There are few travel experiences as evocative of royal India as the Palace on Wheels. For travelers seeking a regal yet comfortable way to explore historic Rajasthan and the iconic landmarks of North India, the Palace on Wheels route is nothing short of magical. This luxury train journey, operating under the banner of The Luxury Trains of India, weaves together culture, heritage, nature, and romance over an unforgettable 7-night, 8-day itinerary.
Setting Out: From Delhi to Jaipur
The Palace on Wheels route begins in New Delhi, where guests board the train at Safdarjung Railway Station. The welcome is fittingly royal — red carpet, garlands, shehnai music, and a traditional greeting prepare you for the journey ahead. As the train departs at dusk, you settle into your beautifully designed cabin, ready for a week of majestic exploration.
On Day 2, you arrive in Jaipur, famously called the “Pink City.” The itinerary here is a perfect mix of architecture and tradition. You visit the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and the City Palace. For a truly royal moment, lunch is served near the Amber Fort, followed by an elephant ride and a tour of the fort itself. As the sun sets, you return to the train, savor dinner on board, and depart for your next destination.
Into the Wild: Ranthambore & Chittorgarh
On Day 3, the train reaches Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to Ranthambore National Park. This is a highlight for wildlife lovers: early-morning safaris might bring glimpses of the majestic Royal Bengal tiger amid the rugged forest and ruins.
Later in the day, the journey continues to Chittorgarh, where a visit to the Chittorgarh Fort awaits. This giant fortification, steeped in Rajput valor and history, dominates the skyline. In the evening, the Light & Sound Show at the fort narrates timeless legends of sacrifice and courage.
Lakes and Legends: Udaipur
Day 4 brings you to Udaipur — the “City of Lakes” and arguably one of the most romantic stops on the Palace on Wheels route. You explore the City Palace, stroll through Saheliyon Ki Bari, and enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola. The views of palaces from the water, especially during evening light, feel straight out of a painting. After a leisurely day, you return to the train for dinner or depart for Jaisalmer under the stars.
Desert Dreams: Jaisalmer
By Day 5, you’ve reached Jaisalmer, the Golden City rising from the Thar Desert. Your day is filled with visits to the formidable Jaisalmer Fort, intricate havelis, and the tranquil Gadsisar Lake. The real magic, however, lies in the evening — you head to the Sam Sand Dunes for a camel ride, watch the sunset over desert sands, and enjoy a cultural performance under the vast desert sky, before dining in a heritage-style desert camp.
The Blue City: Jodhpur
On Day 6, the train arrives at Jodhpur, often called the “Blue City” for its blue-painted houses clustered around the Mehrangarh Fort. You explore this magnificent fort, discover its palatial chambers, and visit the peaceful white marble cenotaph Jaswant Thada. Lunch is arranged in a luxury hotel, after which you can also browse local bazaars for handicrafts, textiles, and more. Later, you board the train for the next leg of the journey.
Birds and Timeless Love: Bharatpur & Agra
Day 7 is especially unique: the Palace on Wheels route takes you to Bharatpur, home to the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a world-renowned bird sanctuary. With an early-morning visit, birdwatchers can spot indigenous and migratory species in a peaceful, protected setting.
Later the same day, you travel to Agra, where the highlight is the Taj Mahal, a monument of eternal love. You also visit the Agra Fort, followed by lunch at a five-star hotel and some shopping for exquisite marble inlay work and handicrafts. In the evening, you return to the train, share a final dinner onboard, and bid farewell to this majestic journey.
Grand Finale: Back to Delhi
On Day 8, the Palace on Wheels returns to Delhi, pulling into Safdarjung Railway Station in the early hours. Guests enjoy one last breakfast onboard before disembarking with memories that are as opulent as the train itself.
What Makes the Palace on Wheels Route Special
- Royal Heritage on Rails: The entire experience — from the coach interiors to the personal butler service — is designed to channel the feeling of being royalty. The train’s legacy and attention to detail reflect the palatial grandeur of Indian princely states.
- Diverse Destinations: The route covers a brilliant mix: heritage cities (Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer), wildlife (Ranthambore), nature (Keoladeo National Park), and iconic monuments (Taj Mahal). This makes the journey appealing to culture lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Seamless Travel: Since the train handles accommodations, meals, and sightseeing (including transportation and guided tours), guests don’t have to worry about logistics. Everything is curated.
- Luxurious Onboard Facilities: Onboard, the Palace on Wheels offers fine dining (two restaurants), a lounge bar, spa services, and beautifully appointed cabins — all combining comfort and heritage.
- Memorable Experiences: From elephant rides at Amber Fort to epic camel safaris in the desert, boat rides in Udaipur, and the sunset at Jaisalmer’s dunes — every day brings something magical.
Ideal Travelers for This Route
- Luxury Travelers & Honeymooners: Those who want a regal, comfortable way to explore Rajasthan and Agra.
- Cultural Enthusiasts: People who appreciate architectural marvels, royal history, and cultural performances.
- Wildlife Lovers: Especially for the Ranthambore reserve and birdwatching in Bharatpur.
- Slow Travelers: Because the journey is not just about destinations, but the experience of moving through them in style.
Practical Tips for the Palace on Wheels Route
- Book in Advance: Since it’s a luxury train with limited capacity, bookings should be made well before travel.
- Best Season: The train typically runs between September and April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for excursions.
- Packing Suggestions: Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing, a few smart-casual outfits for on-board dinner, sunscreen, and a hat for desert days.
- Health & Comfort: Be prepared for early mornings (especially for safaris and birdwatching) and varying climates — from desert heat to cooler nights.
- Photography: There are tons of great photo ops — historic forts, desert dunes, wildlife, palaces — so make sure your camera or phone is ready.
Why the Palace on Wheels Still Captivates
The Palace on Wheels route isn’t just a trip — it’s a carefully choreographed experience that brings alive India’s royal and cultural legacy in a way few other travel options can. It lets you witness history, embrace nature, and experience opulence in one sweeping journey. Drawing inspiration from The Luxury Trains of India, this route stands as a shining example of heritage travel done right.
For travelers looking to combine comfort, culture, and a touch of fantasy, riding the Palace on Wheels is like living a page out of an old royal chronicle — all while gliding through some of India’s most timeless landscapes.
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