After India got independence in 1947, all the royal carriages were ceased to be used as it was not feasible to include these in the normal passenger trains because of their valuable furnishings of the train interiors which required heavy upkeeping cost. Thus, with a view to promote tourism in Rajasthan and to provide the world travelers a royal experience of traveling, Palace on Wheels was launched in the year 1982. The motive was noble, to promote tourism in the train as well as to preserve the private cars of the erstwhile Nizams, Maharajas and Viceroys of India. Within just few years of its inception, the train caught the global fancy and was awarded the PATA Gold Award in 1987.
At present, 14 gracefully adorned guest carriages offer an ultimate journey experience to the guests. Starting from multi-cuisine restaurants to lounge bars, and from rejuvenating spa carriage to opulent personal cars, the train is equipped with modern amenities to pamper the guest throughout their rail jorney. The fully air-conditioned carriages with access to wireless internet enables the guests to keep in touch with the globe on the go.