The Palace on Wheels is one of the world's great train journeys — and booking it from abroad is simpler than most travelers expect. This guide walks you through the process step by step, from first enquiry to boarding in New Delhi.
Step 1: Choose Your Departure Date
The Palace on Wheels departs every Wednesday from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi, from approximately October through March. The first step is identifying your preferred travel window. Most international travelers choose:
- **November–December:** Pre-Christmas, pleasant weather, relatively uncrowded
- **January–February:** Peak season, best weather, highest demand
- **March:** Off-peak value, still excellent conditions
Our advice: decide on your dates first, then contact us. Don't wait until you're close to travel — the train fills up 6–9 months in advance, especially for peak dates.
Step 2: Choose Your Cabin Class
Three options: Deluxe, Super Deluxe Suite, Presidential Suite. The Deluxe is the most popular and most available; the Presidential Suite books out first. If you're travelling as a couple and budget allows, the Super Deluxe Suite is the sweet spot.
Step 3: Contact Us to Check Availability
- Your preferred departure date(s)
- Number of travelers and nationality
- Cabin preference
- Any dietary requirements or special requests
We will respond within 2 hours (usually much faster) to confirm availability and provide the current tariff.
Step 4: Make Payment
- International bank transfer (SWIFT/IBAN — we provide bank details)
- Major credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
- PayPal (subject to fees)
We quote in USD, GBP, EUR, or AUD at the prevailing rate. No hidden fees.
Step 5: Arrange Your India Visa
Most nationalities require an India tourist visa. Citizens of the UK, USA, Australia, and most EU countries can apply for an e-Visa online through the official Indian government portal. The e-Visa (for tourism) is straightforward: upload your passport scan, a photograph, and make payment online. Most approvals come within 72 hours.
We can guide you through the e-Visa process and recommend timing your application 2–4 weeks before travel.
Step 6: Fly into New Delhi
The Palace on Wheels departs from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi (not Delhi's main Hazrat Nizamuddin or New Delhi Railway Station). Most international flights arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), which is approximately 30–40 minutes from the station by taxi or ride-share.
We recommend arriving in Delhi the day before your train departure to allow buffer for any travel delays. We can arrange pre-tour accommodation in Delhi if needed.
Step 7: Board the Train
On your departure Wednesday, arrive at Safdarjung Station before the welcome ceremony (usually early evening). Our representative will be there to greet you, assist with luggage, and ensure you're settled into your cabin before the train departs.
That's it. The journey takes care of itself from there.
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