The Journal
From Deluxe to the Presidential Suite: Choosing Your Cabin on the Palace on Wheels
Every cabin is a room in a moving palace
The Palace on Wheels has 42 cabins across 14 air-conditioned coaches, each coach named after a former princely state of Rajputana and dressed in its colours and craft. Every cabin is en-suite, with individual climate control, plush bedding, an electronic safe, internet and the round-the-clock care of your Khidmatgar (personal attendant). There are four classes.
Deluxe cabin
The classic choice and by far the most numerous — 36 Deluxe cabins (around 131 sq ft), spread across twelve coaches named for Rajasthani cities, with twin beds, traditional décor and large picture windows. This is the full Palace on Wheels experience at the most accessible fare.
Super Deluxe cabin
Just three Super Deluxe cabins, in the Bharatpur coach — a similar footprint to the Deluxe, with added privileges such as a dedicated guide, a private excursion car and spa access.
Suite cabin
Only two Suites (around 180 sq ft), in the Jhalawar coach, offering a queen-size bed beside a panoramic window, a modern en-suite and a complimentary spa session — a lovely step up for couples.
Presidential Suite
The pinnacle: a single Presidential Suite (around 240 sq ft) occupying its own private coach, with a king-size bed, a separate lounge, a jacuzzi en-suite and a ceiling of intricate Thikri mirror-work.
Which should you choose?
Choose Deluxe for the best balance of heritage character and value, a Super Deluxe or Suite for extra space and privileges, and the Presidential Suite for the grandest way to cross Rajasthan. The rarer cabins are very limited, so book early. Compare accommodation and fares.