Most Expensive Train in India: Explore the Palace on Wheels
The Palace on Wheels is recognized as the most expensive train in India, offering an unparalleled journey through the country’s rich heritage and scenic landscapes. Inspired by the royal carriages of Rajasthan’s Maharajas, this luxury train symbolizes extravagance, making it a premier choice for elite travelers.
The train’s high cost is justified by its lavish interiors, personalized services, and exclusive itineraries. Each cabin is elegantly designed with intricate decor, plush furnishings, and modern amenities, creating a regal ambiance. The train offers a gourmet dining experience with global and traditional cuisines served in two exquisite restaurants, Maharaja and Maharani. Additionally, guests enjoy access to a spa, bar, and a plush lounge, ensuring comfort and opulence throughout the journey.
The Palace on Wheels covers a majestic itinerary, starting from Delhi and exploring iconic destinations like Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and the Taj Mahal in Agra, capturing the essence of India’s history, culture, and natural beauty. This comprehensive journey of luxury both on-board and off-board, along with the bespoke experience, justifies its premium pricing. For those seeking a truly royal experience, the Palace on Wheels remains the ultimate choice in Indian rail travel.
History of Palace on Wheels
The Palace on Wheels, India’s first luxury train, is all about reliving the royal era while traveling in style. Known as the most expensive train in India, it offers a journey that blends luxury, history, and adventure seamlessly. Guests enjoy overnight travel in cozy, air-conditioned cabins, waking up each morning to explore Rajasthan’s magnificent destinations in comfort.
Inspired by the grand journeys of past Maharajas and the British Viceroy, the train began its royal journey in 1982. Originally featuring the actual saloons of the royals, it was designed to deliver an authentic regal experience. Over time, the train evolved to include modern comforts while keeping its royal essence intact. In 1996, it introduced spacious cabins with private bathrooms, elevating the luxury quotient further.
In 2017, the Palace on Wheels upgraded to more spacious carriages, offering a choice between Deluxe and Super Deluxe cabins, enhancing the overall experience. It’s not just the journey but the entire experience of royal travel that makes this train special. If you’re looking for the most luxurious travel experience in India, the Palace on Wheels promises unmatched elegance and comfort, making it truly the most expensive train in India.
Facilities of Palace on Wheels Luxury Train
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 most expensive train in 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 most expensive train in 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 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 tour, 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 Jewel of the 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 most expensive train in India experience. Dinner will be served onboard as the train departs for the next destination.
Day 5 (Sunday): Jaisalmer: The Desert Oasis
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.
Day 6 (Monday): Jodhpur: The 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 – The 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.
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.
The tour officially comes to an end upon your return to Delhi. Please note that the onboard management of the Palace on Wheels may adjust the tour timings based on local logistics to ensure a smooth experience. Additionally, the hotels or restaurants designated for off-board meals are subject to change, depending on availability and circumstances.
