Palace on Wheels is the last name in the luxury on the go. This special train is equipped with all the services and amenities that are imaginable. The train mixes traditional with the modern. The art decor speaks of the regal past of the royal Rajasthan while the state-of-the-art amenities are marked by modern affluence and exuberance. Carved furniture, splendid paintings and elegant handicrafts are something that will transport you in the splendid past of Rajasthan. The costume of the attendant staff and period furnishings make up the traditional ambiance.

Since its inception, the facilities on board the Palace on Wheels have enabled the guest to travel in utmost comfort and pampering. Later, in mid nineties, the Palace on Wheels carriages were replaced with modern replicas of the original carriages which were equipped with state of the art amenities. These upgraded amenities on board the train have been detrimental in adding to the comfort and world class experience on board the Palace on Wheels train. The details of the facilities on board the Palace on Wheels are mentioned below for your kind perusal.

Whereas the history of luxury train traveling in the world begins with the legendary Orient Express of the West, in India the history of luxury rail journeys and Palace on Wheels - a legend in itself - are inseparably intertwined. Palace on Wheels chugged along for its first voyage on 26th of January, 1982.

Taking its cue from the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation urged the Indian Railways to launch the Palace on Wheels train which was to be composed of the actual carriages used by various Maharajas and British Viceroys of India. Designed to suit the personal tastes and splendor of various princes who used to rule various kingdoms in India, these carriages were equipped with rich tapestries and lavish amenities. The interior décor of these carriages had a traditional as well as regional tinge to them and radiated the culture and colors of the region which the prince used to rule.

Since these carriages used by erstwhile state heads and princes were way too opulent and expensive to maintain, the Indian Railways has shunted them after India got her independence in 1947 as not viable for normal passenger service. Due to the effort of RTDC later in 1982, Palace on Wheels was launched to promote tourism in the vibrant state of Rajasthan.

Tastefully crafted itinerary along with gracious interiors and traditional hospitality ensured that Palace on Wheels journey soon became the talk of the luxury traveling circuits around the world. This award winning train is one of the most revered luxury trains in the world today.

Initially the train used to be hauled by the steam engine and the original carriages used by the royalty were used but later new carriages were introduced so that contemporary facilities could be made available in the train for added luxury and pampering. Besides, there were no comprise regarding the décor of the carriages when are designed to replicate the original coaches.

Palace on Wheels comprises of 14 gracefully appointed coaches with rich furnishings and modern amenities. Facilities include air conditioning, writing desk, direct dial phones and attached bathrooms. There is an array of journeys offered by the train lasting for a week on an average. Besides Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Bikaner, Ranthambore National Park and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan, the train also takes a short detour of Agra making up for a royal golden triangle tour. Welcome aboard for a journey in time to the most colorful destinations in India. Explore and discover the Kaleidoscope of Rajasthan like it was never imagined before!