What It's Like to Ride the Palace on Wheels Train

India Luxury Tours have redefined the way travelers experience the country's culture, heritage, and royal past. Among the many premium train journeys offered across the country, the Palace on Wheels train stands out. This journey combines heritage, comfort, and curated experiences into a seamless ride. From elegant cabins to cultural excursions, the journey offers more than just transport—it offers a curated lifestyle on rails.

This blog outlines what it’s like to be a guest on this luxurious train, described through the lens of a well-structured, day-by-day experience. Whether you're planning a trip or just curious about the ride, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Introduction to the Palace on Wheels

Launched by Indian Railways and Rajasthan Tourism in 1982, the Palace on Wheels was designed to offer travelers the luxury once enjoyed by Indian royalty. Its decor is inspired by the personal coaches of former rulers, and the route covers Rajasthan’s grandest cities. The train departs from Delhi and loops through Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra before returning to Delhi.

Every part of the train—right from the cabin design to the dining experience—mirrors the elegance of a royal court. In this blog, you’ll get a detailed account of what it’s like to live, travel, and unwind on the Palace on Wheels train.

The Boarding Experience

Warm Welcome at Safdarjung Railway Station

Your journey begins in Delhi, at Safdarjung Railway Station. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a red carpet and traditional garlands. Live music, cultural dance, and a ceremonial welcome give you a preview of what’s ahead. Staff handle check-ins quickly, while you enjoy welcome drinks in the lounge area.

This introduction sets the tone for the entire trip. Right from the start, service is personal, and staff are attentive. The staff-to-guest ratio is high, which helps maintain privacy and comfort throughout the ride.

Inside the Train: Where Royalty Meets Comfort

Cabins That Feel Like Private Suites

Each guest cabin is named after a former princely state of Rajasthan. The interiors include heritage artwork, fine woodwork, and detailed furnishings. Rooms are air-conditioned, have private baths, and include writing desks and wardrobes. Though compact, the layout is smartly designed.

You’ll also be assigned a khidmatgar, or personal butler. This person assists you throughout the trip, offering morning tea, making dinner reservations, and arranging wake-up calls. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.

Lounge and Common Areas

In addition to cabins, the train features well-decorated lounges. These are perfect for relaxing between stops. Whether you're enjoying a book or sipping on a cocktail, the space encourages quiet luxury. Wi-Fi is available but limited to certain areas.

Dining Aboard the Train

Two Onboard Restaurants

The Palace on Wheels train includes two dining cars—Maharaja and Maharani. Both offer a fine dining experience with table service. Chefs prepare meals using fresh ingredients sourced from the route’s stops.

Menus rotate daily and cover Indian, Continental, and Asian dishes. Rajasthani specialties like Dal Baati Churma and Laal Maas are always available. You can request special meals in advance, including vegan, diabetic, or gluten-free options.

Bar and Beverage Service

A well-stocked bar car offers local wines, premium spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great spot for evening conversations. Your khidmatgar can serve drinks in your cabin if you prefer privacy.

Day-Wise Journey Overview

Day 1: Departure from Delhi

Guests arrive at the station by late afternoon. After check-in, the train departs in the evening. A welcome dinner is served onboard as the train makes its way toward Jaipur.

Day 2: Jaipur – The Pink City

Visit landmarks like the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal. The highlight is the guided tour of Amer Fort, followed by an elephant ride or jeep transfer up the fort ramp. Lunch is served at a heritage hotel. Guests return to the train by evening.

Day 3: Sawai Madhopur and Chittorgarh

Start your morning with a safari at Ranthambore National Park. Tigers are rarely seen, but other wildlife is usually spotted. After lunch onboard, the train heads to Chittorgarh. Here, guests explore the massive Chittorgarh Fort before attending a light-and-sound show.

Day 4: Udaipur – City of Lakes

Guests visit the City Palace and take a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Lunch is arranged at a lakeside hotel. There is time for shopping or a visit to the Crystal Gallery before returning to the train.

Day 5: Jaisalmer – Desert Charm

The train arrives in Jaisalmer by mid-morning. Guests explore the Golden Fort and Patwon Ki Haveli. After lunch, the group visits Sam Sand Dunes for a camel ride and sunset cultural show. Dinner is served at a heritage desert camp before returning to the train.

Day 6: Jodhpur – Royal Blue City

In Jodhpur, the highlight is the Mehrangarh Fort. From its ramparts, you get a sweeping view of the blue-painted city below. Lunch is served at a royal palace, followed by optional shopping.

Day 7: Bharatpur and Agra

The train reaches Bharatpur early. Guests visit Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary for a short birdwatching tour. Next, it heads to Agra. After lunch, you visit the Taj Mahal and return to the train for a farewell dinner.

Day 8: Return to Delhi

The train returns to Delhi in the early hours. After breakfast, staff help with checkout and transfer arrangements.

Service Quality and Hospitality

Personal Butlers and Prompt Service

Each coach has its own khidmatgar available 24/7. Their job is to anticipate needs—whether it’s bringing tea or arranging wake-up calls. The staff is well-trained and speaks fluent English. This level of service is rare, even among luxury hotels.

Safety and Cleanliness

The train is well-maintained, and hygiene standards are high. Cabins are cleaned twice daily. Security is tight, with guards posted at each coach and baggage checks at boarding.

Mid-Trip Feel: What Sets It Apart?

By the middle of the journey, guests start to relax more deeply. The scheduled pace becomes familiar. Unlike hotel-hopping, there’s no need to pack or move. Everything you need travels with you. India Luxury Tours often focus on minimizing stress, and this train does that beautifully.

Each day brings a new city, but the sense of consistency on board keeps you grounded. The train becomes a home base—familiar and dependable, yet mobile.

Who Should Ride the Palace on Wheels?

This journey suits travelers who value comfort, heritage, and planned activities. It’s ideal for couples, history buffs, retired professionals, and anyone interested in a guided and immersive trip through North India.

The schedule may feel rigid for those used to self-guided travel, but for many, that’s the appeal. You get to see more without handling logistics.

Final Thoughts

The Palace on Wheels is more than a train—it’s a heritage experience wrapped in comfort and tradition. With attentive staff, curated sightseeing, and a royal setting, this ride offers a unique way to see Rajasthan and Agra.

From the welcome ceremony to the farewell dinner, every detail is well planned. You don’t just see historic India—you live it for a week. For travelers seeking India Luxury Tours that combine culture, comfort, and efficiency, the Palace on Wheels train remains one of the most rewarding options.