There’s travel. And then there’s travel that feels like a love letter from the past — a journey where velvet, vintage, and the scent of sandalwood follow you across desert sands. Welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels India, where every chug feels like a heartbeat from a different century.
You are not just going to ride a train. You will step into into a living museum that moves — a story carved in brass, silk, and tradition.
Palace on Wheels India is not Just a train, but a time machine
When the journey begin in Delhi, the platform itself feel different. Uniformed staff, marigold garlands, and a traditional aarti set the tone. As you step inside your coach — named after princely states like Udaipur or Jodhpur — you will be transported.
The walls? Handcrafted silk. The beds? Fit for a maharaja. The hospitality? Impeccable. A butler who remembers your tea preference after one order? That’s the kind of detail that lingers.
The Route: A Royal Tour of Rajasthan & Beyond
The Palace on Wheels India covers more than just destinations — it unfolds eras. Over seven nights and eight days, you glide through:
- Jaipur: Ride elephants at Amber Fort, shop for handmade blue pottery.
- Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore): Catch a glimpse of a Bengal tiger if you’re lucky.
- Chittorgarh: Explore tales of valor in its towering fortresses.
- Udaipur: Think palaces floating on lakes, and sunsets that melt your soul.
- Jaisalmer: Sand dunes, camel rides, and folk songs under the stars.
- Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort steals your breath (and your heart).
- Bharatpur & Agra: End with birdwatching bliss and the ethereal Taj Mahal.
Each stop is a carefully choreographed mix of history, culture, cuisine, and comfort. You aren’t rushed. You are guided.
What It’s Like Onboard: A Day in the Palace on Wheels India
Mornings begin with soft chimes and fresh coffee, brought by your dedicated khidmatgar (attendant). After a hearty breakfast, you disembark for guided explorations. When you return, cold towels and welcome drinks await.
Afternoons are for leisurely lunches in the onboard dining cars — Maharaja and Maharani. Menus blend Rajasthani thalis with international fare. Ever had Laal Maas followed by tiramisu on a train? It works.
Evenings are for mingling in the lounge, unwinding with live music, or enjoying a head massage in the onboard spa. It’s indulgent, without being over the top. So Palace on Wheels India is truly a royal experience.
Who Is It For?
This isn’t for the checklist traveler. The Palace on Wheels India is for seekers of stories, for those who understand that how you travel is just as important as where you go. It’s perfect for honeymooners, culture lovers, history buffs, and dreamers.
If you’ve ever wondered how Indian royalty once lived — this is your window.
Essential Details (Because Dreams Need Planning)
💰 Price Range
As of the latest season, here’s the approximate cost:
- Per Person (Double Occupancy): ₹5,10,000 (~$6,000 USD)
- Per Person (Single Occupancy): ₹7,00,000 (~$8,300 USD)
- Super Deluxe Suite: ₹10,78,000 (~$12,800 USD)
Prices include all meals, guided tours, entrance fees, and onboard services.
📅 Timings & Schedule
- Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days
- Departure Day: Every Wednesday from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi
- Season: Operates from September to April (closed during summer)
🛎️ How to Book
Booking your seat on this royal ride is easier than you’d expect. You can reserve directly through:
- ✅ Official site: www.palaceonwheelsindia.com
- ✅ State Tourism: rajasthantourism.gov.in
- ✅ Authorized Travel Partners: IRCTC-approved travel agents across the globe
Pro Tip: Book 3–6 months in advance, especially during peak season (Oct–Feb).
Is It Worth It?
Let’s be honest — the Palace on Wheels India isn’t cheap. But it’s not meant to be. This is once-in-a-lifetime luxury, the kind you remember not just for what you saw, but how you felt.
It’s waking up in the Thar Desert with the sound of temple bells in the distance. It’s sipping wine while watching forts roll past your window. It’s dancing with Rajasthani folk artists under moonlight in Jaisalmer.
And sometimes, it’s just sipping chai in your plush cabin, marveling at the art of slow, thoughtful travel.
Final Words: Some Journeys Change You
In a world obsessed with speed and efficiency, the Palace on Wheels India offers something radical — the joy of slowing down. It’s not just luxury. It’s legacy. And you don’t just ride it. You live it.
So if your soul has been craving something richer, deeper, and way more memorable than a beach resort or a city tour, maybe it’s time to travel the royal way.
Let the train move. You just… be.
Official Travel References (Plan Smart!)
- Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism): www.incredibleindia.org
- Palace on Wheels Official Portal: www.palaceonwheelsindia.com
- IRCTC Tourism: www.irctctourism.com
- Rajasthan Tourism Board: www.rajasthantourism.gov.in
