Palace on Wheels: The Iconic Luxury Train in India

Step aboard the Palace on Wheels, a luxury train in India that takes you on a unique adventure through India’s royal heritage. Recognized as one of the world’s top luxury trains, it combines the charm of Rajasthan’s stunning landscapes with the elegance of grand palaces, creating an unforgettable experience.
Each cabin is designed for your comfort, offering modern touches like Wi-Fi, a mini pantry, a music system, and a personal safe. Every saloon also includes a personal attendant (khidmatgar) to ensure your needs are met. The train’s interior reflects Rajasthan’s rich history, with each coach named after famous palaces and decorated in regal colors like ruby, turquoise, and pearl.

Dining on the train is a treat, with two restaurants—Maharaja and Maharani—serving a variety of freshly prepared international dishes. For some relaxation, there’s an Ayurvedic spa and cozy lounge bars. You can also stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

More than just a train ride, the Palace on Wheels invites you to step back into India’s royal past.

History of Palace on Wheels: A Legendary Luxury Train in India

The Palace on Wheels, India’s first luxury train, was created to provide a truly exceptional travel experience. Combining comfortable overnight journeys in air-conditioned sleeping cabins with daytime sightseeing tours in air-conditioned buses, this unique concept has remained the same over the years, offering travelers a luxurious way to explore Rajasthan.

Originally, these grand coaches were used by the rulers of princely states like Rajputana, Gujarat, the Nizam of Hyderabad, and even the Viceroy of British India. After independence, the coaches were retired, but in 1981-82, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways brought them back to life, launching the Palace on Wheels. This gave tourists a chance to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience aboard a Luxury Train in India, blending royal history with modern comfort.

The name Palace on Wheels, a Luxury Train in India, reflects the royal heritage of its original coaches. While the interiors have been modernized to ensure comfort, the regal charm has been preserved. In the late 1980s, the train shifted to meter-gauge with shared bathrooms, and by 1996, a broad-gauge version was introduced with private bathrooms in every cabin. In 2017, the train received a major upgrade with new, roomier carriages, offering guests the option to choose between Deluxe and Super Deluxe Cabins, ensuring an even more comfortable journey on this Luxury Train in India.

Facilities of Palace on Wheels: Experience the Finest Luxury Train in India

The Palace on Wheels, a well-known luxury train in India, offers a memorable travel experience with comfortable overnight stays in air-conditioned sleeping cabins and organized group sightseeing tours by air-conditioned buses during the day.

Key Features:

• 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins
• Onboard Restaurant Cars with Bar Lounges
• A Spa Car for relaxation
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access
• Dedicated Butler service for each cabin

Additional Information:

• The train runs on a 110/230 AC Volt electric supply, with multiple plug points in the cabins and bathrooms. Depending on your devices, bringing your own adaptors is recommended.
• Limited laundry services are available on certain days.
• As storage space is limited, guests are encouraged to pack soft-topped luggage similar to what’s used for air travel.
• The train is centrally air-conditioned, keeping the temperature at a comfortable 22°C.
• Please note, smoking is prohibited onboard.

The Palace on Wheels remains one of the best ways to explore Rajasthan, combining luxury, comfort, and a glimpse into India’s royal heritage.

The Palace on Wheels: An Exquisite Luxury Train in India

Start on an unforgettable adventure aboard the Palace on Wheels, one of India’s most iconic Luxury Trains in India, where you’ll explore the majestic landscapes of Rajasthan and travel in the style of ancient Maharajas. Rajasthan’s rich history and mystical beauty unfold as you experience a perfect blend of royal elegance and modern comfort on this renowned Luxury Train in India.

The journey starts every Wednesday evening from New Delhi and returns the following Wednesday morning. Over the course of 7 nights and 8 days, this luxury train covers more than 3,000 kilometers (1,850 miles), delivering a journey filled with opulence and grandeur.

Onboard, you’ll be transported to an era of kings and queens, with every detail evoking a sense of charm and wonder. With 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins, the Palace on Wheels accommodates up to 82 passengers, ensuring a personal and luxurious experience.

The Palace on Wheels offers more than just a journey—it’s an immersion into the royal heritage of India’s desert heartland, promising an enchanting and luxurious travel experience.

Palace on Wheels Train Route: Luxury Train in India

Day 1: Departure from New Delhi

Your unforgettable journey aboard one of India’s finest luxury trains begins at Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi. Arrive by 4:30 PM and receive a traditional royal welcome with garlands, a tikka, and an ornate turban. After check-in formalities, immerse yourself in the grandeur as our elegantly dressed staff assist you.

Your personal attendant will guide you to your luxurious cabin, giving a brief overview of the amenities awaiting you. Settle in and head to the Bar Lounge for a complimentary welcome drink, where you can relax and soak in the elegant surroundings. The train departs at 6:30 PM, and a sumptuous dinner will be served onboard, setting the tone for an extraordinary journey ahead.

Day 2: Jaipur, The Pink City

Wake up to a delicious breakfast onboard, then step into Jaipur, where a royal welcome awaits—complete with majestic elephants at the station. Your day starts with a visit to the stunning St. Albert Museum, followed by an exploration of the Pink City Palace and the impressive Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After a quick photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal, you’ll embark on an excursion to the Amber Fort. Enjoy an exciting elephant ride up the fort’s majestic ramparts before savoring lunch at the exclusive 1135 AD Boutique Restaurant, nestled within the fort itself.

Marvel at the breathtaking blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture as you explore the fort. In the afternoon, wander through the bustling local market, where you can pick up unique souvenirs. By 6:00 PM, you’ll return to the train, ready for your next destination. Dinner will be served onboard, offering a delightful end to your day.

The Palace on Wheels, a luxury train in India, promises elegance, history, and unforgettable experiences as you explore Rajasthan’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes with the finest hospitality.

Day 3: Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve and Chittorgarh Hill Fort

Early Morning: Safari Adventure

Start your day bright and early at 6:30 AM with an exciting jungle safari in 15-seater canters at the famous Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. This renowned wildlife sanctuary is home to a rich variety of animals, including the elusive Bengal tigers, panthers, sloth bears, pythons, marsh crocodiles, and a diverse array of deer and birds. It’s a dream destination for wildlife lovers and adventurers alike. After an unforgettable morning in the wild, return to the Sawai Madhopur Railway Station and reboard the Palace on Wheels, a Luxury Train in India, by 10:00 AM, where a delicious lunch awaits you onboard.

Afternoon: Chittorgarh Hill Fort

By 4:00 PM, the Palace on Wheels arrives at Chittorgarh Railway Station. From here, you’ll begin your journey to the magnificent Chittorgarh Hill Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 11th century. As the largest fort in India, its walls echo tales of bravery, valor, and royal grandeur.

In the evening, enjoy a captivating Sound & Light show within the fort’s complex, bringing its rich history to life through vivid displays and storytelling. After the show, return to the Luxury Train in India for a delightful dinner, with the Palace on Wheels set to depart after midnight.

This day blends thrilling wildlife encounters and a glimpse into India’s majestic past, offering an unforgettable chapter in your luxury train adventure.

Day 4: Udaipur, the City of Lakes

The Palace on Wheels arrives in Udaipur at 8:00 AM, and after breakfast onboard, you’re ready to explore this breathtaking city. Your day begins with a visit to the magnificent 17th-century City Palace, a sprawling complex with eleven grand Mahals, stunning balconies, and beautifully crafted towers. You’ll also get to admire the impressive Crystal Gallery, home to the personal collection of His Highness of Udaipur.

Next, enjoy a peaceful boat ride around the iconic Lake Palace Hotel, set on an island in the serene waters of Lake Pichola. Afterward, savor a luxurious lunch at the royal Fatehprakash Palace Hotel, where you’ll dine like royalty.

You’ll have some free time to explore Udaipur’s vibrant markets, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. Later, visit the charming Saheliyon Ki Bari, the Royal Gardens built for the queen and her maids, before heading back to the Luxury Train in India by 3:00 PM. As the train departs for your next destination, dinner will be served onboard, wrapping up yet another memorable day.

Day 5 (Sunday): Jaisalmer, Oasis in the Desert

Start your day with a delicious onboard breakfast before heading out at 9:30 AM to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jaisalmer Fort. This majestic fort, reminiscent of scenes from Arabian Nights, towers over Jaisalmer, its golden sandstone glowing under the sun. As you walk through the grand courtyards and impressive gates of this 15th-century fort, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by centuries of history.

Next, visit the breathtaking Patwon Ki Haveli, one of Jaisalmer’s largest and most intricately designed mansions. This five-story architectural masterpiece, with its delicate carvings, is a true marvel. Nearby, explore the beautifully carved Jain Temples, known for housing some of India’s oldest manuscripts, offering a unique insight into the country’s ancient spiritual traditions.

After a luxurious lunch at a 5-star hotel, return to the Luxury Train in India for a short rest and enjoy afternoon tea. By 4:30 PM, you’ll head out to the stunning Sam Sand Dunes in the heart of the Thar Desert for an unforgettable sunset camel ride. As the golden sands stretch out before you, soak in the beauty of the desert while the sun sets in the distance.

The evening will be filled with cultural performances and a lavish dinner at a 5-star hotel, showcasing the vibrant traditions of Rajasthan. Return to the train by 10:00 PM, ready for the next adventure that awaits on your luxury journey.

Day 6 (Monday): Jodhpur, Heart of Marwar

Arriving in Jodhpur at 8:00 AM, your Luxury Train in India journey continues with a delightful onboard breakfast. Begin your day exploring the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, a 16th-century fortress towering 125 meters above the city. As you walk through the fortified gates, designed to protect against enemy attacks, you’ll enter royal palatial apartments and vast courtyards that echo tales of the past. Inside, the fort’s museum offers a fascinating collection of royal garments and medieval weaponry, providing a glimpse into Jodhpur’s regal history.

Next, visit the peaceful Jaswant Thada, a stunning white marble memorial built in honor of the royal family. This serene spot is a perfect complement to the grandeur of Mehrangarh. Afterward, explore the museum at Umaid Bhawan Palace, where you’ll discover personal artifacts of the Maharaja of Jodhpur.

For lunch, indulge in a royal feast at the Hanwant Mahal Boutique Restaurant, savoring the flavors of Rajasthani cuisine. Afterward, return to the train and depart by 3:30 PM, as your royal journey continues. Dinner will be served onboard, ensuring a perfect end to another day filled with history and luxury.

Day 7 (Tuesday Early Morning): Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Begin your day at 6:30 AM with a peaceful visit to the UNESCO-listed Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Enjoy a calming cycle rickshaw ride through this vibrant sanctuary, home to over 375 bird species. Here, you’ll encounter a mix of local and migratory birds, with visitors flying in from as far as Sri Lanka, Europe, Siberia, China, and Tibet. After this delightful experience, return to your luxury train for a hearty breakfast and prepare to depart by 8:45 AM for your next destination.

Day 7 (Tuesday Noon): Agra, City of the Taj Mahal

Arrive on the outskirts of Agra by 10:30 AM, where your exploration of this historic city begins. First, visit the grand Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the powerful seat of the Mughal Empire. After immersing yourself in the fort’s rich history, enjoy a lavish lunch at the renowned ITC Mughal Hotel.

Next, prepare to be captivated by the iconic Taj Mahal. This world-famous white marble monument, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, stands as a symbol of eternal love and architectural perfection. After taking in its breathtaking beauty, enjoy some free time to shop and explore Agra’s local crafts.

Return to the luxury train for dinner and continue your journey to the next destination.

Day 8 (Wednesday): Return to New Delhi

The Palace on Wheels concludes its royal journey as it arrives at Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi by 5:30 AM. Enjoy an early breakfast onboard as you reflect on the incredible experiences of the past week. By 7:15 AM, it’s time to check out, marking the end of your unforgettable luxury journey.

Note:

• The Palace on Wheels on-board management may adjust tour timings depending on local conditions.
• Off-board meal locations are subject to availability and may vary during the journey.