One of India’s most iconic luxury trains is set to create history this summer. Palace on Wheels will operate in May for the first time in its 45-year history, marking a major shift in the train’s traditional seasonal schedule.

According to officials from North Western Railway, the decision was taken due to unusually strong tourist demand despite Rajasthan’s intense summer season.

The luxury heritage train, known worldwide for its royal interiors and premium travel experience, usually operates only between September and April. However, this year, railway authorities and tourism officials have approved a special summer departure beginning May 20, 2026.

First-Ever May Journey in Palace on Wheels History

Palace on Wheels first began operations on January 26, 1982, and has since become one of the most prestigious luxury trains in the world.

Traditionally, services were suspended during May and June because:

• Rajasthan experiences extreme heat during these months
• Temperatures often cross 42°C
• Tourist arrivals generally decline sharply

However, railway officials say this year witnessed exceptional demand from both domestic and international travelers, prompting the launch of the special summer service.

Palace on Wheels Special Tour Schedule

The upcoming luxury journey will operate from:

• May 20 to May 25, 2026

The train will depart from Safdarjung Railway Station and cover approximately 2,610 kilometers during the six-day tour.

Key Route and Destinations

The train will travel through several historic and tourist destinations, including:

• Durgapura
• Sawai Madhopur
• Chittorgarh
• Udaipur
• Jaisalmer
• Bikaner

The route is designed to showcase:

• Rajasthan’s royal heritage
• Historic forts and palaces
• Desert landscapes
• Traditional culture and hospitality

Operated Under Bharat Gaurav Train Policy

Railway officials confirmed that the special service is being operated under Indian Railways’s Bharat Gaurav Train Policy.

The special train has been assigned:

• Train Number: 00290

The initiative aims to promote heritage tourism and luxury rail travel in India.

Joint Initiative of RTDC and Indian Railways

Palace on Wheels is jointly operated by:

• Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation
• Indian Railways

The train is widely regarded as:

• India’s first luxury heritage train
• One of the world’s most luxurious rail experiences

Over the decades, it has attracted celebrities, foreign tourists, and luxury travel enthusiasts from around the globe.

Royal Luxury Experience Inside the Train

The train will reportedly consist of 22 coaches equipped with premium amenities.

Coach Composition Includes

• 6 WPCT-1 saloon coaches
• 7 WPCT-2 saloon coaches
• 1 super deluxe saloon coach
• 2 restaurant-cum-bar coaches
• Kitchen coaches
• Staff coaches
• Service coaches
• Spa coach

The interiors are designed to recreate the atmosphere of royal Rajasthan.

Coaches Named After Rajasthan’s Historic Royal States

One of the most unique features of Palace on Wheels is that its luxury coaches are named after former princely states of Rajasthan.

Royal-Themed Coach Names Include

• Alwar
• Bharatpur
• Bikaner
• Bundi
• Dholpur
• Dungarpur
• Jaisalmer
• Jaipur
• Jhalawar
• Jodhpur
• Kishangarh
• Kota
• Sirohi
• Udaipur

These names and themes help create an authentic royal experience for passengers.

Rajasthan Tourism Expected to Benefit

Tourism experts believe the special May operation could boost:

• Summer tourism
• Luxury travel bookings
• International tourist interest
• Rajasthan heritage promotion

Officials also say the success of this summer run may influence future decisions regarding off-season luxury train operations.

How to Book Tickets

Passengers interested in the special journey can check bookings and package details through official railway tourism channels and authorized luxury train booking platforms.

Due to limited seats and growing demand, experts expect bookings to fill quickly for this rare summer edition of the iconic royal train.