Palace on Wheels Package

The Palace on Wheels is all about enjoying India’s royal charm as you explore its most iconic destinations, especially Rajasthan’s regal cities. This train aims to give you a glimpse into the grandeur of Indian royalty, with its plush interiors, attentive staff, and delicious dining experiences. It’s not just a trip; it’s a memorable dive into luxury.

The Palace on Wheels Package spans a 7-night, 8-day itinerary, covering cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Sawai Madhopur, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra. You’ll have guided tours at major attractions, including the Amber Fort, City Palace, and the Taj Mahal. Along the way, there are cultural performances and local culinary delights, providing a true taste of each city’s essence.

The package includes everything you need for a comfortable journey—meals, drinks (except alcohol), cabin accommodations, sightseeing charges, and entry fees. The cabins mix heritage design with modern comforts, ensuring a pleasant stay. Plus, you’ll have access to spa treatments, lounges, and a bar for added relaxation.

This package is ideal for travelers looking for a seamless way to explore India’s heritage while indulging in luxurious comfort.

HISTORY of Palace on Wheels

India’s first luxury train, the Palace on Wheels, has always focused on providing a comfortable and royal experience. The train offers overnight journeys in air-conditioned cabins, combined with guided sightseeing tours during the day in air-conditioned buses.

Historically, these splendid coaches were once reserved for the royal families of Rajputana, Gujarat, the Nizam of Hyderabad, and even the Viceroy of British India. After independence, these royal carriages were left idle for about 25 years. It wasn’t until 1981-82 that the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, in partnership with Indian Railways, brought them back to life as a heritage train, offering visitors a special way to explore Rajasthan.

The name Palace on Wheels reflects the regal legacy of these coaches. While the train’s infrastructure has been upgraded over the years, its royal ambiance has been carefully preserved. In the late 1980s, the original saloons were replaced with meter-gauge coaches featuring air-conditioned cabins and shared bathrooms. By 1996, with the introduction of broad-gauge tracks in India, a newer version of the train came with private bathrooms in each cabin.

In September 2017, more upgrades were made to enhance the guest experience. The revamped train now offers larger carriages and a choice between Deluxe and Super Deluxe cabins, adding an extra touch of luxury to this iconic journey.

Facilities of Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels perfectly combines luxury, comfort, and a taste of India’s culture. Staying true to its roots, it offers overnight journeys in air-conditioned cabins and guided daytime tours in air-conditioned buses. This setup provides travelers with both comfort and the chance to immerse themselves in India’s rich heritage.

Key Highlights of the Palace on Wheels

Deluxe and Super Deluxe Cabins: The train features 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins, each designed to evoke royal elegance. Expect cozy bedding, refined décor, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
Restaurant Cars with Bar Lounges: Passengers can savor a variety of gourmet Indian and international dishes, complemented by a wide selection of wines, spirits, and cocktails in the onboard restaurants and bar lounges.
Dedicated Spa Car: For those seeking relaxation, the train offers a dedicated spa car with a range of massage therapies and wellness treatments, enhancing the overall luxury experience.
Complimentary Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout the journey with free Wi-Fi, making it easy to share your experiences or look up information as you travel.
Personalized Butler Service: Each cabin comes with an exclusive butler, providing personalized service throughout the trip—from morning tea to evening cocktails—ensuring every need is met.

Additional Details

Electric Supply: The train operates on 110/230 AC volts, with multiple plug points available in both cabins and bathrooms. It’s recommended to bring your own adapter, depending on your devices.
Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are offered on select days, making it convenient for guests to keep their attire fresh during the journey.
Luggage Recommendations: Due to limited cabin storage, travelers are encouraged to pack soft-top luggage that aligns with standard international airline carry-on sizes.
Consistent Onboard Temperature: The train maintains a comfortable central temperature of 22°C, ensuring a pleasant environment throughout the trip.
No Smoking Policy: Smoking is strictly prohibited onboard, ensuring a safe and healthy atmosphere for all passengers.

These features make the Palace on Wheels a remarkable way to experience India’s royal heritage, offering the elegance of a bygone era along with modern-day conveniences.

Palace on Wheels Itinerary: 7-Night, 8-Day Journey

Start your luxurious adventure with the Palace on Wheels Package, offering a 7-night, 8-day trip through some of India’s most iconic destinations. This journey combines royal comfort with cultural exploration, featuring opulent overnight travel and guided tours to India’s rich heritage sites. Here’s a closer look at what to expect:

Day 1 (Wednesday): Departure from New Delhi

Your Palace on Wheels Package starts at Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi, where you’ll receive a traditional welcome. The staff will greet you with garlands, tikka, and turbans, setting the tone for a royal experience.
After check-in formalities, enjoy a photoshoot with the crew in traditional attire. A personal attendant will escort you to your cabin, providing a brief orientation about the journey.
Enjoy a welcome drink in the Bar Lounge as the train prepares to depart.
The train leaves at 6:30 PM, and dinner is served onboard, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey.

Day 2 (Thursday): Jaipur, The Pink City

Start your day with breakfast onboard before arriving at Jaipur Railway Station, where you’ll receive a royal elephant welcome.
Begin your exploration with the St. Albert Museum, followed by visits to the City Palace and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stop briefly at the iconic Hawa Mahal for a photo opportunity before heading to the Amber Fort, where you’ll enjoy an elephant ride up its steep ramparts.
Relish a royal lunch at the 1135 AD Boutique Restaurant within the fort. After touring its majestic halls, stroll through the bustling local market.
Return to the train for a delightful dinner onboard.

Day 3 (Friday): Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve & Chittorgarh

Begin your day early with a thrilling safari at Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, where you might spot tigers, sloth bears, and other wildlife.
After your wildlife adventure, head back to the train for lunch.
By afternoon, arrive at the magnificent Chittorgarh Fort, India’s largest hill fort. Explore its historic ruins, followed by a captivating sound and light show in the evening.
Return to the train for dinner, as it departs past midnight, heading to the next destination.

Day 4 (Saturday): Udaipur, The City of Lakes

The Palace on Wheels Package brings you to Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes. Begin with a visit to the City Palace complex, followed by the stunning Crystal Gallery.
Take a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, with views of the iconic Lake Palace Hotel.
Enjoy a royal lunch at the Fatehprakash Palace Hotel before heading to the charming Saheliyon Ki Bari, known for its beautiful gardens.
Return to the train for a relaxed dinner onboard.

Day 5 (Sunday): Jaisalmer, The Golden City

Explore the mesmerizing Jaisalmer Fort, a living fortress that seems straight out of a fairytale.
Visit the intricately designed Patwon Ki Haveli and the historic Jain Temples.
Enjoy lunch at a luxurious 5-star hotel before experiencing the golden sands of the Sam Sand Dunes with a camel ride.
Watch a lively cultural program under the stars, followed by a dinner near the dunes before heading back to the train.

Day 6 (Monday): Jodhpur, The Heart of Marwar

Arrive in Jodhpur to explore the towering Mehrangarh Fort, the elegant Jaswant Thada, and the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Savor a royal lunch at Hanwant Mahal Boutique Restaurant, offering breathtaking views of the Blue City below.
Return to the train for departure to the next destination, with dinner served onboard.

Day 7 (Tuesday): Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary & Agra

Begin your day with an early morning visit to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, where you’ll enjoy a rickshaw ride to observe the diverse birdlife.
Continue your journey to Agra, where you’ll explore the historic Agra Fort before visiting the breathtaking Taj Mahal.
Enjoy a lavish lunch at the ITC Mughal Hotel, followed by some shopping at local markets.
Return to the train for dinner onboard as it heads to the final destination.

Day 8 (Wednesday): Return to New Delhi

Your Palace on Wheels Package concludes as the train returns to Safdarjung Railway Station by 5:30 AM.
Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before checking out by 7:15 AM, marking the end of your journey through India’s royal heritage.

Additional Information

Onboard management of the Palace on Wheels Package may adjust timings based on local logistics to ensure a smooth experience.
Meal locations might vary depending on availability.

This luxury train tour perfectly blends heritage, comfort, and adventure, offering a delightful way to experience India’s timeless splendour.