For those looking to travel like royalty, India’s oldest luxury train, Palace on Wheels, offers an unparalleled experience of opulence, comfort, and cultural immersion. Known for its association with Rajasthan’s royal heritage, this iconic train is now in the midst of its seasonal tours, taking travelers on an eight-day journey through some of India’s most historic and scenic destinations.
A Journey through History and Splendor
Departing from New Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station, the Palace on Wheels embarks on a magnificent journey through Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, offering stops at iconic cities like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bharatpur, and Agra. These destinations are known for their architectural marvels, rich history, and vibrant culture. The tour includes visits to stunning heritage sites like palaces, forts, and the world-famous Taj Mahal, giving travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of India’s regal past.
Royal Comfort Onboard
The Palace on Wheels features 14 luxury deluxe coaches, each named after a former Rajput state, reflecting the cultural grandeur of the region. These coaches are a testament to India’s royal heritage, with intricate interiors that boast silk drapes, premium bedding, and lavish furnishings. Each cabin is equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms, blending royal charm with contemporary comfort.
Exquisite Dining
Onboard, travelers can dine in royal style at two elegantly designed dining cars, Maharaja and Maharani, offering a wide variety of cuisines. Whether it’s Rajasthani delicacies, Indian favorites, Continental dishes, or Chinese meals, the train’s expert chefs prepare gourmet experiences served in lavish banquet settings that harken back to the times of kings.
Bar and Lounge
The Royal Bar is the perfect spot for passengers to unwind with a selection of the finest spirits, wines, and cocktails. The lounge area, adorned with traditional décor, offers a grand setting to relax, socialize, and soak in the royal ambiance.
Rejuvenation on the Rails
For those looking to unwind further, the Palace on Wheels offers an onboard spa featuring Ayurvedic therapies, massages, and beauty treatments. This wellness center provides a tranquil space for travelers to rejuvenate during their journey.
Personalized Royal Service
The hallmark of the Palace on Wheels is its personalized service, reminiscent of royal times. Each coach comes with a dedicated khidmadgar (butler) who attends to the needs of the passengers, ensuring that every aspect of their journey is met with utmost care and attention.
The Grandeur of Heritage Décor
One of the train’s most striking features is its regal interior, with intricate woodwork, luxurious carpets, and tapestries that evoke the grandeur of Rajasthan’s palaces. The walls are adorned with artifacts and paintings, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage, making the experience not only luxurious but also deeply immersive.
Ticket Prices
Travelers can experience this royal journey with tickets starting at INR 81,008 for double occupancy and INR 1,24,583 for single occupancy per night. The Presidential Suite, offering unmatched luxury, is priced at INR 2,91,330 per night during the peak season from October to March.
A Royal Legacy
Launched 42 years ago as a joint initiative by Indian Railways and the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, the Palace on Wheels has become a symbol of India’s royal past and cultural richness. The train has been recognized globally as one of the world’s best luxury tourist trains, offering travelers an exquisite journey through India’s heritage while providing the royal treatment of a bygone era. Passengers can enjoy visits to UNESCO heritage sites, wildlife safaris, and vibrant heritage markets along the way, making the Palace on Wheels more than just a train—it’s a journey through India’s regal legacy.
With its grandeur, unmatched hospitality, and cultural immersion, the Palace on Wheels continues to stand as a timeless tribute to India’s royal heritage, offering an unforgettable travel experience.