Palace on Wheels Crowned No.1 in Condé Nast Luxury Train Survey

A Royal Legacy on Rails

Launched in 1982, the Palace on Wheels was inspired by the private carriages of India’s former maharajas. It was a pioneering initiative by Indian Railways and the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation to offer a grand, rolling showcase of Rajasthan’s palaces, forts, and cultural treasures. Traversing Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra, this 7-night, 8-day itinerary weaves a path through India’s regal past 

Why It’s No.1

1. Stunning Design & Heritage Décor

Condé Nast praised the intricate Indian textiles, frescoed ceilings, mahogany paneling, and plush furnishings that evoke Rajasthan’s royal opulence. Each of its 14 coaches is named after Rajasthan’s princely states, with interiors reflecting the grandeur of Alwar, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur 

2. Gourmet Dining Experience

The train’s two onboard restaurants—Maharaja and Maharani—serve authentic Rajasthani delicacies and international fare in elegant surroundings. Seasonal menus emphasize rich local flavors like ghee, lentils, jowar, bajra, and tandoori specialities 

3. World-Class Amenities

Palace on Wheels offers wellness facilities including a spa and gym, plus services like laundry, banking, and medical assistance. Travelers also enjoy 24/7 butler service, temperature-controlled cabins, and panoramic windows.

4. Curated Royal Experiences

Stops include iconic places such as Jaipur’s Amer Fort, the blue city of Jodhpur, golden dunes of Jaisalmer, romantic Udaipur, Bagh—or sighting Bengal tigers at Ranthambore via Bharatpur safaris, concluding with the timeless Taj Mahal at Agra

Awards & Global Recognition

• #1 Luxury Train as per Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice 2024Winner of PATA Gold Award for Heritage & Culture in 1987

• Voted fourth-best luxury train globally 

• Recognized as Best in Asia in 2009 

• Featured in Cable TV and National Geographic programs

The 2024 Reader’s Choice Survey

In 2024, travelers worldwide chose Palace on Wheels as the best train journey experience . It topped categories like ambiance, service quality, décor, cuisine, and overall journey satisfaction. Condé Nast described it as “a railroad mansion” steeped in elegance 

What Travelers Love

From redditors:

“Palace on Wheels India has made its name in the world of luxurious travel,” one traveler shared. 

Another enthused:

“If you want to relish royalty, wilderness and spirituality… this journey is perfect.”

Why It Still Excels

Despite newer luxury trains, Palace on Wheels continues to lead thanks to its:

• Timeless theme rooted in royal heritage

• Commitment to refinement, as seen in its recent 2017 redesign

• Personalized hospitality—with cabin attendants, butlers, and curated excursions

• Balanced route—covering forts, cultural hubs, wildlife, and Mughal marvels

Fare & Booking

Starting around US $964/night (~₹80,000), fares vary based on cabin class and season. Prices range up to $3,465/night for top suites. The fare includes accommodation, meals, excursions, entrance fees, on-board services, and taxes.

The Royal Verdict

Being ranked #1 by Condé Nast Traveler is more than an award—it’s a mark of excellence. From its historical legacy to modern comforts and culinary delights, Palace on Wheels offers a singular travel experience combining luxury, culture, and history.

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing India in regal fashion, this train redefines what it means to journey like royalty.

Explore more about the train, routes, and bookings at [Orient Rail Journeys] or trust official sources like RTDC and Indian Railways for authentic travel planning.

TLDR Summary

• Rank: Voted #1 luxury train globally in Condé Nast Traveler 2024 

• Roots: Inspired by maharajas’ carriages since 1982

• Highlights: Regal interiors, gourmet dining, spa, guided forts and palace tours

• Awards: PATA Gold, global travel recognitions

• Fares: US $964–$3,465 per night, all-inclusive

Ready to explore India like royalty? Let me know if you'd like help planning a trip, comparing cabins, or checking travel dates!

These are the five different ways that you can enjoy Palace on Wheels. To be frank, there are several other ways of making your Palace on Wheels journey unique and enjoyable.

India’s luxury trains, such as the Palace on Wheels, Maharajas' Express, Deccan Odyssey, and Golden Chariot, offer a royal travel experience with world-class amenities.