Palace on Wheels: A Royal Journey Through the Golden Triangle Tour

The Palace on Wheels is one of India’s most renowned luxury trains, not just for its famous Golden Triangle Tour but also for its visits to some of the country’s most iconic destinations, including Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Bharatpur. As a passenger, you’ll experience a royal treatment with top-notch facilities, elegant cabins, and attentive service. The onboard dining is a highlight, serving gourmet dishes that appeal to the most refined tastes. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be immersed in a regal experience that promises a memorable journey.

The Palace on Wheels train offers an unforgettable journey through India’s renowned Golden Triangle tour, covering three iconic cities: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. This luxury tour is designed for travelers who wish to immerse themselves in India’s rich heritage while enjoying world-class comfort. As you travel, you’ll experience Delhi’s historic charm, explore the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra, and be captivated by Jaipur’s majestic forts and royal palaces. The train itself is a symbol of opulence, featuring elegant cabins, gourmet dining, and top-notch service. Every moment aboard feels like a royal experience, making this trip both enriching and luxurious.

History of Palace on Wheels Luxury Train

India’s first luxury train, the Palace on Wheels, offers a remarkable blend of comfort and adventure. It takes travelers on a scenic journey through Rajasthan, providing cozy, air-conditioned cabins for overnight stays and guided daytime tours in air-conditioned buses. The idea of exploring Rajasthan while enjoying luxury remains the same since its inception, making it a truly special way to experience this colorful state.

Originally, these grand carriages were used by royalty, including the rulers of princely states like Rajputana, Gujarat, and Hyderabad, as well as the Viceroy of British India. After India’s independence, these royal coaches were retired. However, in 1981-82, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, in collaboration with Indian Railways, brought them back to life, introducing the Palace on Wheels as a luxurious travel experience.

The train’s name reflects its royal origins, and the interiors have been upgraded over the years to maintain a regal feel while incorporating modern amenities. In the late 1980s, it transitioned to meter-gauge tracks with shared bathrooms, but in 1996, a broad-gauge version was introduced with private bathrooms for each cabin.

In 2017, the Palace on Wheels received a major makeover with more spacious cabins, offering guests the choice of Deluxe or Super Deluxe options for an even more comfortable journey through Rajasthan.

 Facilities of Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train that promises an extraordinary journey across Rajasthan. It combines the charm of royal travel with modern comfort, featuring cozy air-conditioned sleeping cabins for overnight trips and organized group sightseeing tours in comfortable, air-conditioned buses during the day.

Key Features:

39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins for personalized comfort.

Restaurant Cars with Bar Lounges, serving a variety of cuisines and drinks.

A Spa Car, offering relaxing treatments for rejuvenation.

Complimentary Wi-Fi to stay connected throughout your journey.

Dedicated Butler Service for each cabin, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Additional Information:

The train runs on a 110/230 AC Volt electric supply, with multiple plug points available in both cabins and bathrooms. Bringing your own adapters is recommended based on your electronic devices.

Limited laundry services are offered on select days.

With limited storage space, it’s best to bring soft-topped luggage, similar to what is used for international flights.

The train is centrally air-conditioned, maintaining a pleasant onboard temperature of 22°C.

Smoking is strictly prohibited onboard.

The Palace on Wheels continues to be one of the finest ways to experience Rajasthan, offering a blend of elegance, comfort, and the rich heritage of India.

Palace on Wheels: 7 Nights/8 Days Luxury Train Journey

Embark on a remarkable journey aboard the Palace on Wheels, a luxury train that lets you explore the magnificent land of Rajasthan just like the Maharajas once did. With every mile traveled, Rajasthan unveils its rich history and vibrant culture, providing an experience that blends royal charm with modern-day comfort.

The Palace on Wheels departs every Wednesday evening from New Delhi, returning to the same station the following Wednesday morning. Spanning 7 nights and 8 days, this journey covers over 3,000 kilometers (1,850 miles), offering an elegant adventure filled with splendour.

Onboard this iconic train, you’ll experience the grandeur of the past, with 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins designed to accommodate up to 82 passengers. Every aspect of this luxury journey reflects the charm and mystique of Rajasthan’s royal era.

Whether it’s the ornate decor, exquisite cuisine, or the personalized service, the Palace on Wheels offers an enchanting ride through India’s desert heartland, immersing you in its regal heritage and creating unforgettable memories.

Palace on Wheels Train Routes

Day 1: Departure from New Delhi

Welcome aboard one of India’s most luxurious trains! Your adventure begins at Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi, where you’re invited to arrive by 4:30 PM. You’ll receive a warm and traditional welcome, complete with garlands, tikka, and a vibrant turban, setting the tone for your royal journey. After completing the check-in process, take a moment to snap some photos with our elegantly dressed staff and embrace the charm of this unique experience.

Your personal attendant will then guide you to your plush cabin, giving you an overview of the luxurious amenities that await you. Once you’re settled in, head to the Bar Lounge for a complimentary welcome drink, where you can unwind and take in the lavish ambiance.

At 6:30 PM, the Palace on Wheels will begin its journey, gliding towards Rajasthan’s rich heritage. Enjoy a delightful dinner onboard, marking the perfect start to your extraordinary adventure!

Day 2: Jaipur, The Pink City

Wake up to a delicious breakfast served onboard as the Palace on Wheels makes its way to Jaipur, a key destination of the Golden Triangle Tour. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a grand welcome, with majestic elephants adding a touch of royal charm at the station.

Your day in Jaipur begins with visits to the St. Albert Museum and the captivating Pink City Palace, ending with the historic Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases India’s astronomical prowess. After a quick photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal, the journey continues to the magnificent Amber Fort.

Feel the excitement as you ride an elephant up the fort’s imposing ramparts. Once inside, enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the exclusive 1135 AD Boutique Restaurant, set within the fort’s ancient walls. As you explore Amber Fort’s intricate architecture, admire the stunning fusion of Rajput and Mughal styles that define its grandeur.

In the afternoon, dive into the vibrant local market, where you’ll find a variety of souvenirs that capture Jaipur’s essence. By 6:00 PM, you’ll return to the train, which departs for the next destination. Onboard, a delightful dinner awaits, carefully crafted to please your palate.

This journey aboard the Palace on Wheels offers an immersive blend of history, landscapes, and hospitality, bringing to life the elegance of luxury train travel in India.

Day 3: Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve and Chittorgarh Hill Fort

Rise and shine at 6:30 AM in a cozy forest lodge, as your day begins with an exciting jungle safari in 15-seater canters at the famous Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. This breathtaking reserve is one of India’s most renowned wildlife havens, home to a diverse array of animals including tigers, panthers, sloth bears, pythons, marsh crocodiles, and a colorful mix of deer and birds—making it a dream destination for wildlife lovers.

After your thrilling safari adventure, return to Sawai Madhopur Railway Station by 10:00 AM, where you’ll reboard the Palace on Wheels. A delightful lunch will be waiting for you onboard, giving you time to relax before the next chapter of your journey.

By 4:00 PM, the train arrives at Chittorgarh Railway Station. You’ll then embark on an excursion to the awe-inspiring Chittorgarh Hill Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 11th century. As India’s largest fort, its sprawling grounds tell tales of courage, grandeur, and legendary battles.

As evening falls, get ready to be captivated by a Sound & Light show inside the fort complex, a mesmerizing experience that brings its rich history to life. After the show, return to the train for dinner, as the Palace on Wheels departs shortly after midnight, heading toward the next exciting destination.

Day 4: Udaipur, the City of Lakes

The Palace on Wheels arrives in Udaipur at 8:00 AM. Start your day with a hearty breakfast onboard before stepping out to explore the magnificent City Palace complex. Built in the 17th century, it boasts eleven stunning Mahals, ornate balconies, and impressive towers. A stop at the Crystal Gallery offers a glimpse into the exquisite personal collection of the Maharaja of Udaipur.

Next, enjoy a peaceful boat ride around the iconic Lake Palace Hotel, which sits beautifully in the middle of Lake Pichola. Following the boat ride, savor a luxurious lunch at the regal Fatehprakash Palace Hotel.

After lunch, you’ll have some free time to indulge in shopping, exploring Udaipur’s vibrant markets for local handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles. Your final stop is the picturesque Saheliyon Ki Bari, the Royal Gardens, known for their enchanting fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions.

Return to the train by 3:00 PM to continue your journey to the next destination. As the day winds down, enjoy a delightful dinner onboard, marking the end of yet another memorable day on this royal journey.

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

Start your day with a delightful breakfast onboard before heading to the remarkable Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at 9:30 AM. Rising majestically over the city, this 15th-century fort radiates a golden glow under the desert sun, making it feel like a scene from Arabian Nights. As you wander through its sprawling courtyards and pass through its massive gates, you’ll be immersed in the rich stories of Jaisalmer’s past.

Your next stop is Patwon Ki Haveli, one of Jaisalmer’s largest and most intricately designed mansions. Its five stories are adorned with breathtaking carvings, making it a true architectural marvel. Just a short walk away, you’ll discover the ornately carved Jain Temples, home to some of India’s oldest manuscripts and a treasure trove of ancient spiritual heritage.

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at a luxurious 5-star hotel before returning to the train for a brief rest and refreshing afternoon tea. By 4:30 PM, venture out to the Sam Sand Dunes in the heart of the Thar Desert for a magical camel ride as the sun sets over the golden sands, creating a mesmerizing view.

The evening comes alive with a vibrant cultural performance, showcasing the rich folk traditions of Rajasthan, followed by a lavish dinner at a 5-star hotel. Return to the comfort of your luxury train by 10:00 PM, ready for the next adventure awaiting you on this incredible journey.

Day 6 (Monday): Jodhpur, Heart of Marwar

The Palace on Wheels arrives in Jodhpur at 8:00 AM. After enjoying a delicious breakfast onboard, set off to explore the grand Mehrangarh Fort, a 16th-century marvel that towers 125 meters above the city. As you pass through the fort’s massive gateways, designed to protect against invaders, you’ll enter vast courtyards leading to the opulent royal apartments. Inside, a museum showcases an impressive array of royal garments, medieval weaponry, and artifacts, offering a fascinating look into Jodhpur’s regal heritage.

Just a short drive away, visit the peaceful Jaswant Thada, a stunning white marble memorial built in honor of the royal family. Following this, explore the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, where you’ll find personal artifacts of the Maharaja of Jodhpur, adding a personal touch to the city’s royal history.

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the Hanwant Mahal Boutique Restaurant, a regal setting that completes your exploration of Jodhpur. Return to the train by 3:30 PM, where your royal journey continues. As evening falls, dinner will be served onboard, providing a perfect end to a day filled with history, culture, and luxury.

Day 7 (Tuesday Early Morning): Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Begin your day at 6:30 AM with an excursion to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich avian diversity. Hop onto a cycle rickshaw for a peaceful ride through the sanctuary, where you’ll have the chance to spot over 375 species of birds, including both local residents and migratory species from Sri Lanka, Europe, Siberia, China, and Tibet.

After this delightful morning adventure surrounded by nature’s symphony, return to your luxury train for a delicious breakfast. By 8:45 AM, the Palace on Wheels departs, taking you onward to the next chapter of your royal journey.

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

The main destination of the Golden Triangle Tour is Agra. Wake up to a delicious breakfast served onboard as the Palace on Wheels makes its way to Jaipur, a key destination of the Golden Triangle Tour. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a grand welcome, with majestic elephants adding a touch of royal charm at the station.

Arrive on the outskirts of Agra by 10:30 AM, where your journey through this historic city begins. Start with a visit to the iconic Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the grand seat of the Mughal Empire. As you explore its massive walls, intricate palaces, and beautiful gardens, you’ll be transported back to the era of Mughal grandeur.

After exploring the fort, indulge in a luxurious lunch at the prestigious ITC Mughal Hotel, setting the tone for the next highlight of your visit—the Taj Mahal. This stunning white marble masterpiece, recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, stands as an eternal symbol of love and beauty. Its breathtaking architecture and serene ambiance create an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy some free time for shopping and exploring local crafts, where you can discover Agra’s famous marble inlay work, handicrafts, and more. Return to your luxury train for a delightful dinner, as it departs for your next destination, continuing this royal journey across India.

Day 8 (Wednesday): Return to New Delhi

The Palace on Wheels arrives at Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station by 5:30 AM. Begin your day with an early breakfast onboard as you reflect on the unforgettable memories of your journey. By 7:15 AM, it’s time to check out, marking the end of your luxurious adventure across India.

Please note that the onboard management may adjust tour timings based on local logistics to ensure a smooth experience. Additionally, off-board meal locations may change depending on availability. Thank you for choosing the Palace on Wheels for this royal journey, and we hope to see you onboard again for more memorable travels!