Palace on Wheels was launched as India's first luxury tourist train on 26th January, 1982 by the Indian Railways & Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation. It recreates a bygone era of indulgence and grace. With its ethnic interior decor, gracious hospitality and a tastefully crafted journey that chugs along former Rajput princedoms & Taj Mahal in Agra, this Indian luxury train journey is ride of a lifetime. Inspired by the personal carriages used by the former Maharajas, Nizams and Viceroys, the Palace on Wheels journey is one of the most authentic way to explore and rediscover royal Rajasthan for the descerning traveler. Rajasthan is home to some of the most resplendent fortresses, spectacular palaces and havelis along with rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife. Experience the royal hues and vibrant culture of Rajasthan along with a visit to World Heritage Site, Taj Mahal in Agra as you travel aboard the Palace on Wheels India's most revered luxury train.
The train with its quaint decor, state of the art amenities and a seamless blend of the traditional Rajputana and contemporary panache brings to you a journey unlike any before. Each moment of the journey is suffused with the romance of endearing experience through the most colorful terrains of Rajasthan. A total of 14 guest carriages can accommodate upto 88 guests in their tastefully appointed interiors. Restaurant, bar and lounge are available to add to the experience of a unique rail journey in India. The original Palace on Wheels consisted of the personal carriages of the erstwhile rulers of India, but the refurbished cabins of the train include the replicas of the original carriages that are technologically advanced. 14 fully air-conditioned deluxe saloons, each a combination of 4 twin bedded chambers with channel music, intercom, attached toilets, running hot and cold water, shower, wall to wall carpeting and other amenities. The furniture with its inlaid motifs has been specially created for the Palace on Wheels.The cabins have been christened after the erstwhile princely states of Rajasthan.
The train includes two restaurants - 'The Maharaja' and 'The Maharani' each with ethnic Rajasthani ambience possesses stylish decors. The restaurants have a seating arrangement in groups of twos and fours. The guests aboard can savour sumptuous food of Indian (especially Marwari) and other popular world cuisine (such as Continental and European). These restaurants also have in- house bars, serving a variety of both, alcoholic and non- alcoholic beverages of both Indian and International brands. The Sitting Lounge of the Palace on Wheels is the perfect place to forget your tiredness of the day's sightseeing. Just sit back, relax and admire the comfortable ambiance. You can also have a little chit-chat session with your fellow passengers. A rejuvenating spa is the recent addition to the train. This dedicated spa car offers a variety of treatments, massages and therapies to its guests. After a tiring day of sightseeing, you can relax your mind, body and soul. The very décor of the spa oozes out a feel of relaxation. Over the years, the train has been refurbished many a times to accommodate technological advancements so that a comfortable tour experience can be offered to the tourists.