Palace on Wheels: Luxury Private Tours India
The Palace on Wheels is the epitome of luxury on rails, offering an unforgettable journey through India’s royal past. This luxury train captures the opulence of India’s former princely states, with its lavish interiors, regal suites, and impeccable service. Each carriage is designed to recreate the elegance of royal palaces, complete with modern amenities to ensure comfort.
What sets the Palace on Wheels apart is the unique experience of luxury private tours India. Guests enjoy exclusive access to some of India’s most iconic destinations, from Jaipur to Udaipur, without the stress of planning. The train’s personalized service, gourmet dining, and private lounges create an atmosphere of ultimate luxury.
Whether you’re exploring the forts of Rajasthan or the jungles of Ranthambore, the Palace on Wheels transforms travel into a private, luxury experience like no other, making it the premier choice for discerning travelers.
History of Palace on Wheels: luxury private tours in India
The Palace on Wheels, India’s first luxury train, offers an unforgettable experience blending comfort, history, and adventure. This iconic train lets guests travel overnight in cozy AC cabins, waking up each day to explore Rajasthan’s most fascinating sights in the comfort of air-conditioned buses.
Inspired by the royal journeys of former Maharajas and the British Viceroy, the train was launched in 1982 to recreate that grandeur. Initially, it featured the original saloons of the royals, but over the years, it evolved to offer modern amenities while retaining its regal charm. By 1996, the Palace on Wheels introduced spacious cabins with private bathrooms, enhancing the luxury experience.
In 2017, the train took it a step further with new, more spacious carriages, offering guests the choice of Deluxe or Super Deluxe cabins. This makes it a top choice for those seeking luxury private tours India, delivering both elegance and comfort.
Facilities of Palace on Wheels: luxury private tours India
The Palace on Wheels offers an exceptional luxury travel experience, combining modern amenities with the charm of India’s royal heritage. Each fully air-conditioned cabin is designed to cater to global luxury travelers, featuring attached bathrooms, Wi-Fi, a mini pantry, music channels, and a safe. The rich interiors of the cabins are inspired by the colors of Rajasthan’s palaces, offering a regal ambiance in hues of ruby, turquoise, or pearl. With a dedicated personal attendant, known as a khidmatgar, you can enjoy personalized service throughout your journey.
The train has two restaurant cars, Maharaja and Maharani, serving freshly prepared international cuisine, along with two bar lounges for relaxation. For added indulgence, there’s an Ayurvedic spa onboard, and complimentary Wi-Fi is available through shared dongles. These features make the Palace on Wheels an ideal option for those looking for luxury private tours India.
The train’s 39 Deluxe and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins provide plenty of space, comfort, and privacy. Additionally, laundry services are available on limited days, and the train is centrally air-conditioned to maintain a pleasant onboard temperature of 22°C. For added convenience, each cabin has multiple plug points (110/230 AC volts) and limited storage, so guests are advised to bring soft-topped luggage suitable for air travel.
For those seeking a royal journey and luxury private tours India, the Palace on Wheels offers a perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and cultural exploration.
The Palace on Wheels Train Route: 7 Nights / 8 Days
Embark on a royal journey through the enchanting land of Rajasthan with the Palace on Wheels. Over 7 nights and 8 days, you’ll experience the grandeur and heritage that once belonged to the Maharajas. This luxury private tour of India offers an unforgettable adventure across Rajasthan’s most iconic destinations.
Day 1 (Wednesday): New Delhi Departure
Arrive at Safdarjung Railway Station by 4:30 PM for a traditional welcome with garlands, tikka, and a turban. After check-in, enjoy a photo session with the Palace on Wheels staff in their beautiful traditional attire. You’ll then be escorted to your saloon cabins by a personal attendant, who will brief you on the cabin’s amenities. Relax in the Bar Lounge with a complimentary welcome drink before the train departs at 6:30 PM. Dinner is served onboard as you begin your incredible journey.
Day 2 (Thursday): Jaipur, The Pink City
Start your day with breakfast onboard the Palace on Wheels, then experience a royal elephant welcome at Jaipur Railway Station. From here, explore the rich heritage of the Pink City, beginning with a visit to the St. Albert Museum, the grand City Palace, and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, a fascinating astronomical observatory.
Next, enjoy a photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), followed by an excursion to the stunning Amber Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll ascend the fort’s steep ramparts on an elephant, taking in breathtaking views. Lunch is served at the 1135 AD Boutique Restaurant within the fort, offering a taste of regal dining.
In the afternoon, explore the beautifully preserved courtyards of Amber Fort, showcasing a unique blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. By 5:00 PM, you’ll visit the vibrant local market for some shopping before returning to the train at 6:00 PM. Dinner is served onboard as the Palace on Wheels departs for its next destination.
Day 3 (Friday): Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve
Start your day early with a 6:30 AM departure for a jungle safari in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries. Board a 15-seater canter and explore the rich biodiversity of this forest, home to majestic tigers, panthers, sloth bears, and more. You’ll also spot marsh crocodiles, deer, and a variety of bird species, making it a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
After the safari, return to Sawai Madhopur Railway Station by 10:00 AM to reboard the Palace on Wheels. Lunch will be served onboard as the train continues its journey, offering a seamless blend of adventure and comfort. This is one of the highlights of luxury private tours India, combining wildlife and elegance.
Day 3 (Friday Afternoon): Chittorgarh Hill Fort
Arriving at 4:00 PM, the Palace on Wheels reaches Chittorgarh Railway Station. From here, you’ll explore the majestic Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread across a vast plateau, this historic fort dates back to the 11th century and is renowned as the largest fort in India.
In the evening, enjoy a captivating Sound & Light show within the fort complex, bringing its rich history to life. After the program, return to the train for dinner. The Palace on Wheels will depart just after midnight, continuing your luxurious journey through India’s royal past.
Day 4 (Saturday): Udaipur, the City of Lakes
The Palace on Wheels arrives in Udaipur by 8:00 AM. After a delicious breakfast onboard, start your day with a visit to the grand City Palace, built in the 17th century. This stunning complex features eleven Mahals, with beautiful balconies, towers, and cupolas. A stop at the Crystal Gallery, showcasing the personal collection of the Maharaja of Udaipur, adds a touch of elegance to the experience.
Later, enjoy a scenic boat ride around the famous Lake Palace Hotel, perched on a small island in the middle of Lake Pichola. Lunch will be served at the luxurious Fatehprakash Palace Hotel. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local markets and visit the Royal Gardens at Saheliyon Ki Bari.
By 3:00 PM, return to the train and continue your journey. This is a perfect day of relaxation and exploration, part of the luxury private tours India experience. Dinner will be served onboard as the train departs for the next destination.
Day 5 (Sunday): Jaisalmer, Oasis in the Desert
Begin your day with breakfast onboard the Palace on Wheels before heading out at 9:30 AM to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jaisalmer Fort. This 15th-century fort rises 100 meters above Jaisalmer town and glows golden under the afternoon sun. Walking through its massive gates into the courtyard feels like stepping into an Arabian Nights tale.
Next, visit the intricately carved Patwon ki Haveli, one of the largest and most stunning mansions in Jaisalmer. Close by, you’ll find a group of 15th-century Jain Temples, renowned for their beautiful carvings and home to ancient manuscripts.
After lunch at a 5-star hotel, return to the train for a brief rest. At 4:30 PM, set off for the Sam sand dunes in the Thar Desert, where you can enjoy a camel ride at sunset. The evening concludes with a cultural program and dinner at a luxurious hotel. Return to the train by 10:00 PM as it departs for the next destination. This day is a highlight of luxury private tours India, blending heritage, adventure, and comfort.
Day 6 (Monday): Jodhpur, Heart of Marwar
The Palace on Wheels arrives in Jodhpur at 8:00 AM. After breakfast onboard, your day of exploration begins with a visit to the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. Built in the 16th century, this grand fort rises 125 meters above the town, offering stunning views of Jodhpur. As you pass through the angled gateways, designed to prevent enemy attacks, you’ll enter a complex of palatial apartments and wide courtyards. Inside, the museum houses a fascinating collection of royal attire and medieval weaponry.
Close to the fort is the Jaswant Thada, a serene cluster of royal cenotaphs made from white marble, built in the late 19th century. You’ll also visit the museum at Umaid Bhawan Palace, showcasing the personal artifacts of the Maharaja of Jodhpur.
Enjoy lunch at the elegant Hanwant Mahal Boutique Restaurant before returning to the train. The Palace on Wheels departs at 3:30 PM, continuing your royal journey. Dinner is served onboard, capping off a day filled with history and luxury.
Day 7 (Tuesday Early Morning): Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Begin your day early at 6:30 AM with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Enjoy a peaceful cycle rickshaw ride through the sanctuary, where you can spot some of the 375 species of local and migratory birds from regions like Sri Lanka, Europe, and Siberia. After this relaxing experience, return to the train for breakfast and depart by 8:45 AM.
Day 7 (Tuesday Noon): Agra, City of the Taj Mahal
Arriving at Agra’s outskirts by 10:30 AM, your tour starts with a visit to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former seat of the powerful Mughal Empire. After lunch at the luxurious ITC Mughal Hotel, explore the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This stunning white marble monument is the epitome of love and architectural beauty.
After some free time for shopping, return to the train for dinner as your luxurious journey continues. This day beautifully showcases the blend of culture, history, and comfort found in luxury private tours India.
Day 8 (Wednesday): Return to New Delhi
The Palace on Wheels returns to Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station early in the morning, arriving at 5:30 AM. After enjoying a final breakfast onboard, check-out by 7:15 AM, marking the end of your luxurious journey through India.
TOUR ENDS
Note:
- The Palace on Wheels onboard management may adjust tour timings based on local logistics.
- Hotels or restaurants listed for off-board meals are subject to change.
This seamless end to your tour reflects the convenience and comfort that luxury private tours India are known for.
