The Palace On Wheels is a veritable phenomenon on wheels. No comfort or convenience is left unattended within its confines and passengers are steeped in resplendent opulence from the time they step on board. The royal express is a completely air-conditioned caravan that chugs the passengers far back in time and promises them an experience of a lifetime. And if you are not careful, you are sure to soon begin fancying yourself a real life king or queen!

The Palace On Wheels comprises fourteen saloons that are named after fourteen different princely states of Rajasthan. Their names Alwar, Bharatpur, Jaisalmer, Bundi, Dholpur, Bikaner, Kota Sirohi Udaipur, Jaipur, Jhalawar, Jodhpur, Kisangarh and Dungarpur are poetic incantations that reflect the poetry inherent in the people of this state.

The saloons are tastefully decorated and there is a unity in the color schemes throughout the train. Shades of red, rust, golden, orange and ochre yellow predominate and reflect the colors of the mother state. The overall interiors of each saloon are uniquely and luxuriously adorned. The coat of arms of each of the erstwhile princely state is painted on the yellow exteriors of the respective coach. The saloons are couched with luxurious fittings, ornate wall hangings, subdued lighting, antiquely designed rich furniture, chandeliers and every conceivable embellishment.

Every saloon is appointed with four cabins i.e. twin bedded chambers with attached bath and shower. Though usually only two beds are available an additional folding bed can be added to accommodate another person or child. You can either use overhead light, night-light or reading light according to your requirement. There is provision for hot as well as cold water, built in wardrobes, intercom and music. The public address system is used to make important announcements or provide light music. There are in all fifty-two sleeping car compartments in the Palace On Wheels with two side beds each.

A personal attendant or a khidmatgar is assigned to each saloon. These turban-clad, liveried attendants take charge of your requirements at the commencement of the journey by welcoming you and escorting you to your respective coupes. They intimate you of all the facilities available on board the Palace-on-Wheels, and are at your services till for the entire duration of the journey thereafter.

Passengers may avail the services of the barbershop, beauty parlor and laundry on request. There is also the newly introduced facility of a health club for those who should so desire. Though there is a first aid room on board the, in case of an emergency a doctor can be called for at any of the stations. Traveler's cheque(s) are accepted by the bureau de change.

The next most fantastic feature of the Palace On Wheels is its exclusive kitchen and two dining cars that provide the most mouth-watering traditional Indian, continental and Chinese cuisines. Christened the Maharaja and the Maharani, these restaurant cars are appointed with seats in groups of two or four near the windows. A premium quality bar is maintained with a regularly replenished stock of fine scotch, wine, cocktails, soft drinks and any Indian liquor of your choice. Many a connoisseur has applauded the upkeep and selection of wines of the bar!

There are plenty of board games on board the Palace On Wheels to keep children busy. 'The Bazaar' is a souvenir shop that offers a variety of gift items and souvenirs impressed with the logo of the Palace-on-Wheels to take back home. And the well-stocked library is a delight for those who are fond of reading, and never fails to find book lovers ensconced on its sofas. There is also a lounge at the end of every coach and makes for a good meeting point. Passengers often mingle with each other and get talking here.

On the Palace On Wheels, the days are spent sightseeing, the evenings in cultural programs and the nights in the cozy cushioned warmth of the beds. Experienced guides take you on a tour of the cities in the day and mesmerize you with stories and legends of heroic valor of the people of this land. Afternoon meals are partaken in some of the finest hotels of the cities. Night is a welcome and restful experience, and if you can, you must witness the spectacular sunrises and sunsets of the desert.

The Palace On Wheels is undeniably one of the finest theme trains in the world. It encapsulates an entire history and golden era within its magnificently appointed saloons. It also leaves no stone unturned in extending its hospitality to the passengers and ensuring that they get a taste of the true colors of royal state of Rajasthan.