Palace On Wheels to Start Operations in May For the First Time in its 45-year History

For the first time in its 45-year history, Rajasthan's famous luxury train, jointly operated by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways, the Palace on Wheels, will operate during May. The train, which was launched on January 26, 1982, is known as India's first luxury heritage train and is

considered one of the world's leading royal tourist trains.

Palace on Wheels Operations in May, 2026

Usually, the Palace on Wheels runs only between September and April because Rajasthan experiences extremely high temperatures during May. However, this year the train will run due to strong demand from passengers. Amit Sudarshan, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Western Railway, confirmed that this will be the first time the luxury train is operating in May.

Passengers' Demand

Officials said Rajasthan's summer temperatures often cross 42 degrees Celsius, which usually keeps tourists away during this period. But this time, a major nationalised bank has booked the entire train for a private journey. Railway officials said this shows confidence in India's tourism and travel sector despite global economic uncertainties.

Palace on Wheels' Six-Day Tour

The Palace on Wheels will operate a special six-day tour from May 20 to May 25. The train will start from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station and travel around 2,610 kilometres during the journey. It will cover several important tourist destinations, including Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Sawai Madhopur, and other locations across Rajasthan.

Palace on Wheels Features

According to railway officials, the train will run as Train No. 00290 under Indian Railways' Bharat Gaurav Train Policy. The luxury train will have 22 coaches, including deluxe saloons, restaurant-cum-bar coaches, kitchen cars, spa cars, and staff coaches. The Palace on Wheels is famous for its royal interiors and heritage experience. Its 14 main coaches are named after former princely states of Rajasthan, such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer, reflecting the rich culture and history of the state.