Crisscrossing across Indian terrain, covering the most prominent cities in India, Palaces On Wheels passes through historical structures, palaces, and mighty forts in the “Land of Kings”, Rajasthan, and the “City of Love”, Agra. This luxury train is the best way to experience India’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, especially for first-timers.

Palace On Wheels is a cruise on wheels, providing you with the luxury experience. Due to its impeccable services, this luxury train has been voted the 4th best luxury train in the world, giving you more reasons to indulge in the charm of the bygone era.

History 

The first thought of creating this masterpiece emerged when the royal carriages of Maharajas (Kings) and high personnel ceased post Independence. Then, the Rajasthan tourism department took it upon itself to promote tourism in Rajasthan to all the corners of the world by converting them into luxury trains.

As a result, the first luxury train in India, Palace On Wheels, came into existence on 26th January 1982. The train is a joint venture of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Indian Railways. It was named Palace On Wheels as it represented the royal carriages that were once used by the Indian Maharajas, Viceroys of British India, and Nizams.

Coaches

To showcase Rajasthan’s history, the coaches on Palace On Wheels were named after the princely states of Rajputana. Interiors are also designed to describe the history and attractions affixed to the coach.

There are 14 guest coaches on the train with ethnic furnishing. They are –

01: Alwar
02: Bharatpur
03: Bikaner
04: Bundi
05: Dholpur
06: Dungargarh
07: Jaisalmer
08: Jaipur
09: Jhalawar
10: Jodhpur
11: Kishangarh
12: Kota
13: Sirohi
14: Udaipur

Cabins

Representing true royalty, Palace On Wheels offers 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins. Each cabin is beautifully decorated, inspired by the former dynasties that ruled Rajasthan. The cabins do not just look exquisite but have the amenities required for the guests’ comfort.

Palace On Wheels cabins are designed with stunning art and silk fabrics that ooze luxury, along with antique furniture that transforms you back in time. You will feel like a Maharaja or Maharani all day long.

Furthermore, the cabins have state-of-the-art facilities that make your journey comfortable. These include posh toiletries, attached bathrooms, internet facilities, telephones, and individual temperature control, among others. In addition, a personal attendant called a Khidmatgar is always present to cater to your needs.

Dining 

One of the most luxurious trains in the world, Palace On Wheels offers a royal dining experience like no other. Recreating an ambiance of the erstwhile Maharajas, Viceroys, and Nizams, dining onboard is the prime highlight of your luxury train tour.

Palace On Wheels has two dining restaurants – Maharaja (King) Restaurant and Maharani (Queen) Restaurant. Both serve well-known international and sumptuous Indian cuisines, including traditional Rajasthani and Marwari dishes, making it a hard choice.

The interiors of the dining cars feature hanging chandeliers, rich fabric, wall lamps, rich mahogany panels, delicate glass carvings, and exotic cutlery that makes the dining experience memorable.

Bar

After a long day of sightseeing, unwind at the bar on Palace On Wheels. Then, relax and exchange words with co-passengers in the Royal Bar, which serves non-alcoholic beverages from international/Indian brands along with delicious snacks.

Lounge & Spa  

Take full advantage of the world-class facilities onboard Palace On Wheels. Another way to relax after an excursion is in the Sitting Lounge or rejuvenating your body at a Health Spa.

  • Sitting Lounge: It is perfect for alone time. For that, the train has provided a collection of books and magazines along with indoor games for recreational activity.
  • Spa Car: Pamper yourself to an exotic health spa in the Royal Spa Car. There are professional therapists that treat you to the popular Ayurveda Health massage, treatments, and therapies to put your body and mind at ease.

Facilities

As mentioned, Palace On Wheels cabins offer state-of-the-art facilities and service to make the guest’s journey as comfortable and luxurious as possible. The train has stylish decor and stunning interiors fitted with modern amenities, making your royal voyage extraordinary.

Some of the facilities offered on India’s best luxury train tour across Rajasthan are –

  • The Saloon
  • Dining and Cuisine
  • The Bar
  • Sitting Lounge
  • Bedroom Spa
  • Events onboard
  • Medical Aid
  • Wheelchair Assistance
  • Personal Attendant (Khidmatgar)
  • Smoking
  • Welcome Drink and Arrival Kit
  • Security
  • Personal Travel Insurance
  • Toiletries
  • Special Meals / Dietary Requirement / Medical Conditions
  • Hair Dryers
  • Laundry
  • Embarkation & Disembarkation
  • Newspapers / Magazines

Palace On Wheels Itinerary 

Unlike other luxury trains in India, Palace On Wheels has one signature itinerary, well-curated to create a holistic trip in India. Starting and ending in New Delhi, the train crisscrosses eight culturally and historically significant places.

  • Route Map of Palace On Wheels: Delhi – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi

Awards and Recognition

The awards are a testament to the royal voyage Palace On Wheels takes you on, offering you a luxury treatment throughout. Palace On Wheels was awarded the PATA Gold Award in 1987. In 2009, the train was recognized as the “Best Train in Asia”. Its popularity and impeccable services made it the 4th best luxury train in the world, as per a survey conducted by Conde Nast Magazine. In 2018, the train was given the PATWA Award under the “Tourist Train” category.

If you do not want to miss a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, book Palace On Wheels train tickets today. Fill out the form and our expert will contact you to confirm your tickets.To know about our services, click here.