Palace on Wheels Luxury Train - Ready for a torrid affair with Royalty and Luxury!

Far from your imagination... A majestic creation...

That's Palace on Wheels!

Palace on Wheels, the epitome of luxury and comfort, beckons you to travel back in time to the era of raja-maharajas. A feather in the cap of Rajasthan, Palace on Wheels is one of the most luxurious trains in the world. Reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, the train offers a heritage tour high on luxury. It was once the personal railway coaches of the Maharajas of the princely states of Rajasthan, Gujrat and the Nizam of Hyderabad.

Embark on this royal journey, get treated like a 'king' and explore several enchanting destinations of North India. Offering 7 nights/8 days of a royal journey, the train covers Jaipur (the Pink city), Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambhor National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur (the city of Lakes), the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the symbol of love and romance, Agra, before returning to Delhi, the capital of India.

History

The pride of Indian Railways, Palace on Wheels has a glorious history. Its luxury coaches were once used by the? raja-maharajas of the bygone era. Recapturing the "royal era", the train mirrors the rich heritage of the princely states of India. Occupying a prized place among the most luxurious trains in the world, Palace on Wheels started as a fascinating holiday train on 26th January, 1982. And became operational in October of the same year.

Palace on Wheels was the brainchild of Indian Railways and Rajasthan Tourism. To recreate the charm of the glorious era, thirteen carriages from different princely states were brought together and renovated. This luxurious train was launched with unmatched facilities and services to offer its passengers a journey soaked in royalty and luxury.

The luxurious Palace on Wheels offers 7 Nights/ 8 Days tour, soaked in luxury and royalty to the hilt. The train starts from Delhi on every Wednesday of the week.

Day 01 - (Wednesday) : Delhi - The Capital City

Highlights

• Passenger reporting at station
• Energizing welcome with traditions
• Start of tour

The signature journey begins in the evening with an energizing welcome, accompanied by shehnais and a welcome drink at Safdarjung, Delhi. The royal treatment will start till the time you enter into the coaches along with perfectly designed rooms and services. Delhi was chosen as a starting point for its rich and prestigious history setting the perfect stage for this luxurious journey.

Imagine, the royal entry where royalty is present in every segment, from entering into the train with the sound of shehnais to wearing turbans upon your head with a fragrant garland and traditional tikka on your forehead. The thought of such a grand entry is enough to make you feel splendor of royalty and luxury. The general manager of the train will come personally to welcome you and introduce you to the dedicated team, for ensuring your every need is met with precision. and luxury.

Once your memorable journey begins, you can explore your palace that is filled with refinement and luxury at every turn. With a gorgeous bright turban, you will feel a little more immersed in royalty and can enjoy your journey with your favorite drink at the bar. As twilight falls, you will be served with delicious a dinner featuring a variety cuisines all cooked with love and perfection ensuring your journey is unforgettable.

The journey will transport you to the bygone era of India allowing you to experience the same level of luxury aboard the train. With the royal welcome in Safdarjung in Delhi, your journey of unmatchable luxury starts where every moment seems to be magnificent.

Day 02 - (Thursday) : Jaipur - The Pink City

Highlights

• Chittorgarh Fort
• Ranthambore National Park Safari
• Chittorgarh light & Sound Show

Embark on the journey with the streets of Jaipur, the pink city and the glimmering gem of Rajasthan`s crown. Jaipur is not just an ordinary city; it is crafted with so much of masterpieces introduced by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727. The city boasts architectural brilliance and symphony of royal past that revamps the soul of the city.

Once you start exploring Jaipur, you will find so much of artistic perfection and the echoes of bygone craftsmen will take your heart away. The city has so much to offer from glittering jewels in the textiles to unforgettable flavours in your plate. Jaipur is a complete feast for a lively traveler.

While exploring the city, you will find you will notice the painted buildings- “The pink City of India” and these Structures stand as testament of architectural brilliance and town planning of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The city not only feast your eyes but the melodious music and rich tapestry of artists will harmonize your ears. The artisans in Jaipur showcase some really unmatchable artistry through their jeweler and textiles that creates a perfect landscape of royalty.

The glided streets, adorned with bright, colorful artistry are irresistible. Every cornerstone of the city tells a unique story about the past of the city and its royalty. Every hued edifice of the city has so much to talk about the royalty of its monarch. These colorful architectures, finely fabricated music and elegantly designed fabric makes Jaipur, an inseparable part of Indian history. With this journey, you can fabricate your memories with lavish flavours of Jaipur and resonant melodies of traditional music that will create unforgettable memories of Indian history and heritage.

Day 03 - (Friday) : Sawai Madhopur - Chittorgarh

Highlights

• Amber fort
• Elephant ride
• Local markets
• Sightseeing and exploration

Beyond the brilliance of architecture, there is a place where royalty echoes louder and that place is Sawai Madhopur of Rajasthan. Sawai Madhopur will be your next destination named after Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. This city resides in close proximity with Ranthambore National Park and offer great glimpse of royalty.

Before moving forward, prepare yourself to experience the haven of diverse wildlife where tigers reign the territory and show their regal presence in the territory. The city is deeply connected with vibrant forests and whispers the language of ancient history with its 10th century fort standing in the city.

Chittorgarh is a place where valour and glory echoes loudly and it can easily captivate you with its unwavering devotion. The history of Chittorgarh remarks stirring chapters in India, being one of the most powerful and contested seats of power in India. This place remains very sacred for Rajputs as it represents their unwavering spirit in tough times when others lost their momentum. This place got recognition in 2013 when included in the list of UNESCO world Heritage Site.

The Bhimlat Kund of Chittorgarh find its traces from Mahabharata, as it is believed that the construction of Bhimlat Kund was attributed by Bhima when he got stuck and with all his might, he created this reservoir. Chittorgarh is one of those places that will remain in your hearts forever and whispering stories of valor and courage.

Day 04 - (Saturday) : Udaipur - The City of Lakes

Highlights

• City attractions
• Lunch at Heritage Hotel
• Boat ride at Lake Pichola
• Painting Class

Now, your journey will take a slight turn to beauty as we head towards Udaipur. The city was named after Rana Udai Singh and is renowned for its numerous lakes that enchants its charm. The stunning views and locations make Udaipur, one of the most romantic cities, intertwined with legendary love stories of ancient time rulers.

Along with its romance, the city also offers great splendors of architecture that again shows the brilliance of bygone architecture. This city is a perfect place to collect multiple souvenirs with its rich history that serving as a reminder of the royalty that once graced the land.

The Jag Mandir in Udaipur will surely captivate you with its majestic view surrounded by clear blue water which seems unreal but a real masterpiece of Indian architecture. You will reach there through ferry which itself will be an artistic adventure for you that will not only amaze you about the bygone era but also questions many scientific theories. The Jag Mandir is so precisely designed that it seems to be heavenly from a significant height as if its belongs to your dream.

A Brush with colorful thoughts and a cruise of beauty

After a fulfilling lunch, we offer you an opportunity to showcase your colorful thoughts through brush and colors. You can get the opportunity to join painting classes under the guidance of a professional painter. This activity will not only introduce you to an artform but also immerse you in the world of natural colors.

To further enhance your experience, We will take you on a boat ride across lake pichola to a 5 star hotel for a delightful lunch. Here, you can savor delicious food while enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake. However, your destination will be Jag Mandir which is a historical marvel located right at the center of the lake. But the experience of savoring delicious lunch in the lake will undoubtedly become a cherished memory.

Day 05 - (Sunday) : Jaisalmer - The Golden City

Highlights

• Sightseeing tour
• Camel safari at Sam Sand Dunes
• Cultural show

Your romanticized mood will take a royal turn once we enter in Jaisalmer- “Golden City”. This city was named after Rawal Jaisal who found it in 1156 and the name of the city translates itself as “the hill fort of Jaisal” representing the magnificent structure that will be the part of crown jewel.

This city located in the heart of India's only desert- Thar Desert, which is also the largest sand desert region of the world. Even after so much of sand dunes around, Jaisalmer shines with its stunning architecture. After sunsets, the sandstone forts of Jaisalmer glorify its magic. After witnessing this view, you will actually understand why Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City.

Once you step into Jaisalmer, prepare to travel back to the journey of bygone period as the city exudes of rustic charm with roads lined with mansions and havelis. Many of them are already included in the list of World Heritage Site and these architectural feature intricate marvels of detailing of every corner that glorifies the rich past of this place.

A royal night under Bigger Fort

To give you the real essence of Jaisalmer, we will organize a special dinner under desert sky at “Sun Dew”. With ascending darkness, the elegance of Jaisalmer Fort begins glorifying and slightly turn into Golden Fort after illumination. The golden sight of sandstone bathed in warm hue will be breathtaking. Dining under the open sky with the glowing fort in the background will create an unforgettable experience.

Day 06 - (Monday) : Jodhpur - The Blue City

Highlights

• Sightseeing Tour
• Lunch at Luxurious Hotel

The feeling of royalty will reach to its peak as you arrive Jodhpur, the “Blue City”. The city was founded by Rao Jodha,Rajput king in 1459 and considered to be the second largest city of Rajasthan.

The sense of this place begins as you approach the town of Mandor. The Royal Brass Band of Mehrangarh Fort will make your arrival even more special, offering glimpse of royal entries from bygone era. The vibrant melodies of your arrival will set a perfect tone for exploration of royal paradise.

Jodhpur is renowned for its magnificent forts and palaces which stands as a testament of unmatched power of past. However, the beauty of Jodhpur goes beyond the royal architecture as the ordinary houses of Jodhpur will give you a glimpse of delicate stonework and exquisite craftmanship. The design of carved windows gives a great testament of rich architectural heritage. The indigo hue that washes over the city is captivating and contributes to jodhpur’s title of “Blue City of India”. This touch of indigo enhance the charm of city and making it irresistibly appealing.

Prepare yourself for vibrant fusion of artistry and history in Jodhpur experience an unforgettable part of your memory.

Day 07 - (Tuesday) : Bharatpur - Agra

Highlights

• Safari to Keoladeo National Park
• Sightseeing tour
• Taj Mahal
• Local market tour

The journey of royal adventure will take an exciting turn as you enter Bharatpur, a city of architectural brilliance. The city founded by Jat King Maharaja Suraj Mal in the 17th century and at that time, the city was completely fortified and known as “Lohagarh” (The Iron Fort). The resilience of its military and its architecture helped the city to withstand numerous foreign attacks.

Lohagarh is a masterpiece in its defensive techniques as the stratified and tough walls of the fort are enough to resist enemy`s attacks. Also, the periphery of the fort surrounded with heavy jaw crocodiles makes the enemy rethink before attack. These are some of the most important things that makes Lohagarh “The Invincible Garh” of bygone era. Lohagarh is a perfect fusion of strategical military resilience and exquisite craftmanship. The fort has two entry gates with Northern gate named as Ashtadhatu which is engraved with pictures of elephants while the southern gate is named as Chowburja which is a four pillared gate. Moreover, the artilleries, armors, artefacts and weapons are so delicately preserved that they will give you an eye catching moment.

The expedition to Keoladeo National Park which is also a UNESCO world heritage site has so much things to offer. The park is home to vibrant migratory birds from across the world including China and Siberia. You will surely get captivated with the majesty of Siberian Cranes, Kingfishers, Storks, bee-eaters, Herons and other birds migrated in different seasons. Bharatpur is one of the rarest kingdoms which is ruled by the Jat kings and Maharaja Suraj Mal played an important role in the formation of Bharatpur. Your journey of exploration will be followed by a breakfast at Mahal Khas that has its own rich history of 198 years. This place was once the residence of Maharaja Suraj Mal makes it even more special. Today, Mahal Khas is owned by Mr. Bhagat Singh who opened this place for delicious saviors even after such historical significance to fuel your journey with historic landmarks.

Now after covering all the historical landmarks in Bharatpur, the journey will turn towards Agra which is again a historically significant center. Located on the banks of Yamuna, the city was formed by Sultan Sikandar Lodi in 1504 erstwhile ruler of Delhi. But according to many experts, Agra got its soul after Mughal artistry and splendid masterpieces. Agra is the most prominent center of Mughal architecture, home to one of the most iconic structures i.e. Taj Mahal. This monument was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of Mumtaz Mahal to embody his love and artistry. The architecture includes white marble engraved with precious stones and artistry that will leave you surprised. As you will start exploring this architecture, you will get captivated in the story of eternal love that Taj Mahal represents.

Agra, the city fused with architectural wonders and historically significant places will surely become an undetachable part of your memory. Prepare yourself to see the legacy of Mughal era and their architecture included in the most iconic city of India.

Day 08 - (Wednesday) : Delhi

Highlights

• Tour ends here

Here is the end of unforgettable journey – the Palace on Wheels schedule is described in detail as above. This journey was started with so much of curiosity and aspirations through train journey. The train will arrive Delhi at 7:00AM and we hope that by the time train will reach to its final destination, you will be filled with so much of unforgettable memories and experiences. The final breakfast will be served at 7:30 AM and it will be to check out. We thank you for your cooperation and support with the staff and hope to meet again for more memories. Best wishes and Travel Safely!

Delhi
Delhi, the versatile city, is a perfect blend of traditions and modernity. It is the capital of an incredible country, India. It is a major political, cultural and commercial city of the country.... Jaipur
Jaipur, the princely state of Rajasthan, is enveloped in sheer royalty. It is popularly known as the Pink city as most of its buildings and establishments are painted in pink coloura.... Sawai Madhopur
Sawai Madhopur is a wonderful city located in the royal state of Rajasthan. It is well known for its world-famous Ranthambore National Park, the tiger reserve...... Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh is the land synonymous with bravery and chivalry. It is a rustic city located in the royal state of Rajasthan. Every corner of this destination echoes the tales of...... Udaipur
Hemmed in by the Aravali ranges, dominated by stunning palaces and beautified by romantic lakes, Udaipur is an overwhelming city. Fondly dubbed as the 'Venice of East'.... Jaisalmer
The pride of the land of raja-maharajas, Jaisalmer is a city offering the real taste of Rajasthan. Affectionately dubbed as the 'Golden City'( as most of its structures..... Jodhpur
Jodhpur, the oasis in the desert is affectionately dubbed as the Sun City of India (for its sunny weather). It is also known as the 'Blue City' as most of its buildings and..... Bharatpur
Bharatpur is the princely city of Rajasthan, which is internationally famed for its Bharatpur National Park, a World Heritage Site. Once the capital of a kingdom.... Agra
The very word Agra conjures up the images of the incredible Taj Mahal. Agra is a legendary city housing one of the Seven Wonders of the world - The Taj Mahal.....

Annexure – Tariff / Fare for season 2025-26 (ending in April 2026)

Schedule

Palace on Wheels starts its journey on every Wednesday of the week from Delhi.

Prices in US$
Prices in INR for Indian National

• GST as applicable shall be charged extra.
• The Tariff is fixed in Indian currency for the guest having Indian Passport. INR prices are subject to change once in 2 months. current is as per 1st Dec 2023.
• Tariff for the children aging 5 years and above but less than 12 years shall be charged @75%, Subject to sharing of double bed
• Tariff for the children aging up to 5 years will be charged @ 15%, subject to sharing in double bed Cabin only.
• Operator under information to RTDC reserves the right to cancel any tour/trip as per the occupancy (min 50%) and booking forecast until 20 days before the departure.
• Operator or RTDC is not liable for any financial charges or, other reservations charges incurred by client in case of cancellation.
• Operator, under information to RTDC reserves the right to revise the tariff at any time without any prior intimation.

This policy and tariff shall be affected from the date of issuing of this notice/order for the new Reservation Booking.

Booking & Payment Procedure

• 25% of the ticket value against advance at the time of booking along with the list of guests/Pax and their passport scanned soft copies.
• Balance payment 60 days prior to the departure date.
• If the balance payment is not made at least 60 days prior to the departure date, a penalty of 12% interest will be applied.
• In case of bookings made  within 60 days prior to departure  date  then  100% payment  shall be  deposited  to  the  authorised  O&M operator  along  with  the booking details.
• The rate of exchange prevailing on the date of transaction would be applicable as per the RBI.
• GST as applicable shall be charged extra.
• Tariff for the children aging up to 5 years will be charged @15%.
• Tariff for the children  aging above 5 years but less than 12 years shall charge @75%.
• One cabin has occupancy of 2 Pax only.
• The Tariff in Indian currency is fixed for the guests having valid Indian Nationality proof i.e., Valid Indian passport & OCI card holders (valid proof for the same need to be submitted at the time of booking in case of any variance in the documents than Dollar rate would be applicable).

Cancellation Rules for Deduction of amount

• 10% of ticket value shall be deducted on cancellation between 120 to 90 days before the travel date.
• 25% of ticket value shall be deducted  on cancellation between  89 to 60 days before the travel date.
• 50% of the ticket value shall be deducted  on cancellation around  59 to 30days before the travel date.
• No refund shall be admissible in case the booking is cancelled within 29 days before the departure  date.
• On cancellation of booking Suo-moto by Operator  100% of the fund deposited (without any kind of charges / claims) will be refunded.
• However, Operator  will not  be liable for any refund  or compensation for any services such as pre / post accommodation, airline tickets, and excursions etc. that have been booked by the guest and/or their Travel Agent.
• Operator, under information to RTDC reserves the right to cancel the tour/trips at any given point of time to whatsoever reasons, 100% of received amount will be refunded in such cases
• Operator will review and apprise the agents of such instances 60days prior to departure in case of low occupancy.
• Operator has the right to decide the same between  45days to 30days of the departure and officially inform the agents or individuals of such bookings.
• The  minimum  occupancy defined  is of 50% to run the  operations,  that  is 17cabins.

No show/ En route termination of tour/amendment:

• No Show: In case of no show/non-arrival of the guest, no refund or adjustment future travel will be possible. The whole amount  shall be treated  as forfeited. However, under the circumstances like Natural Disaster / Natural Calamity/National Security Events etc. the matter will be favorably considered by the Authorized Operator to the extent of Tourist/Passengers satisfaction as well as their comfort for better luxury travel experience and related promotions.
• EN Route termination of tour: In Case termination of tour by the guest, for any reasons, no refund or adjustment for future travel will be admissible. The amount for unused portion of the tour shall be treated  as forfeited.

Schedule

The luxurious Palace on Wheels starts its journey on every Wednesday of the week from Delhi Cant Railway Station. The train is in operation only during September to April every year. To maintain its high standards, the train requires a lot of maintenance and renovation. So during rest of the months it does not operate.

Palace on Wheels starts its journey on every Wednesday of the week from Delhi.

Facilities

Royal Accommodation

For a majestic experience, the train offers 14 fully air conditioned deluxe saloons named after the princely states of Rajasthan. Each saloon has 4 cabins fitted with bath and shower, intercom, channel music, satellite phones, wall to wall carpeting and other amenities. Adorned like a palace, the saloons offer a truly royal experience.

Attendant

To take care of your every need, an attendant or 'Khidmatgar' is available at your service round the clock.

Restaurants

Done to perfection, the two restaurants namely “The Maharaja” and "The Maharani" serve lip-smacking Rajasthani, Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisine.

Bar

Well stocked with Indian and international brands of alcohol, the bar remains open round the clock.

Lounge

Each coach has an attached well maintained lounge for passengers to enjoy their leisure. Each lounge provides amenities like colour TV, CD player, news papers, magazines and other books.

The Bazaar

The train also offers "The Bazaar" (a shop) where you can shop for a variety of handicrafts.

To make your stay comfortable, the other facilities and services provided on board are laundry services, barbershop, beauty parlours, indoor games, medical aid, mailbox, luggage collection, arrival kit, mineral water etc.
The train also offers special assistance for disabled persons. Wheel chairs, cr?ches and a special attendant are provided for assistance.

Attractions

Although Palace on Wheel is a great attraction in itself but to add more entertainment to your journey, it has something more in store for you. It offers cultural programmes on board and on arriving at destinations such as regional dance performances and puppet shows. These especially designed cultural programs provide a refreshing effect to the passengers. At every halt, your get an excellent opportunity to see the finest performances performed by talented artists.

Enjoy overwhelming dance performances like:

Ghoomar Dance

It is a community dance performed by women in groups on auspicious occasions. In this simple dance, ladies move gracefully in circles.

Chari Dance

Chari means 'a pot'. The dance includes dancing with a pot, on one's head where an illuminated lamp is placed.

Fire Dance

This dance involves a huge fire in which men of Jasnathi community jump in the fire. The dance is performed with the sound of drumbeats.

Terah Thali

In this dance, men play a Chau-tara, a four-stringed instrument and women hold a sword between their teeth. It also involves placing of pots with illuminated lamps on their heads.

Kalbelia Dance

This dance is performed by Kalbelia women who dance gracefully and as the accompanying music rises in tempo, it makes the dance more vigorous.