India's Most Celebrated
Luxury Train Since 1982
Four decades of royal train heritage, running since 1982.
The Legend
Born from the Carriages of Rajputana's Royalty
The Palace on Wheels was not designed from scratch — it was born from history. When India's princely states were integrated into the republic, the personal train saloons of Rajputana's maharajas became state property. In 1982, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation partnered with Indian Railways to transform these royal carriages into a cohesive luxury train experience.
Each of the 14 guest coaches is named after a former princely state of Rajasthan — Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bundi, Dungarpur, and more — and its interiors reflect the distinctive art, textile traditions, and architectural motifs of that royal house. To travel aboard the Palace on Wheels is to inhabit, for eight days, the world of the maharajas.
Today, the train is recognized by Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, and numerous international travel awards as one of the world's great rail journeys — not merely for its destinations, but for the experience of the journey itself.
Est. 1,982
Year of First Journey
14
Named Guest Coaches
4,466km
Route Distance
30+
Countries Represented
The Palace on Wheels Through History
The Royal Journey Begins
The Palace on Wheels commenced operations on 26th January 1982 — India's Republic Day — as a joint initiative of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Indian Railways. The original rolling stock comprised saloons from the former ruling princes of Rajputana, each carriage a relic of a vanished royal world.
First Major Refurbishment
After nearly a decade of operation, the train underwent its first comprehensive refurbishment. New coaches replaced the aging original saloons, while retaining the aesthetic language of the former princely carriages — each named after a former Rajputana state.
International Recognition
The Palace on Wheels received its first international award from Condé Nast Traveler USA, recognizing it among the world's greatest train journeys. This brought a wave of international bookings from Europe, Australia, and the Americas.
Heritage-Grade Restoration
A second major restoration was undertaken, upgrading all cabin interiors to contemporary luxury standards while maintaining the heritage aesthetic. The dining cars were redesigned, the Sheesh Mahal lounge refurbished, and the onboard spa introduced.
Continues to Lead
Today, more than four decades after its inaugural journey, the Palace on Wheels remains India's most celebrated luxury train. It continues to welcome guests from over 30 countries, offering the same blend of royal heritage, Rajasthani culture, and modern comfort that defined the original vision.
Palace on Wheels vs. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels vs. Maharajas' Express
Three great trains, three different experiences. Here's how they compare — so you can choose the right journey for you.
| Criterion | Palace on Wheels | Royal Rajasthan on Wheels | Maharajas' Express |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operator | RTDC + Indian Railways | RTDC + Indian Railways | IRCTC |
| Since | 1982 | 2009 | 2010 |
| Duration | 7 Nights / 8 Days | 7 Nights / 8 Days | 4–8 Nights |
| Departures | Weekly (Wednesday) | Weekly (Tuesday) | Less frequent |
| Price Range | Mid–High | Mid–High | Premium–Ultra Premium |
| Highlights | Original royal train; UNESCO-site heavy; cultural depth; most iconic | Similar route; adds Khajuraho & Varanasi; slightly newer rolling stock | Most luxurious interiors; higher price; fewer departures; multiple routes |
| Best For | Best Heritage Value | Best for North India Extension | Best Pure Luxury |
Common Questions About the Train
The Palace on Wheels commenced operations on 26th January 1982 — India's Republic Day — as a joint initiative of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Indian Railways, using rolling stock adapted from the former ruling princes of Rajputana.
Start Your Journey
The Palace on Wheels Awaits.
When Will You Board?
2026 and 2027 departures are available. Demand from international travelers peaks 6 to 9 months before each departure. Secure your cabin now.