India Luxury Tour: Experience India's Finest Destinations

Enjoy A Luxury Tour India with the Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels is the epitome of an India Luxury Tour, offering a magnificent journey through India’s rich heritage. Designed for travelers seeking opulence, this luxury train takes you through Rajasthan’s iconic cities, blending royal experiences with world-class comfort.

Aboard the Palace on Wheels, guests are treated like royalty. The train’s interiors reflect the grandeur of India’s princely states, featuring plush furnishings, traditional artwork, and modern amenities. With a choice of luxurious suites, it combines classic elegance with contemporary comfort for an unforgettable stay.

The itinerary covers remarkable destinations: starting from Delhi, it moves to the Pink City Jaipur, the wildlife haven Sawai Madhopur, the historic Chittorgarh, the lakeside splendor of Udaipur, the golden sands of Jaisalmer, the vibrant streets of Jodhpur, the bird sanctuary at Bharatpur, and finally the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra. Each stop offers carefully curated excursions that provide intimate insights into India’s culture, architecture, and traditions.

Onboard, travelers can indulge in gourmet dining, relax at the spa, or unwind in the bar lounge, all crafted to enhance the India Luxury Tour experience. The Palace on Wheels seamlessly blends luxury and exploration, making it a top choice for discerning travelers wanting to experience India’s royal legacy while enjoying a comfortable journey across these iconic destinations.

History of Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels, India’s first luxury train, was born from the idea of offering an unforgettable travel experience. The concept is simple yet luxurious: guests travel overnight in comfortable air-conditioned chambers and enjoy pre-arranged group sightseeing tours during the day, exploring Rajasthan’s vibrant culture.

Historically, the train’s origins date back to the royal journeys of Rajputana’s rulers, the Nizam of Hyderabad, and British viceroys. After India’s independence, these opulent coaches sat idle for nearly 25 years. In 1981-82, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, along with Indian Railways, revived these carriages, creating a heritage train that promised tourists a royal journey through Rajasthan.

The train’s name, Palace on Wheels, reflects the regal past of its original coaches. While its interiors have been upgraded for modern comfort, they still preserve the aesthetics of the royal era. The initial carriages, which featured shared bathrooms, were replaced in the late 1980s by meter gauge carriages with air-conditioned cabins. In 1996, with rail track conversion, a broad-gauge version was launched, offering cabins with private bathrooms.

In 2017, more spacious carriages were introduced, providing travelers the option to choose between Deluxe and Super Deluxe cabins. The Palace on Wheels remains a blend of royal heritage and modern luxury.

Facilities of Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels stays true to its original concept, providing travelers a royal experience with overnight travel in comfortable, air-conditioned cabins and daily sightseeing tours by AC buses. It combines the charm of India’s regal past with modern luxury.

Key Highlights

Cabin Options: The train has 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins, each with private bathrooms, elegant furnishings, and traditional decor inspired by Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
Dining & Bars: There are two restaurant cars that offer a range of Indian and international cuisines. Guests can unwind in the bar lounges, which offer a fine selection of drinks and a cozy space to socialize.
Spa Car: The spa car is a major highlight, offering relaxing massages and wellness treatments to rejuvenate guests during the journey.
Complimentary Wi-Fi: For connectivity, the train offers complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to stay connected while enjoying their luxury tour.
Exclusive Butler: Each cabin comes with a dedicated butler, ensuring that every need is catered to promptly and personally.

More Details

Electric Supply: The train runs on 110/230 AC volts, with multiple plug points in cabins and bathrooms. Travelers may need their own adaptors depending on their devices.
Laundry: Limited laundry services are available on select days, adding convenience to longer journeys.
Luggage Space: Cabins offer limited storage, so guests are advised to carry soft, airline-sized luggage.
Air Conditioning: The train is centrally air-conditioned, maintaining a pleasant temperature of 22°C throughout the journey.
Non-Smoking: For safety and comfort, smoking is prohibited on board.

The Palace on Wheels ensures a blend of luxury, comfort, and tradition, making it an exceptional choice for experiencing India’s royal splendour.

Palace on Wheels Route for India Luxury Tour

Day 1: Departure from New Delhi

Your India Luxury Tour begins at Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi. You’ll be welcomed with garlands, tikka, and turban-adorned staff, evoking a royal ambiance from the very start. After check-in, your personal attendant will guide you to your luxurious cabin and brief you about its modern amenities, including a private bathroom, plush bedding, and classic decor. Unwind with a welcome drink in the bar lounge, taking in the elegant interiors. As the train departs at 6:30 PM, a gourmet dinner is served, offering a variety of Indian and international delicacies, setting the tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Jaipur – The Pink City

Begin the day with breakfast onboard before arriving in Jaipur. Expect a royal welcome, complete with elephants and traditional music. Your guided tour covers the St. Albert Museum, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing astronomical marvels. A visit to Amber Fort follows, where an elephant ride takes you to its hilltop gates. Explore the fort’s intricate architecture and enjoy lunch at the exclusive 1135 AD Restaurant, set within the fort. In the afternoon, visit the bustling local markets for souvenirs before returning to the train. Dinner onboard concludes an enriching day of this India Luxury Tour.

Day 3: Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve & Chittorgarh

Awaken early for an exciting safari at Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Board 15-seater canters for a thrilling exploration of diverse wildlife, including tigers, sloth bears, and various species of deer. Return to the train for a hearty lunch and prepare for Chittorgarh, home to India’s largest hill fort. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its heroic tales and stunning architecture. As evening falls, witness a captivating Sound & Light show that narrates the fort’s history. Return to the train for a leisurely dinner as you continue your India Luxury Tour, departing for Udaipur post-midnight.

Day 4: Udaipur – The City of Lakes

Arrive in Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” by morning. After breakfast, explore the grand City Palace, famous for its elaborate architecture, historic artifacts, and panoramic views of Lake Pichola. Visit the Crystal Gallery, housing the personal collection of the Maharaja of Udaipur. A serene boat ride around the picturesque Lake Palace Hotel offers a magical experience. Relish a royal lunch at Fatehprakash Palace, a splendid heritage hotel, before free time for shopping local handicrafts and souvenirs. Visit the tranquil Saheliyon Ki Bari gardens, then board the Palace on Wheels for an elegant dinner and onward journey.

Day 5: Jaisalmer – Oasis in the Desert

Jaisalmer greets you with its golden charm. Start your day exploring Jaisalmer Fort, a living 15th-century marvel, where residents still reside within its walls. Visit Patwon Ki Haveli, known for its intricate carvings and Rajput architecture. A short visit to the ancient Jain Temples provides insight into India’s spiritual heritage. Lunch is served at a luxury hotel, followed by a camel ride at the Sam Sand Dunes, offering spectacular sunset views. The evening continues with cultural performances featuring Rajasthani music and dance. Conclude the day with a lavish dinner at a 5-star hotel before returning to the train.

Day 6: Jodhpur – Heart of Marwar

Arrive in Jodhpur, the “Blue City,” known for its royal heritage. Start with a tour of the massive Mehrangarh Fort, perched atop a hill. Explore its expansive courtyards, palatial apartments, and a museum displaying medieval weaponry and royal artifacts. Visit Jaswant Thada, a serene white marble memorial, followed by Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, showcasing regal memorabilia. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Hanwant Mahal, offering panoramic city views. Return to the Palace on Wheels by afternoon, as it departs for Bharatpur, continuing your luxurious journey across Rajasthan. Dinner is served onboard, ensuring an elegant end to the day.

Day 7: Bharatpur & Agra

Begin the day with an early visit to Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where over 375 bird species await. Experience a serene cycle rickshaw ride through lush landscapes. Return to the train for breakfast and continue towards Agra. Upon arrival, explore Agra Fort, an architectural masterpiece of the Mughal era, followed by a lavish lunch at ITC Mughal Hotel. Later, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love, where you can marvel at its stunning marble beauty. After shopping for local crafts, return to the Palace on Wheels for a final onboard dinner.

Day 8: Return to New Delhi

Your India Luxury Tour aboard the Palace on Wheels concludes as the train arrives back in New Delhi early in the morning. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while reflecting on the luxurious journey that brought Rajasthan’s royal splendor to life. After disembarking at Safdarjung Railway Station by 7:15 AM, bid farewell to an unforgettable experience that combined heritage, culture, and opulence. The Palace on Wheels ensures that your memories of India’s royal grandeur and luxury remain cherished long after the journey ends.