- The Palace on Wheels offers a 7-night luxury train journey through Rajasthan and Agra
- The train features 14 themed coaches with royal decor and modern amenities including Wi-Fi
- Guests enjoy meals in two royal-style dining cars serving Indian and international cuisine
The Palace on Wheels, consistently ranked among the world's most luxurious train journeys, remains one of India's most iconic travel experiences. Once reserved for the royalty of Rajasthan, the Nizams of Hyderabad and distinguished guests, this celebrated train continues to offer travellers a chance to experience the grandeur of a bygone era. Introduced in 1982 in partnership with the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC), it blends regal decor, impeccable Indian hospitality and a carefully curated itinerary.
Watch the video below to take a sneak peek inside the train:
Train Route: Where Every Stop Feels Like A Page From Indian History
Departing from Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station, the Palace on Wheels traces a carefully curated 7-night, 8-day circuit through some of India's most evocative destinations. The journey showcases the highlights of Rajasthan - from Jaipur, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur to Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur - before continuing to Agra for the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
Along the way, guests experience a mix of culture, wildlife and adventure: an elephant ride at Jaipur's Amber Fort, a jeep safari in Ranthambore National Park, a sunset visit to Chittorgarh Fort, a boat ride on Lake Pichola, and a camel safari across Jaisalmer's Sam Sand Dunes. Travellers also explore Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, followed by birdwatching in Bharatpur.
Photo Credit: Palace on Wheels
Train Cabins Inspired By Rajasthan's Legendary Kingdoms
Each of the train's 14 coaches is named after a former princely state and decorated to reflect that region's heritage. With rich silks, antique-style furnishings and artistic touches, the cabins blend historic opulence with modern amenities. All cabins are air-conditioned and include private bathrooms, premium toiletries, Wi-Fi, safety lockers, telephones and adjustable temperature controls. Each guest is also assigned a Khidmatgar - a dedicated attendant available day and night.
Dining Cars That Feel Straight Out Of A Royal Court
Meals are served in two beautifully designed restaurant cars - Swarn Mahal (The Maharajah) and Sheesh Mahal (The Maharani). Both offer spacious seating and an ambience inspired by royal dining halls. Guests can enjoy a variety of Indian and international dishes, prepared fresh in the onboard kitchen.
A Menu Crafted For Kings And Queens
A typical dinner menu includes soups, salads, continental favourites and Indian classics such as Mutton Rogan Josh, Dal Makhani and Kandhari Pulao, alongside desserts like gulab jamun and ice cream. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available at every meal.
Photo Credit: Palace on Wheels
Lounge Made For Slow Travel And Serene Evenings
After a day of sightseeing, guests can relax in the lounge car, decorated with traditional accents, vintage-style furnishings, and floral arrangements. With books, magazines and indoor games available, it provides the perfect setting for unwinding or exchanging travel stories.
Ayurvedic Spa Offering Rejuvenation On The Move
The spa car offers Ayurvedic massages and wellness treatments delivered by trained therapists. With calming interiors and professional care, it is one of the most rejuvenating aspects of the journey, especially after long excursions.
How Much Does The Royal Ride Cost?
Fares for the Palace on Wheels depend on the season and the type of occupancy. Prices begin at USD 6,048 (approximately Rs 5.56 lakh) per person for double occupancy during the lean months. Lean season includes April and September, while peak season runs from October to March. The train does not operate from May to August. Certain special departures may incur additional charges.
The fare covers accommodation, all meals and non-alcoholic drinks, guided sightseeing tours, entrance fees to monuments, a camel ride in Jaisalmer, a shared jeep safari in Ranthambore, a boat ride in Udaipur and a rickshaw ride in Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - ensuring that the experience feels truly all-inclusive.
