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In a landmark move, Rajasthan’s royal ride, Palace on Wheels , will be running in the month of May. The legendary train (needs no introduction) is synonymous with Rajasthan’s luxury vibe. The train traditionally runs between September and April. The travellers pass through royal cities, desert forts and wildlife reserves in a week-long journey. But the train is in the news for breaking its 43-year-old tradition as it will be the first time ever, the luxury train will run in May.


The news was confirmed by Amit Sudarshan, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Western Railway. He confirmed the development to the Indian Express. He said, "Yes, the train will operate in May. This will be the first time it is running during the month. Earlier, services were not scheduled in May due to the heat. However, this time, there has been significant demand, which is why the train will run.”

Reason behind the landmark decision

The main reason behind this landmark decision is that the train recorded a sharp rise in passenger interest. It also secured a special charter booking outside its usual operating calendar and as per reports, the train has seen a 45 percent surge in passengers.

History of the train

The Palace on Wheels was launched in 1982 by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Indian Railways. The train is described as a moving palace and the interiors are jaw-dropping, showcasing the grandeur of Rajput courts. The silk decor, royal motifs and personalised butler service add to the overall experience. Personal attendants inside the train are known as Khidmatgars.

Itinerary


The train follows 7-night, 8-day itinerary:

It starts from New Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station and takes travellers through some royal cities in Rajasthan including,

Jaipur
Sawai Madhopur
Chittorgarh
Udaipur
Jaisalmer
Jodhpur
Bharatpur
Agra

It ends at Delhi and enroute, travellers experience palace visits, folk performances, dune dinners, tiger safaris and sunrise views of the Taj Mahal.

Why the May departure is a news

May being the peak summer month in Rajasthan, the train doesn’t operate during this month. But given the always evolving travel trends, travellers demand and improved facilities, it was decided to change the time.

Luxury trains travel

Luxury trains across the globe are attracting travellers looking for immersive journeys rather than fast-paced itineraries. Rajasthan’s hotels, heritage walks and desert experiences are one of the most attractive experiences. The May departure means travellers are ready to explore other seasons of Rajasthan.

The train features:


Deluxe cabins
Suites
Super deluxe cabins
Presidential suite

What travellers can expect

Personal attendants
Fine dining restaurants
A lounge bar
Guided sightseeing tours
Cultural performances
Luxury transfers and entry tickets included in the itinerary

How to book the Palace on Wheels


Travellers can book directly through the official Rajasthan Tourism portal.

Official booking pages
Select the tour season and departure month
Choose cabin category and occupancy
Submit traveller details
Pay the booking amount online or through authorised operators

Ticket prices

Tariffs vary depending on cabin category, season and occupancy type. The official tariff pages list pricing separately for Indian and international travellers. Deluxe cabins, suites and presidential suites are available at different price points.

Official website has price valid for September 2026 and April 2027


Cancellation policy, as per RTDC guidelines:

10% deduction applies for cancellations made 120–90 days before departure
25% deduction applies between 89–60 days
50% deduction applies between 59–30 days
No refund is available within 29 days of departure
A new chapter for luxury rail travel in India

It's an impressive move which can boost tourism in Rajasthan. It could open the door for year-round luxury tourism built around royal heritage and slow travel.