Which Luxury Train Tour in India is Right for You?
Choosing a luxury train tour in India can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but with several world-class options, it's important to select the one that best fits your travel desires. Here’s a comparison of three of the most famous luxury trains—the Palace on Wheels, the Golden Chariot, and the Royal Rajasthan—to help you decide which journey is right for you.
The Palace on Wheels: The Original Royal Journey
The Palace on Wheels is an iconic eight-day, seven-night tour that offers a classic exploration of India's Golden Triangle and the vibrant state of Rajasthan.
- Route Highlights: The journey starts and ends in New Delhi and takes you to some of the most historic cities in Rajasthan. Key stops include the Pink City of Jaipur, the Ranthambore National Park for a wildlife safari, the Lake City of Udaipur, the desert stronghold of Jaisalmer, and the Blue City of Jodhpur. The tour culminates with a visit to the Keoladeo Ghana National Park and the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra.
- Best For: Travelers seeking a comprehensive and traditional Rajasthani experience, combining historical palaces, forts, wildlife, and desert landscapes.
For more information, visit the Palace on Wheels Tour Package.
The Golden Chariot: The Splendor of South India
The Golden Chariot offers an entirely different experience, focusing on the cultural and natural wonders of South India. This eight-day journey is perfect for those who want to explore beyond the typical Northern circuits.
- Route Highlights: The tour typically begins in Bangalore and explores destinations like Mysore (with its grand palace), the wildlife sanctuaries of Kabini or Bandipur, and the ancient temple towns of Hassan and Badami. A major highlight is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hampi and Pattadakal. The journey also includes a stop in Goa before returning to Bangalore.
- Best For: History buffs and nature lovers who want to explore South India's rich heritage, ancient ruins, and stunning natural beauty, including a jungle safari.
You can find details on the Golden Chariot Tour Package.
The Royal Rajasthan: A Unique Spin on the Royal Experience
Often compared to the Palace on Wheels, the Royal Rajasthan tour package also offers a journey through the state, but with a different itinerary that includes a visit to a unique religious site.
- Route Highlights: This seven-day tour begins in New Delhi and features stops in Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, and Jaipur, hitting many of the same highlights as other Rajasthan tours. However, it distinguishes itself with stops at the Khajuraho temples and the sacred city of Varanasi for the evening Maha Aarti ceremony, before concluding in Agra with a visit to the Taj Mahal.
- Best For: Travelers who want a Rajasthan experience but also wish to include visits to other significant cultural and spiritual sites in India, such as the famous temples of Khajuraho and Varanasi.
For more on this itinerary, check out the {{LINK:wildlife_package:Royal Rajasthan Tour Package}}.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Palace on Wheels is often considered the most iconic and luxurious train in India, offering royal interiors, exceptional service, and a classic Rajasthan itinerary.
The Palace on Wheels focuses on North India—mainly Rajasthan and the Taj Mahal—while the Golden Chariot explores the cultural and natural beauty of South India, including Hampi, Mysore, and Goa.
Yes, both cover Rajasthan, but the Royal Rajasthan includes unique cultural and spiritual destinations like Khajuraho and Varanasi, making it ideal for travelers seeking diversity beyond palaces and forts.
Each tour typically lasts 7 to 8 days, offering an all-inclusive experience with onboard accommodation, meals, guided excursions, and cultural entertainment.
The Golden Chariot is ideal for travelers interested in South Indian heritage, temple architecture, lush landscapes, and offbeat destinations away from the typical Golden Triangle route.