Pearl Anniversary of the Golden Legend

On 26th of January 2012, Palace on Wheels will complete its 30 years of legendary run. Launched on January 26, 1982, Palace on Wheels was an initiative to showcase the royal heritage of India to tourists from overseas; it was the first luxury train to be introduced in India.

A brainchild of Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC), this Indian luxury train begun its journey as a joint venture between the RTDC and the Indian Railways. The 168 hours journey all-inclusive journey costing US $ 3150 per person starts and concludes in New Delhi.

The week long itinerary of Palace on Wheels includes tours to Jaipur, Ranthambore, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra. All meals are complimentary and cost includes off train excursions, guides, and complimentary welcome kit which include a royal Rajasthani turban.

Palace on Wheels was originally composed of the refurbished personal carriages of erstwhile maharajas of India and ran on narrow gauge. The train travelled across destinations in Rajasthan offering guests a mesmerizing glimpse of the Rajput warrior history, desert castles and vibrant culture.

The success story of Palace on Wheels, its craze amongst overseas tourists and connoisseurs of luxury traveling and the huge demand for this kind of elegant train traveling led to introduction of similar luxury trains in India over the years.