Best Luxury Trains in India: Palace on Wheels, Golden Chariot, and More
When it comes to luxury train journeys, opulent rail travel that combines royal heritage with modern comfort. Also known as palace-on-wheels experiences, these trains aren’t just transportation—they’re moving five-star hotels that roll through India’s most iconic landscapes. If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping chai in a vintage carriage while the Aravalli Hills blur past your window, you’re not alone. India’s luxury trains are some of the most talked-about travel experiences in the world, and for good reason.
At the top of the list is the Palace on Wheels, a royal train that re-creates the grandeur of India’s princely era, with hand-painted ceilings, marble bathrooms, and private butlers. It runs through Rajasthan, stopping at Jaipur’s Amber Fort, Jaisalmer’s golden desert, and Udaipur’s lake palaces—places you can’t reach by car without missing the magic. Then there’s the Golden Chariot, a South Indian rival that glides from Bengaluru to Mysore, with stops at Hampi’s ancient ruins and the coastal temples of Srirangapatna. Both trains serve multi-course meals cooked by chefs trained in royal kitchens, and every cabin has air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and curated local art. These aren’t tourist trains—they’re cultural expeditions wrapped in velvet curtains and polished brass.
What sets these journeys apart isn’t just the service—it’s the access. On the Palace on Wheels, you get private tours of palaces that aren’t open to the public. On the Golden Chariot, you’re welcomed by local musicians and dancers who perform just for you. Even the dining cars feel like private banquets, with silver service and wines selected to match each region’s flavors. You won’t find this kind of attention on the Orient Express or any other luxury rail line outside India. And while some travelers wonder if jeans are okay on board, the real question is: why would you want to wear anything else when you’re sleeping in a room that looks like a Maharaja’s bedroom?
These trains aren’t for everyone. They’re expensive, they’re booked months ahead, and they’re not about ticking off sights—they’re about soaking them in. But if you’ve ever wanted to travel like royalty without the crowds, the noise, or the hassle, this is your chance. Below, you’ll find real stories, packing tips, and comparisons that show exactly how these journeys stack up—and why they’re still the most unforgettable way to see India.
