Orient Express dress code: What to wear on luxury trains in India and beyond
When people talk about the Orient Express, a legendary luxury train service that once connected Europe to the East. Also known as the Golden Arrow, it’s become a symbol of old-world elegance—though today, few still ride the original route. In India, the real heir to that legacy is the Palace on Wheels, a royal-style train that rolls through Rajasthan’s palaces, forts, and deserts. And yes, the dress code matters—not because it’s strict, but because it shapes the whole experience.
You don’t need a tuxedo on the Palace on Wheels, but showing up in flip-flops and a tank top will make you stand out for the wrong reasons. Most guests dress smart-casual for dinner: collared shirts, blouses, nice trousers or dresses. Men often skip the tie, but a jacket on cooler evenings isn’t unusual. Women wear flowy fabrics, light saris, or elegant separates. The train’s vibe is relaxed luxury—think heritage meets comfort. You’re not going to a Broadway show; you’re sipping chai on a moving palace, watching the sun set over Jaipur’s pink walls. The luxury train journeys, high-end rail experiences that blend history, service, and exclusivity in India are designed to feel special, not stiff. That’s why you’ll see guests swapping stories in linen pants and silk kurtas, not suits and heels.
What you wear also depends on where you’re going. If you’re visiting a temple or royal palace during a shore excursion, modest clothing is expected—covered shoulders, no shorts. Bring a light shawl or scarf; it’s not just polite, it’s practical. The heat during the day and the cool nights mean layering isn’t optional. And while the train has air conditioning, the open-air decks and heritage interiors mean you’ll want fabrics that breathe. The train travel etiquette, unwritten rules of conduct on premium rail journeys in India is less about rules and more about respect—for the space, the staff, and the culture you’re passing through.
Forget the Hollywood version of the Orient Express—no one’s wearing diamonds to dinner on the Palace on Wheels. But there’s a quiet pride in dressing well. It’s not about showing off. It’s about matching the rhythm of the journey. The same way you’d pack sunscreen for Goa or a warm jacket for the Himalayas, you pack clothes that honor the experience. You’ll find yourself in the dining car, sharing a meal with travelers from Australia, Germany, and Delhi—all dressed just right. That’s the magic. It’s not about the label on your shirt. It’s about feeling part of something timeless.
Below, you’ll find real stories and tips from people who’ve ridden India’s most luxurious trains—what they packed, what they wished they’d known, and how to avoid the common mistakes. Whether you’re planning your first luxury rail trip or just curious how it all works, these posts give you the unfiltered truth.
