Best Train Cities in India: Luxury Journeys and Heritage Routes
When you think of luxury train journeys, opulent rail travel that blends royal history with modern comfort. Also known as palace trains, these aren’t just ways to get from point A to B—they’re experiences that move you through India’s most iconic landscapes while you sleep in silk-lined cabins and dine on curated meals. The best train cities in India aren’t just stops on a route—they’re the heartbeats of the journey. Places like Delhi, the historic capital where royal trains begin their journeys, Agra, home to the Taj Mahal and the classic endpoint of the Golden Triangle, and Jaipur, the Pink City with its palaces and forts that feel like they were built for a train ride aren’t just destinations—they’re the reason these trains exist.
The Palace on Wheels isn’t just the most luxurious train in the world—it’s a moving museum that connects these cities in a way no car or plane can. You don’t just visit Agra—you arrive at its gates after a night under crystal chandeliers. You don’t just see Jaipur’s Amber Fort—you step off the train into a royal welcome. These cities aren’t chosen randomly. They’re the backbone of a route designed for travelers who want culture, not just sightseeing. The Golden Triangle—Delhi, Agra, Jaipur—is the most famous circuit, but it’s not the only one. Other routes like the Golden Chariot weave through South India’s temples and palaces, proving luxury trains aren’t just a North Indian thing. What makes these cities special isn’t just their landmarks—it’s how they’re linked by tracks that feel like they’ve been laid for royalty. And yes, you can still ride them today, with real tickets, real cabins, and real stories from staff who’ve been serving tea on these routes for decades.
If you’ve ever wondered why people book these trains months in advance, it’s because they’re not just transport. They’re time machines. You’re not just traveling across India—you’re traveling back into a world where rail travel was an art form. The cities you stop in don’t just have history—they have memories written into their walls, their streets, their train platforms. And the trains? They’re the only way to experience it all without rushing. Below, you’ll find real stories from travelers who’ve taken these routes, tips on what to pack, and why some of the best views happen when you’re not even looking out the window.
