas Bagh heritage hotel, Lake Pichola and Fateh Prakash Palace are main attractions of Maharaja express heritage package.
4. Golden Chariot Luxury Train in India
Golden Chariot is a window to the soul of South India which offers you a perfect blend of leisure and adventure to enjoy your dream India Luxury Train Vacations in Southern India. The main travel packages of Golden Chariot are Pride of Karnataka, Glimpses of Karnataka and Jewels of South. The interiors of the train are inspired by the extravagant lifestyle and royal artwork of India which make this train the best passage for modern queens and kings.
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Cost: The ticket price of Golden Chariot Deluxe cabin costs you Rs. 398160 for these packages 'Jewels of South' (5N/6D) & 'Pride of Karnataka with Goa' (5N/6D). The price of 'Glimpses of Karnataka' (3N/4D) package via Golden Chariot is Rs.265440.
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Route (City Covered): The route of the Pride Of Karnataka package of Golden Chariot is as mentioned, Bengaluru -Bandipur -Mysore -Halebidu -Chikamgaluru -Hampi -Pattadakal & Aihole -Goa Bengaluru.
The cities covered in Jewels of South (6 Days/5 Nights) package are Bengaluru, Kumarakom, Mahabalipuram, Cochin, Hampi, Mysore, Chettinad and Thanjavur.
The route of Glimpses of Karnataka package of Golden Chariot which is for (3 Nights / 4 Days) is Bengaluru -Bandipur -Mysore -Hampi and Bengaluru.
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Attractions: The prominent attractions for the Pride of Karnataka package of Golden Chariot are Bandipur Wildlife sanctuary, Mysore Palace, Halebidu, Chikamgaluru, churches of North Goa.
The prominent attractions for Jewels of South (6 Days/5 Nights) package are Mysore Palace, Chengalpattu Railway Station, Beachfront hotel, Athnagudi tile factory, Chettinad mansions, Mattancherry Palace, and St. Francis Church.
The prominent attractions for Glimpses of Karnataka package of Golden Chariot are Mysore Palace, Srirangapatnam, Hampi ruins and Bengaluru (YPR).
5. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Luxury Train in India
Royal Rajasthan on Wheels has marked the origin of royal train journeys in India. Laterly introduced in the year 1982, this train provides you a complete opulence for a romantic journey to Rajput princes. The palace on wheels is the first luxury train of India that offers you a royal heritage trip throughout the country. It was the first choice for Maharajas of Rajasthan and Nizams of Hyderabad. Royal Rajasthan provides a golden casket that memorializes a lifetime of memories that are unsurpassed. This train offers passengers a splendid journey, world-class hospitality and excellent transportation facility to travel to different parts of the country.
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Cost: The price of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels per person is Rs. 5,01,984 for 'Deluxe Cabin on Double Occupancy', Rs. 15,27,449 for Super Deluxe Cabin (Per Cabin) and Rs. 18,72,563 for Presidential Suite (Per Cabin).
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Route (City Covered): The route of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is as mentioned date wise.
Day 1: New Delhi Depart
Day 2: Jaipur
Day 3: Ranthambore & Chittor
Day 4: Udaipur
Day 5: Jaisalmer
Day 6: Jodhpur
Day 7: Bharatpur & Agra
Day 8: New Delhi Return
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Attractions: The main attractions for Royal Rajasthan on Wheels are St. Albert Museum, Hawa Mahal, Birla Hindu Temple, Amer's Hill Fort Palace, Raj Palace Hotel, City Palace, Palace Museum & Jantar Mantar, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, Chittorgarh Hill Fort, Lake Palace Hotel, Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel, Saheliyon Ki Bari Royal Gardens, Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Sam sand Dunes in Thar Desert, Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Agra Fort and Taj Mahal.
6. Fairy Queen Luxury Train in India
Fairy Queen is the oldest Steam Locomotive of the world which was built in the year 1855. Fairy Queen holds the Guinness World Record, being the oldest locomotive of the world. This is a 60 seater train with conditioned chair car which is specially designed with a large glass window to take the complete countryside view and there are pantry cars to provide you food and catering services while travelling in this train. It has a beautiful lounge operating at Delhi-Rewari–Delhi route. The train provides a day journey and there’s no overnight stay for passengers however, the night stay facilities are provided to the passengers at Sariska Palace Hotel and there are numerous cultural programs that you can enjoy after the sunset.
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Cost: The prices of Fairy Queen Luxury Train ranges from Rs. 7,500 to Rs.15,200 depending on the taxes and packages.
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Route (City Covered):Fairy Queen runs on 2nd and 4th Saturdays during Oct-March. The route of this train is Delhi to Alwar, Alwar to Sariska, Sariska to Alwar and finally departing from Alwar to Delhi.
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Attractions: The most prominent luxury train India attractions in case of Fairy Queen are Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Jantar Mantar, Bahai Temple, Humayun's Tomb, beautiful Aravallis, Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, Bala Quila, Vinay Vilas Mahal, Tarang Sultan's Tomb, JaiSamand Lake of Alwar and Sariska palace.
7. Royal Orient Luxury Train in India
Royal Orient Train offers a royal and fascinating experience to its passengers which makes it the best luxurious trains in the world. The main theme of this train is Palace on Wheels that stimulates a sense of royalty. The main aspect of this train is the royal richness that it facilitates to the passengers where you have the opportunity to feel the true taste of Rajasthan. This provides you a royal voyage to the rich cultural states of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The journey provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the sights of the region as well as take a desert safari for a memorable trip.
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Cost: The price of Royal Orient Train varies with the type of selected cabin and your selected tour package. The price may range from Rs. 2,72,000 to Rs. 16,82,000 per person.
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Route (City Covered): The main cities covered by Royal Orient are Delhi, Chittorgarh in Rajasthan, Udaipur, Jaipur, Junagarh, Veraval, Sasangir, Dilwara, Palitana, Sarkhej, Ahmedabad in Gujarat.
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Attractions: The prominent attractions of Royal Orient are Red Fort, Chandani Chowk, Raj Ghat, Shanti Van, Humayun's Tomb, Purana Quila, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Rashtrapati Bhawan, Jantar Mantar, Jama Masjid, Safardarjung's Tomb and Rajghat, Sasan Gir National Park, Chittorgarh Fort, Lake Palace of Udaipur, Lake Pichola, Udaipur City Palace, Jag Mandir, Sahelion Ki Bari, Vintage Classic Car Museum, Darbar Hall Museum, Junagadh Shivratri Mela, Vimal Vashi Temple, Chaumukh Temple, Sarkhej Mausoleum and Mosque, Gandhi Ashram, Sidi Sayed Mosque, Bhadra Fort, Hathisingh Jain Temple, Jaipur City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort, and Jantar Mantar in Jaipur.
8. Mahaparinirvan Express Luxury Train in India
Mahaparinirvan Express, operated by Indian Railway and Tourism Corporation, is a Buddhist pilgrimage train that offers a luxurious and comfortable travel experience to the passengers. Launched on 28 March 2007, the main aim of this train was to attract buddhist pilgrims from all parts of the world and it provides Buddhists a seven night spiritual tour across Nepal and North India. The passengers are taught important Buddhist lessons, Mahaparinirvana Sutras and key principles of Buddhism during the journey. The train offers different travel classes such as first class, three-tier and two tier. If you want to explore the peaceful vibes of Buddhism while embracing the calm spirit of Buddhist religion, this train provides you a fantastic voyage.
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Cost: The prices of Mahaparinirvan Express, 2nd AC Sleeper are Rs. 62,800 (Indian Nationals) and 945 dollars (foreign nationals). The prices for 1st AC Sleeper are Rs. 76,800 (Indian Nationals) and 1155 dollars (foreign nationals).
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Route (City Covered): The route and prominent cities covered by Mahaparinirvan Express are Delhi, Varanasi, Nalanda, Sarnath, Nautanwa, Gorakhpur, Agra, Gaya, Rajgir, Kushinagar and Balrampur.
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Attractions: The main attractions for Mahaparinirvan Express are Vishnupad temple in Gaya, Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya, Maha Bodhi Temple, Niranjana River, Sujatha Temple, Buddha Temple Rajgir, Bimbisara Jail, Gridhakuta Hills, Venuvana Monastery, Nalanda Ruins, Nalanda International University, Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath Museum, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, Parinirvan Stupa, Rambhar Stupa, Matha Kuar Shrine, Ashokan Pillar, Mayadevi Temple, Sahet Mahet and Taj Mahal.
9. IRCTC Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train
This Buddhist train takes you to some prominent Buddhist destinations to experience the self disciplined legendary life of Buddha. This journey deepens your knowledge on Buddhist legacy and the path adopted by Buddha to gain enlightenment. Buddhism Circuit Tourist Train's itinerary includes the site of Buddha's original sermon which gave birth to Buddhist religion and its propagation to other countries of the world. This voyage is a must visit for all aspirants who wish to get deeper insight about Buddhist religion, major teachings and its branches. You can make a journey to prominent Buddha Stupas, viharas and Buddha Chaityas which gives you a complete religious experience. So, do not miss any opportunity to discover the path of enlightenment via your journey in this Buddhist train.
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Cost: The price of ticket depends on the class of travel and number of passengers. The average price for AC 1st Class per person is Rs 14,375 per day and the average price for AC 2nd Class per person is Rs 11,875 per day.
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Route (City Covered): The route of prominent Buddhist pilgrimage destinations are mentioned below daywise:
Day 1: Delhi
Day 2: Bodh Gaya
Day 3: Rajgir and Nalanda
Day 4: Varanasi
Day 5: Lumbini
Day 6: Kushinagar
Day 7: Sravasti
Day 8: Agra
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Attractions: The main attractions of IRCTC Buddhist Circuit are Niranjana River, Buddha Statue Bodhgaya, Mahabodhi Temple, Bimbisara Jail, Sujatha Temple, Gridhakuta Hill and Venuvan, Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath Museum, Ashokan Pillar, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Monastery, Maya Devi Temple, Ashokan Pillar, Sahet Mahet, Mahaparinirvan Temple, Mata Kutir Temple, Sacred Rambhar Stupa, Jetavana Vihara Monastery and more.
10. Heritage on Wheels Luxury Train in India
Heritage on Wheels offers you a luxurious train journey to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. The carriages of the train are elegantly designed that feature beautiful interiors, fine dining options and other personalized services. There are separate dressing rooms, bedrooms, dining facilities and personal washroom facilities for the passengers. There is a separate lounge where you can enjoy music and dances and a separate library facility is provided to enjoy a wide range of board games in the train while reading a variety of useful books on travels, historical fictions and other comics. The thirteen deluxe coaches of the train are named after prominent palaces of Rajasthan which are Hawa Mahal, Umaid Palace, Chandra Mahal, Kumbha Palace, Surya Mahal, Jogi Mahal, Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sukh Mahal, Jal Mahal, Kishori Mahal and Padmini Mahal. To experience the royal life of Maharaja, book this train at the highest priority!
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Cost: The prices of Heritage on Wheels Luxury Train are as mentioned in the below table for different occupancies. The average prices for Heritage on Wheels during peak season are Rs. 2,91,330 per cabin per night for presidential suites, Rs. 1,24,583 per person per night for single occupancy and Rs. 81,008 per person per night for double occupancy. At the time of lean seasons, the price of single occupancy is Rs. 39,000 per person per night and the price of double occupancy is approximately Rs. 30,000 per person per night.
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Route (City Covered): The route of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels comprises the historical sites of Agra, Bharatpur, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Jaisalmer and Jaipur.
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Attractions: The prominent attractions for Heritage on Wheels are Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal and City Palace of Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Udaipur City Palace, Crystal Gallery of Udaipur, Gadsisar Lake, Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal Ji ki Haveli, Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Museum, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Ghana National Park, Agra Fort and Taj Mahal.
What to Expect From Luxury Trains In India
The tour through the prominent Indian states on a luxurious train would be a great adventure just like royal treatment right from the starting. The coaches of such trains are prepared with luxury cabins, fine dining, and even a spa inside. In fact, richly upholstered linens, the sheen of intricately polished wooden furniture can itself suggest a taste of royal India voyage. A luxury holiday travel experience is just incomparable to the travel experiences aboard Indian trains, with most of them having opulence mingled with rich cultural heritage. Most of the luxury tours will take travelers to the discovery of iconic landmarks, historical and dramatic scenery-each a destination permitting complete immersion in the culture. The high-end personalized service and the tranquil ambiance promise a journey on board an Indian luxury train that is incomparable in its balance of adventure and relaxation hence, providing the best travel experience to the customers all over the world.
Facilities In Luxury Trains In India 2025
The luxury trains of India provide numerous facilities to the passengers all over the world from lavishing interiors to delicious dining facilities. There is a wide range of accommodations these luxury trains in India provide to the passengers to make your travel enjoyable and comfortable, which are as listed for you.
Lavish interiors: With handcrafted details and opulent interior accommodations, luxury trains draw inspiration from India's royal history. Passengers can expect a splendid interior with modern amenities and intricate designs to enjoy a comfortable journey.
Gourmet Dining: Enjoy the delicious taste of international cuisine and regional recipes in fine dining restaurants.
Spa facilities: You can explore new spas to make your body feel relaxed, comfortable and happy. You can get all types of relaxation therapies at these fitness centers.
Entertainment: There are many entertainment options available for you such as Television, board games and many other interior games. Also, do not miss any opportunity to read interesting comics at the library center!
Suite Rooms: Large and comfortable rooms that are designed for comfortable stay, complete with modern facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, Television and en-suite bathroom.
Personalized Service: You will be taken care of by staff who make sure it is a personal experience where an easy service is provided to you, from guides to butlers.
Excursions: Every guided tour promises a glance into the cultural highlights and natural spectacles.
Conclusion
Luxury rail travels offers you a comfortable and luxury voyage to explore beautiful landscapes and rich culture of the country. The best luxury trains of India offer you the best experience to enjoy at the luxury train routes in India and you are offered with high quality bedroom facilities, gourmet dining options, regional cuisines curated by top chefs and thrilling entertainment options. The rail travels to the most iconic destinations of India not just enhances your knowledge on history and iconic culture of the country but you are also offered with world-class amenities and royal voyage, in the most democratic country of the world, that you never forget. So, just select the most luxurious train tour package that matches with your preference and budget to start your royal journey. Whether you are searching to explore historical and cultural aspects of the country or want to experience royalty, a luxury train vacation guarantees you a memorable experience of all times!
FAQ’s
1.What is the best luxury train in India in 2025?
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Maharaja Express is regarded as the best luxurious train of India which is known for its world-class amenities, excellent interiors, royal services and remarkable opulence.
2. How much does a luxury train experience cost in India?
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The cost of a luxury train ranges from Rs. 400,000 to Rs. 20,00,000 depending on the type of train and the selected itinerary. The price may also vary depending on the type of room selected by you.
3. Can I book a luxury train experience online in 2025?
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Yes, you can book your selected luxury train journey in India either through authorized travel agencies or by applying directly on their official websites. The online booking saves your time enabling you to go with an advance booking for your travel.
4.What documents do I need to travel on a luxury train in India?
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The important documents required while traveling via luxury trains are valid passport, train tickets, Indian travel visa for foreign travelers and other relevant travel insurance documents.