India is a land of royalty, grand palaces, and timeless heritage. If you want to experience this royal charm while traveling in unmatched luxury, the Palace on Wheels is the perfect way to do it. This world-renowned luxury train takes you on an unforgettable journey through the majestic state of Rajasthan, offering comfort, heritage, and adventure—all in one.
What is the Palace on Wheels?
The Palace on Wheels is a luxury tourist train launched by Indian Railways in association with Rajasthan Tourism. It first began operations in 1982 and was inspired by the personal carriages of former Indian kings and queens. As the name suggests, it offers the feel of a moving palace—complete with lavish interiors, fine dining, and royal hospitality.
Each coach is named after a former princely state of Rajasthan and is designed with traditional decor, providing a perfect blend of luxury and heritage. From handcrafted furnishings to ethnic artwork and traditional hospitality, the train offers an experience unlike any other.
Route and Destinations
The Palace on Wheels takes passengers on a 7-night, 8-day journey, covering some of the most iconic destinations in Rajasthan and beyond. The train starts its journey from Delhi and covers the following places:
- Jaipur – Known as the Pink City, famous for the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal.
- Sawai Madhopur – Home to Ranthambore National Park, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Chittorgarh – Known for its grand fort and tales of Rajput bravery.
- Udaipur – The City of Lakes, known for Lake Pichola and the City Palace.
- Jaisalmer – The Golden City, famous for its sand dunes and havelis.
- Jodhpur – Home to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort.
- Bharatpur – Visit the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary.
- Agra – Witness the world-famous Taj Mahal before returning to Delhi.
Every stop includes guided sightseeing, cultural performances, and authentic Rajasthani meals, giving travelers a deep insight into local traditions.
Onboard Facilities
Traveling on the Palace on Wheels is like stepping into a royal era. The train has 14 luxury coaches, each with 3 to 4 cabins equipped with modern facilities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, attached bathrooms, and plush beds.
Other key features include:
- Dining Cars: There are two restaurants, Maharaja and Maharani, serving a mix of Indian, Rajasthani, and continental cuisine.
- Bar Lounge: A well-stocked bar offers the perfect setting to relax with drinks after a day of sightseeing.
- Spa: Rejuvenate with Ayurvedic massages and wellness treatments onboard.
- Attendant Service: Every coach has a personal attendant, or 'Khidmatgar', available 24/7 to cater to guest needs.
Why Choose the Palace on Wheels?
The Palace on Wheels is more than just a train; it is an experience of royal living. Here's why it stands out:
- Heritage Meets Luxury: A rare chance to experience the grandeur of India's royal past while enjoying five-star facilities.
- All-Inclusive Travel: From meals and accommodation to sightseeing and entry tickets—everything is included.
- Time-Efficient: Travel overnight and wake up in a new city each day, saving both time and effort.
- Cultural Immersion: Folk performances, local arts, and traditional cuisine make this journey culturally rich.
Best Time to Travel
The Palace on Wheels usually operates from September to April, avoiding the extreme summer heat. The winter months (October to February) are especially popular due to the pleasant weather, making sightseeing comfortable.
Final Thoughts
If you've ever dreamed of traveling like royalty, the Palace on Wheels is your ticket to making that dream come true. Whether you're a history lover, a luxury seeker, or a cultural explorer, this journey offers the best of Rajasthan in the most regal way possible.
From historic forts and palaces to wildlife safaris and vibrant bazaars, every day onboard the Palace on Wheels is filled with new discoveries and timeless elegance. It's not just a train ride—it's a royal adventure you'll remember forever.
