Rajasthan always charms travelers with its royal palaces, golden deserts, colorful festivals, and warm hospitality. It is a land of kings, queens, forts, and tales of valor. Travelers come here to see history alive in the streets of Jaipur, the lakes of Udaipur, the deserts of Jaisalmer, and the blue lanes of Jodhpur. While many people explore Rajasthan by road, there is one special way to make the journey unforgettable—the Palace on Wheels.
This luxury train is not just a mode of travel. It is an experience where comfort meets history, where every moment feels royal, and where Rajasthan unfolds most elegantly. In this blog, we will take you through everything about a Rajasthan tour with the Palace on Wheels—from the charm of the state to the details of the train, its itinerary, highlights, and tips for making your journey smooth.
The Charm of Rajasthan
Rajasthan is called the “Land of Kings” for a reason. The state is full of grand palaces, mighty forts, and stories of courage. Every city in Rajasthan has a different flavor.
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Jaipur shines with pink palaces and bustling bazaars.
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Jodhpur glows with blue houses and the towering Mehrangarh Fort.
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Udaipur charms with lakes and romantic palaces.
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Jaisalmer surprises with golden deserts and camel safaris.
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Bikaner is known for its temples and spicy snacks.
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Chittorgarh speaks of tales of sacrifice and bravery.
The culture of Rajasthan makes the state even more special. Folk music, puppet shows, colorful dresses, and camel fairs bring life to every corner. Food here is another attraction. Dal baati churma, ghewar, ker sangri, and pyaaz kachori give travelers a unique taste of Rajasthan.
For centuries, kings and queens lived in luxury here. The architecture, art, and traditions reflect their royal lifestyle. Today, travelers can still feel that royalty when they travel on the Palace on Wheels.
Palace on Wheels – A Royal Train Journey
The Palace on Wheels is one of the most famous luxury trains in the world. It started in 1982 and has carried thousands of travelers since then. The idea came from the coaches of kings of Rajasthan, who once traveled in their own private carriages. Those coaches became the inspiration for the Palace on Wheels.
The train has 14 coaches, each named after a former princely state of Rajasthan. The interiors look like palaces, decorated with rich colors, carvings, and traditional designs. Travelers get modern comforts along with a royal feel.
When you step onto the train, attendants greet you with smiles and traditional rituals. The red carpet welcome and music create the start of a royal journey. Every moment on this train feels like traveling back in time to the days of maharajas.
Onboard Experience
The Palace on Wheels is not just about traveling from one city to another. It offers an entire lifestyle onboard. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Cabins
The cabins are cozy and elegant. Each one has air-conditioning, attached bathrooms, and all modern facilities. The décor reflects Rajasthani culture with mirror work, paintings, and traditional motifs.
2. Dining
The train has two restaurants—Maharaja and Maharani. The chefs serve Indian, Rajasthani, Continental, and Chinese food. You can enjoy dal baati churma one night and pasta or grilled dishes the next. The royal décor, soft lighting, and friendly service make dining a memorable part of the journey.
3. Bar and Lounge
There is a lounge bar where travelers relax, talk, and enjoy drinks. The bar has Indian spirits, wines, and cocktails. The soft music and elegant setting give a royal vibe.
4. Spa and Wellness
For relaxation, the train offers spa therapies. After exploring forts and deserts during the day, you can return to a calming massage.
5. Hospitality
The staff on board take care of every small detail. They greet you warmly, help you with luggage, and make you feel at home. The service is personal and attentive.
Every day begins with breakfast on the train, followed by sightseeing in a new city. At night, you return to the comfort of your cabin. It is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Rajasthan Tour Itinerary with Palace on Wheels
The Palace on Wheels takes you through a 7-night, 8-day journey. Let’s look at the day-by-day itinerary:
Day 1: Delhi Departure
Your journey begins at Safdarjung Railway Station in Delhi. The train welcomes you with music, garlands, and traditional rituals. Once you settle in your cabin, the train leaves for the first destination.
Day 2: Jaipur
The “Pink City” greets you with forts, palaces, and lively markets. You visit the Amber Fort, where elephants once carried kings. The City Palace and Jantar Mantar show Jaipur’s royal past and scientific wisdom. In the evening, you enjoy shopping in colorful bazaars.
Day 3: Sawai Madhopur and Chittorgarh
In the morning, you explore Ranthambore National Park in Sawai Madhopur. Here, you may spot tigers, leopards, and deer. By afternoon, the train takes you to Chittorgarh Fort. This fort is full of legends of courage and sacrifice. In the evening, a light and sound show makes history come alive.
Day 4: Udaipur
The “City of Lakes” welcomes you with romance and charm. You visit the City Palace, one of the grandest palaces in India. A boat ride on Lake Pichola lets you see the Lake Palace shining on the water. The markets of Udaipur are perfect for souvenirs.
Day 5: Jaisalmer
Golden sand and havelis make Jaisalmer unique. You walk through the Jaisalmer Fort, built of yellow sandstone. The havelis with fine carvings show the art of the past. In the evening, you enjoy a camel ride on the Sam Sand Dunes. Folk dance and music under the stars add magic to the desert night.
Day 6: Jodhpur
The “Blue City” stands under the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. This fort is one of the most powerful in India. From the top, you see blue houses spreading across the city. You also visit Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph with delicate carvings.
Day 7: Bharatpur and Agra
Early morning, you explore Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur, a paradise for birds. Later, the train takes you to Agra. Here, you visit the Taj Mahal, the symbol of love. You also see the Agra Fort and enjoy shopping for marble art.
Day 8: Return to Delhi
The train returns to Delhi. After breakfast, you bid farewell to the staff and fellow travelers. The royal journey ends, but the memories stay forever.
Highlights of the Journey
The Palace on Wheels combines history, luxury, and adventure. Here are the highlights:
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Red carpet welcome at every station.
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Comfortable cabins with traditional décor.
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Dining in royal restaurants with global and local cuisines.
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Jeep safari at Ranthambore National Park.
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Boat ride in Udaipur’s Lake Pichola.
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Camel ride and cultural evening at Jaisalmer dunes.
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Exploring mighty forts like Amber, Chittorgarh, and Mehrangarh.
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Visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Every day brings a mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation.
Why Choose Palace on Wheels for Rajasthan Tour?
Travelers can explore Rajasthan by car, bus, or flight. But the Palace on Wheels gives something more:
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Royal Feel – The interiors, hospitality, and dining create the feel of a palace.
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Comfort – You do not need to change hotels or pack daily. Your cabin moves with you.
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Complete Tour – In one week, you see the best of Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal.
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Unique Experience – Few trains in the world match its charm. It is a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
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Time-Saving – While you sleep, the train moves to the next city. You wake up ready for exploration.
For honeymoon couples, families, and history lovers, this train is perfect.
Practical Information
Before booking your Palace on Wheels journey, here is some important information:
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Duration: 7 nights / 8 days
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Departure: Every Wednesday from Delhi (September to April)
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Cabins: Deluxe Cabins and Super Deluxe Cabins
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Capacity: Around 82 passengers
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Best Time to Travel: October to March (cool weather)
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Dress Code: Comfortable clothes for day trips, smart casuals for dinner
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Booking: Available through the official Palace on Wheels website and travel agencies
Tips for Travelers
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Book Early – The train has limited seats. Plan and book months in advance.
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Carry Light Clothes – Rajasthan can get hot during the day. Cotton clothes work best.
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Evenings Get Cool – Carry a light jacket, especially for desert evenings.
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Stay Hydrated – Always carry water during sightseeing.
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Respect Traditions – Temples and forts may have dress rules. Follow them.
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Camera Ready – The forts, palaces, and deserts give endless photo moments.
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Enjoy Onboard Time – Do not miss the spa, lounge, and cultural evenings on the train.
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Souvenir Shopping – Buy handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry as memories of Rajasthan.
Conclusion
A journey through Rajasthan is always magical. But when you take that journey on the Palace on Wheels, it becomes truly unforgettable. You do not just see forts, palaces, and deserts. You live the life of royalty, enjoy fine dining, and relax in luxury cabins while Rajasthan passes by your window.
From Jaipur’s palaces to Jaisalmer’s dunes, from Ranthambore’s tigers to Agra’s Taj Mahal, every day brings a new surprise. The Palace on Wheels connects history, culture, and comfort while taking you across the finest tourist attractions in Rajasthan in a way no other journey can.
So, if you dream of a Rajasthan tour that feels royal, elegant, and complete, step aboard the Palace on Wheels. It is not just a train ride. It is an experience of a lifetime.
