Palace on Wheels: Luxury Train in India

Start on an unforgettable journey aboard the Palace on Wheels, a luxury train in India that transports you to a world of grandeur and royal heritage. Rated among the top four luxury trains globally, this exquisite experience blends the opulence of regal palaces with the captivating landscapes of Rajasthan, offering a journey like no other.

Each fully air-conditioned cabin is a sanctuary of comfort, complete with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, a mini pantry, a music channel, and a personal safe. Every saloon also comes with a dedicated khidmatgar (attendant) to cater to your every need. The decor reflects the royal past, with each coach named after Rajasthan’s iconic palaces and forts, featuring interiors in rich hues of ruby, turquoise, or pearl.

Indulge in fine dining at the two onboard restaurants, Maharaja and Maharani, where freshly prepared international cuisines await. For relaxation, enjoy the train’s Ayurvedic spa or unwind in one of the lounge bars. Complimentary Wi-Fi ensures you stay connected as you traverse the breathtaking landscapes aboard this luxury train in India.

The Palace on Wheels is more than a journey; it’s a step into the opulent world of India’s royal past.

History of Palace on Wheels: Luxury Train in India

India’s first luxury train, Palace on Wheels, was designed to offer an exceptional travel experience, combining overnight journeys in comfortable AC sleeping chambers with organized daytime sightseeing tours in air-conditioned buses. This unique concept has remained unchanged, allowing travelers to explore Rajasthan in the ultimate comfort aboard a luxury train in India.

Originally, these lavish coaches were used by the rulers of princely states such as Rajputana, Gujarat, the Nizam of Hyderabad, and even the Viceroy of British India. After independence, these royal coaches were retired until 1981-82, when the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways revived them, launching Palace on Wheels to provide tourists a one-of-a-kind experience on a luxury train in India.

The train’s name was inspired by the royal heritage of its original coaches. Over time, the interiors have been upgraded to ensure modern comfort while maintaining their regal aesthetics. In the late 1980s, the train shifted to meter-gauge with shared bathrooms, and in 1996, a broad-gauge version was introduced, offering private attached bathrooms in each cabin.

In 2017, the Palace on Wheels received a significant upgrade with new, more spacious carriages, allowing guests to choose between Deluxe and Super Deluxe Cabins, ensuring even greater comfort for their journey.

Facilities of Palace on Wheels: Luxury Train in India

The Palace on Wheels, a renowned luxury train in India, offers an unforgettable journey with overnight travel in comfortable AC sleeping chambers and pre-arranged group sightseeing tours by air-conditioned buses during the day.

Key Highlights:

• 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins
• Restaurant Cars with Bar Lounges
• 1 Spa Car for relaxation
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Exclusive Butler service for each cabin

More Details:

• The train operates on a 110/230 AC Volt electric supply with multiple plug points in both cabins and bathrooms. Guests may wish to bring their own adaptors depending on their electronic devices.
• Limited laundry services are available on select days.
• Due to limited storage space, guests are advised to bring soft-topped luggage similar to that used in international air travel.
• The train is centrally air-conditioned, maintaining a comfortable onboard temperature of 22°C.
• Please note, smoking is not allowed onboard.

The Palace on Wheels continues to be one of the finest ways to explore Rajasthan, showcasing the essence of a luxury train in India, combining elegance with comfort.

The Palace on Wheels: A Luxury Train in India

07 Nights / 08 Days

begin on an unforgettable journey aboard the Palace on Wheels, a renowned luxury train in India, where you can explore the majestic land of Rajasthan and travel like the Maharajas of old. Rajasthan reveals its rich history and mystical charms to guests, offering an opulent experience that perfectly blends royalty with comfort.

The Palace on Wheels begins its journey every Wednesday evening from New Delhi and returns to the same station the following Wednesday morning. Over 7 nights and 8 days, this luxury train in India covers more than 3,000 kilometers (1,850 miles), providing an experience filled with elegance and grandeur.

Aboard this regal train, you’ll relive the enchanting era of kings and queens, where every detail of the journey evokes charm and mysticism. The train boasts 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins, accommodating up to 82 passengers in total.

The Palace on Wheels promises a luxurious and enchanting journey that immerses you in the royal heritage of India’s desert heartland.

Luxury Train Experience in India: A Journey to Remember

Day 1: Departure from New Delhi

Welcome aboard your unforgettable journey on one of the finest luxury trains in India. Arrive by 4:30 PM at Safdarjung Railway Station, where you’ll be greeted with a traditional welcome—think garlands, tikka, and a beautifully adorned turban. After completing check-in formalities, take a moment to capture the essence of this royal experience with our elegantly dressed staff.

Your personal attendant will escort you to your sumptuous cabin, providing a briefing on the luxurious amenities awaiting you. Once settled, enjoy a complimentary welcome drink in the Bar Lounge as you relax and soak in the ambiance. The train will depart at 6:30 PM, and dinner will be served onboard, setting the perfect tone for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Jaipur, The Pink City

Wake up to a delightful breakfast served onboard, followed by a royal welcome in Jaipur, complete with majestic elephants awaiting your arrival at the station. Your exploration begins with visits to the exquisite St. Albert Museum and the enchanting Pink City Palace, culminating in the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After a brief photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal, start on an excursion to the splendid Amber Fort. Experience the thrill of an elephant ride up the fort’s majestic ramparts, and then indulge in a delicious lunch at the exclusive 1135 AD Boutique Restaurant, nestled within the fort’s walls.

As you explore the fort’s remarkable architecture, witness the stunning blend of Rajput and Mughal styles. In the afternoon, lose yourself in the vibrant local market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs. By 6:00 PM, you’ll return to the luxury train in India, ready to depart for your next enchanting destination. Dinner awaits you onboard, crafted to delight your palate.

Experience the elegance and charm of luxury train travel in India—a journey filled with rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled hospitality.

Day 3: Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve and Chittorgarh Hill Fort

Early Morning: Safari Adventure

Awaken at 6:30 AM in a charming forest lodge, ready for an exhilarating jungle safari in 15-seater canters within the renowned Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. This majestic reserve, one of the most popular in India, boasts a rich tapestry of wildlife including tigers, panthers, sloth bears, pythons, marsh crocodiles, and a variety of deer and birds. It’s a true paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

After your adventure, return to Sawai Madhopur Railway Station and board the luxury train in India by 10:00 AM, where a delicious lunch awaits you onboard.

Afternoon: Chittorgarh Hill Fort

By 4:00 PM, the Palace on Wheels train arrives at Chittorgarh Railway Station. Prepare for an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chittorgarh Hill Fort, a magnificent structure dating back to the 11th century. As the largest fort in India, it holds stories of valor and grandeur across its expansive grounds.

In the evening, enjoy a mesmerizing Sound & Light program set within the fort complex, illuminating its rich history. Afterward, return to the train for dinner, with the train set to depart post-midnight.

Day 4: Udaipur, the City of Lakes

The train arrives in Udaipur by 8:00 AM. After breakfast onboard, set out to explore the stunning 17th-century City Palace complex, featuring eleven majestic Mahals, grand balconies, and intricate towers. A visit to the Crystal Gallery showcases the exquisite personal collection of His Highness of Udaipur.

Next, delight in a serene boat ride around the world-famous Lake Palace Hotel, perched on an island in the middle of Lake Pichola. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at the regal Fatehprakash Palace Hotel, followed by free time for shopping. Conclude your day with a visit to the enchanting Royal Gardens at Saheliyon Ki Bari before returning to the train by 3 PM to depart for your next adventure. Dinner will be served onboard, a perfect end to another remarkable day.

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

Begin your day with a delightful onboard breakfast before embarking on a journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jaisalmer Fort at 9:30 AM. This magnificent fort, reminiscent of an Arabian Nights tale, stands proudly over Jaisalmer, casting a golden hue under the afternoon sun. As you explore this living 15th-century marvel, you’ll be transported back in time, walking through its vast courtyards and massive gates that tell stories of the past.

Next, visit the stunning Patwon Ki Haveli, one of the largest and most intricately designed mansions in Jaisalmer. With five stories and exquisite carvings, it’s a true architectural gem. Nearby, discover the beautifully carved Jain Temples, home to some of India’s oldest manuscripts, offering a glimpse into the country’s ancient spiritual heritage.

Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at a luxurious 5-star hotel before returning to the comfort of the train for a brief rest and afternoon tea. By 4:30 PM, head to the mesmerizing Sam Sand Dunes in the heart of the Thar Desert for an unforgettable camel ride as the sun sets over the golden sands. The evening continues with a vibrant cultural performance and a lavish dinner at a 5-star hotel. Return to your luxury train in India by 10:00 PM for your next adventure.

Day 6 (Monday): Jodhpur, Heart of Marwar

The luxury train in India arrives in Jodhpur at 8:00 AM. After breakfast onboard, you’ll set out to explore the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, a 16th-century fortress perched 125 meters above the city. The fort’s gateways, designed to thwart enemy forces, lead to royal palatial apartments and vast courtyards. Inside, a museum displays an impressive collection of royal garments and medieval weaponry, offering a glimpse into the regal past.

Nearby, visit the serene Jaswant Thada, a white marble memorial dedicated to the royal family, and later, the museum at Umaid Bhawan Palace, showcasing personal artifacts of the Maharaja of Jodhpur. Savor a luxurious lunch at the Hanwant Mahal Boutique Restaurant before returning to your train. Depart by 3:30 PM, with dinner served onboard as you continue your royal journey.

Day 7 (Tuesday Early Morning): Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Start your day early at 6:30 AM with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Start on a serene cycle rickshaw ride, where you can witness over 375 species of birds, including both local and migratory birds from regions such as Sri Lanka, Europe, Siberia, China, and Tibet. After this enchanting experience, return to your luxury train in India for breakfast and depart by 8:45 AM.

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

Arrive at the outskirts of Agra by 10:30 AM, where your journey through this historic city begins. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Agra Fort, once the seat of the mighty Mughal Empire. Following a sumptuous lunch at the prestigious ITC Mughal Hotel, visit the world-renowned Taj Mahal. This awe-inspiring white marble masterpiece, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, is a timeless symbol of love and perfection. Afterward, enjoy some leisure time for shopping and discovering local crafts. Return to your luxury train in India for dinner and depart for your next destination.

Day 8 (Wednesday): Return to New Delhi

The Palace on Wheels arrives at Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station by 5:30 AM. Enjoy an early breakfast onboard before checking out by 7:15 AM, marking the end of your luxurious journey.

Note:

• The Palace on Wheels on-board management reserves the right to adjust tour timings based on local logistics.
• Off-board meal locations may vary depending on availability.