There was a time when the Maharajas and Viceroys of British India travelled only in their custom designed coaches. Once India attained independence these coaches were relegated to the railway sidings. Only in 1981-82 was it decided to revive these vintage coaches and their themes to introduce a heritage train. It was called Palace on Wheels. The aim of giving new life to this train was to offer the discerning travellers, a cultural insight into India through a classic rail travel experience, as it used to be in the past.
In 1990 the promoters introduced a new meter gauge; an air conditioned train with thirteen saloons, two restaurant and kitchen cars, four service cars and one bar cum lounge car. In 1995 the train underwent yet another change and switched to broad gauge. It also gained an additional saloon car and all saloons had interconnecting vestibules. It was completely refurbished in August 2009 with a new décor. A fresh itinerary and cuisine and upgraded services enabled an even more comfortable and pleasurable journey along with the luxury of international standards.
The train chugs out of Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi, on a week long run through Rajasthan.
Tailor-made
