Palace on Wheels Train
About The Train
This website is owned and managed by Tailormade Journeys Limited, located at 25 Grangewood, Slough SL3 6LP, United Kingdom. We operate solely as agents for selling the Palace on Wheels train, which is operated and maintained by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) in India, in partnership with M/s Cube Construction Engg Ltd and M/S Easy Toll Solutions Ltd.
As the official booking agents for the Palace on Wheels, Tailormade Journeys Limited handles ticket sales and reservations. The responsibility for operating the train, including catering, tours, and sightseeing, lies with RTDC and their O&M partners. Tailormade Journeys Limited and their partners are not responsible for any operational aspects of the train or related services.
Tailormade Journeys Limited does not own or operate the Palace on Wheels train. It is owned and operated by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC). We do not claim any rights to the trademark or logo of the Palace on Wheels; these belong to RTDC. Tailormade Journeys Limited only acts as the official booking agent for this luxury train service, helping travelers make reservations.
The Palace on Wheels journey takes you to the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, a symbol of love and architectural marvel. The adventure then continues to Bharatpur, where you’ll explore the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This bird sanctuary, home to thousands of migratory birds like Siberian cranes and egrets, offers a captivating experience for nature lovers. The journey concludes back in Delhi, wrapping up an unforgettable Maharaja Holiday where luxury, history, and nature come together for a truly remarkable travel experience.
The Palace on Wheels, launched on January 26, 1982, under the aegis of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways, stands as one of the world’s most prestigious luxury trains. Its name and essence are drawn from the royal heritage of its guest coaches, which are replicas of the personal carriages once used by Maharajas, Nizams, and Viceroys.
Rajasthan, known for its numerous kingdoms, majestic forts, and palaces, boasts a rich tapestry of diverse cultures and histories. The Palace on Wheels, a gleaming, royal carriage on its tracks, encapsulates the opulence of the Rajput kingdoms in a contemporary setting. The train features fourteen saloons, each designed with four twin-bedded chambers. These chambers come with attached baths, equipped with running hot and cold water and showers, ensuring a luxurious experience.
Every modern convenience has been meticulously integrated into the train’s design. Guests can relax on plush sofas, read by strategically placed lights, and rest on beautifully appointed beds with luxurious furnishings. Built-in wardrobes offer ample storage for clothes and bags, while large plain glass windows provide panoramic views of the rolling countryside. The silent air-conditioning ensures a comfortable environment, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of Rajasthan as they travel through its magnificent landscapes.
Outside the bedrooms, each coach on the Palace on Wheels boasts a comfortable seating lounge where passengers can relax, watch the cities pass by, or savor a quiet cup of tea. Every saloon is equipped with an attached pantry offering beverages and refreshments, complemented by calming piped music.
For a more social atmosphere, the train features a comfortable bar-cum-lounge where guests can unwind with their favorite drink, enjoy a good book, or engage in conversations with fellow travelers. Adjacent to the lounge are two exquisite restaurant cars, Maharaja and Maharani. These dining cars are adorned with opulent drapes, beautifully crafted lights, and elegant table settings. Skilled chefs serve a delectable variety of cuisines, including Indian, Rajasthani, Continental, and Chinese dishes, ensuring each meal is a feast for the palate.
Every Wednesday night, the Palace on Wheels leaves Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi for a week-long trip through Rajasthan, including a visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra. When you arrive at the station, friendly attendants in traditional turbans will welcome you and show you to your cabins, explaining the train’s amenities. The train travels overnight, so each morning you wake up in a new, interesting place with unique experiences to enjoy. This easy transition from one historic and cultural spot to another makes for a trip full of unforgettable memories.
Palace on Wheels Coaches
The coaches of the Palace on Wheels are named after the former princely states of Rajputana, showcasing Rajasthan’s rich heritage. Each coach has four deluxe cabins, beautifully decorated in ethnic Rajasthani style. Every cabin is equipped with channel music, hot and cold running water, a shower, attached toilets, an intercom, and wall-to-wall carpeting, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable travel experience. Each saloon also has a personal attendant, called a ‘Khidmatgar,’ who takes care of the guests’ needs around the clock, providing excellent service and personalized attention throughout the journey.
The 14 guest coaches of the Palace on Wheels are named after princely states and cities in Rajasthan, such as Alwar, Bharatpur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Each coach reflects the unique charm and decor of its respective region. Inside each saloon, you’ll find a mini pantry and a lounge with a television, DVD player, and a small library. Guests can enjoy hot and cold beverages, along with snacks, in this cozy space. The lounge is perfect for socializing and unwinding, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout the journey.
Palace on Wheels Bar
Meet other travelers at the bar on the Palace on Wheels for a drink and a chat. It’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring. The bar has many types of drinks, including international liquors, fine wines, and non-alcoholic options. Enjoy some tasty snacks with your drinks, making it a nice spot to unwind and socialize during your trip.
Palace on Wheels Cabins
The cabins of the Palace on Wheels showcase royal luxury and elegance. The train has 14 fully air-conditioned coaches, each with four cabins. There are 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins, all decorated to reflect the opulent lifestyle of Indian royalty. Inspired by the palaces of the Maharajas, the interiors feature rich silk fabrics, creating a beautiful and inviting atmosphere. These well-designed cabins offer guests a taste of the past’s grandeur, ensuring a comfortable and truly royal travel experience.
The antique wooden furniture with intricate designs gives each room a unique charm, and the padded beds in the cabins guarantee a restful night’s sleep. Every cabin comes with top-notch amenities, including a private bathroom with luxurious toiletries, an electronic safety deposit box, internet access, individual temperature control, and a telephone. A special touch is the personal attendant, called a Khidmatgar, who is dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs. This outstanding service, along with the luxurious and well-equipped cabins, ensures a comfortable and unforgettable journey on the Palace on Wheels.
Palace on Wheels Dining and Cuisine
Dining on the Palace on Wheels is a remarkable experience, featuring two royal restaurants, Maharaja and Maharani. These restaurants serve a delicious variety of Indian and international dishes, with a special focus on Rajasthani and Marwari cuisine, giving guests an authentic taste of the region’s culinary traditions. The skilled chef and his team maintain the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness, ensuring that guests can enjoy their meals with complete peace of mind.
The ambiance in both restaurants is warm and inviting, with luxurious fabrics, imported crockery, intricate glass carvings, mahogany paneling, beautiful chandeliers, and colorful wall lamps that perfectly fit the train’s royal theme. The elegant decor and top-notch service make for a welcoming atmosphere, providing exceptional hospitality. Every meal on the Palace on Wheels is more than just eating; it’s a royal feast that reflects the rich culinary traditions of India.
Palace on Wheels Sitting lounge
The sitting lounge on the Palace on Wheels is a great place to relax and chat with loved ones and fellow passengers. You can read a book from the collection or play indoor games. The lounge is perfect for socializing, with comfortable furniture, flower pots, and beautiful wall hangings adding charm to the space. It provides a peaceful setting for passengers to unwind and enjoy moments of leisure and companionship.
Palace on Wheels Spa
The latest feature on the Palace on Wheels is the Rejuvenation Spa Car, made for guests to enjoy luxury and comfort. The spa offers various Ayurvedic treatments, massages, and therapies. After a day of sightseeing, you can go to the spa to relax your mind and body with the help of expert therapists. The soothing decor of the spa creates a calm atmosphere, perfect for recharging your senses and making your trip even more enjoyable.
Facilities on the Palace on Wheels
Palace on Wheels: A Luxurious Journey with Modern Comforts
Luxurious Guest Carriages
The Palace on Wheels offers modern comforts and private facilities, with each guest carriage styled to mirror the luxurious private salons once used by Indian royalty. The cabins provide a peaceful, personal retreat where guests can read, unwind, or enjoy the breathtaking views through large windows.
Gourmet Dining
The Palace on Wheels offers modern comforts and private facilities, with each guest carriage styled to mirror the luxurious private salons once used by Indian royalty. The cabins provide a peaceful, personal retreat where guests can read, unwind, or enjoy the breathtaking views through large windows.
Rejuvenation and Relaxation
The Palace on Wheels features a Spa Car, Lounge Car, and Bar Car to help guests enjoy the best aspects of travel. The Spa Car offers Ayurvedic treatments, massages, and therapies. The Lounge Car and Bar Car are ideal for relaxing and socializing.
Arrival Kit
Every guest is greeted with a glass of wine and an arrival kit containing stationery, brochures, and other essentials.
Dedicated Attendant (Khidmatgar)
A personal attendant, called a Khidmatgar, is always on hand to meet all your travel needs, providing personalized and attentive service throughout the journey.
Entertainment and Connectivity
The train provides a range of indoor games such as crossword puzzles, carom board, chess, Chinese checkers, and playing cards. Guests can also stay connected with Wi-Fi and laptops available on board.
Medical Aid and News Updates
Medical assistance is always on hand, and a doctor can be arranged at any stop upon request. Guests can also enjoy daily newspapers and magazines delivered with their morning tea.
Royal Spa
The on-board spa offers therapeutic massages and rejuvenating treatments, helping guests unwind and relax after a day of sightseeing.
Security and Special Features
The train takes great care to provide security for both guests and their possessions. Each guest salon offers a comfortable sitting area with sofas, a TV, DVD players, and a variety of magazines.
Additional Amenities
- Voltage: The train provides power at both 110V and 230V.
- Wheelchair Assistance: Special services, including wheelchairs, crèches, and attendants, are available for guests with disabilities.
- Smoking: Smoking is not allowed in public places in India. For more information, guests can speak with the tour manager.
- Souvenir Shop: The train features a shop selling handicrafts, traditional artifacts, curios, and ethnic clothing.
Comprehensive Guide to Palace on Wheels: Ensuring a Regal Journey
Baggage Allowance
Since personal cabins have limited storage space, we suggest passengers follow the first or business class baggage rules of international airlines. Using soft-topped luggage will make it easier to store your bags.
Bar & Lounge
The bar on the Palace on Wheels offers a selection of house brand wines, spirits, and beer. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary snacks, making it an ideal spot to unwind and socialize.
Butlers
A team of English-speaking butlers is available 24/7 to attend to guests’ needs, providing prompt and personalized service.
Cabins
The train has 14 guest carriages, each adorned with Rajputana-inspired motifs. The cabins come with live television, air conditioning, internet connectivity, channel music, safes, and attached bathrooms.
Cell Phones
Passengers are kindly asked to keep their cell phones on silent mode while on board or during off-train excursions. Cell phones and laptops should be used only in private cabins.
Crew
The skilled, English-speaking crew is committed to not only meeting guests’ needs but also anticipating them.
Dining
The train features two elegantly decorated restaurants, Maharaja and Maharani, offering a range of cuisines including European, Indian, and Rajasthani dishes, each with its unique style and decor.
Dress Code
For off-train excursions, smart casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. When going on wildlife tours, guests should wear natural, muted colors to blend in with the surroundings. Warm clothing is suggested for winter trips.
Guides
Friendly, English-speaking guides go with guests on off-train trips, sharing lots of information about the places and historical sites. If needed, guides who speak other languages can be arranged for an extra cost.
Health
No specific vaccinations are needed for traveling to India, but you will need a Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate if you’re coming from a country where it’s common. It’s also wise to take precautions against malaria. Check with your doctor before traveling and make sure to bring enough medication.
Laundry
Laundry services are available at some destinations. For more information, please ask your carriage butler.
Minimum Passenger Requirement
A minimum number of passengers is needed for each journey. If this requirement isn’t met, alternative plans or refunds will be provided with 30 days’ notice.
Off-Train Excursion
It’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes for off-train excursions, as some paths may be uneven. A moderate level of physical fitness is needed to fully enjoy these tours.
Porter
Porters are available at each boarding and disembarking point to help with luggage.
Pre & Post Hotel Accommodation
We advise guests to book at least one night of hotel accommodation before and after the train journey. We can assist with these arrangements.
Smoking Policy
Smoking is not allowed in any public places in India. Guests who wish to smoke can ask the train captain for designated smoking areas.
Spa
The on-board spa provides a variety of rejuvenating treatments by professional therapists, guaranteeing a relaxing experience during your journey.
Special Dietary Requirements
Please mention any special dietary requirements at the time of booking to ensure a pleasant dining experience during your journey.
Tariff Excludes
Optional tours, insurance, taxes, phone calls, tips, laundry, alcoholic drinks (except house brands), camera fees, and transfers are not covered. International and domestic flights, accommodation before and after the tour, and tour extensions are also not included unless specified.
Tariff Includes
The tariff includes double or twin bed cabins with private bathrooms, all meals, soft drinks, butler service, guided off-train excursions with entrance and camera fees, transportation, guide services, complimentary tea, coffee, mineral water, and porter fees at stations.
Telephone Calls
Cabins are equipped with telephones, and external calls are charged separately.
Tipping
Gratuities for off-board guides, escorts, and staff are included in the journey cost. Guests can choose to offer additional tips for services if they wish.
Transportation
Air-conditioned coaches are used for off-train excursions. For more details about transportation, please refer to the itinerary.
Travel Insurance
Guests should carry personal insurance documents from their home country, covering illness, injury, accidents, death, loss of luggage, and trip cancellation. Passengers are also insured against unforeseen events like fire, earthquake, theft, and terrorism.
Wheelchair Access
Wheelchairs, crèches, and a special attendant are available for physically challenged passengers. Please mention any special needs when booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.
The Palace on Wheels provides a one-of-a-kind travel experience, mixing royal luxury with modern conveniences. You’ll enjoy gourmet meals, personalized service, and plenty of ways to relax and have fun. Every part of the trip is designed to let you experience the royal life once enjoyed by India’s nobility. Get ready to step back in time and enjoy a slow-paced journey, surrounded by the beauty and elegance of the Palace on Wheels.