Luxury Train Journey in Rajasthan: A Palace on Wheels

A journey on The Palace on Wheels is more than just a train ride; it is an immersive experience that offers a glimpse into the charm and culture of Rajasthan's royal heritage. This is a luxury train that takes you on a journey through one of India's most vibrant and historic regions. Combining the elegance of a bygone era with modern comforts, the Palace on Wheels offers a royal experience straight from the world of heritage and sophistication. From the luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining to the meticulously planned itinerary and impeccable service, every aspect of the journey is designed to make guests feel like royalty. 

The Train: A Moving Palace

The Palace on Wheels is not just a train but a moving palace. Launched in 1982, the train was conceptualized to showcase the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal heritage. Each of the 14 deluxe coaches is named after a former Rajput state and is adorned with exquisite décor that reflects the state's unique cultural and historical significance. The train’s interiors blend traditional Rajput architecture and modern luxury, featuring intricate carvings, and antique furnishings that evoke the charm of a royal past. 

The journey on the Palace on Wheels is 7 nights and 8 days, it operates from September to April, the cooler months in India, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable. The prices for this luxurious experience range from around 50K to 2L per person, depending on the season and the type of cabin chosen. While the journey is certainly a splurge, it is well worth the cost for those seeking to experience the grandeur of India's royal history, which is frequented primarily by foreign tourists.

Luxurious Accommodations

The Palace on Wheels offers 39 deluxe cabins and two super deluxe suites, each equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. The cabins are spacious and elegantly decorated, with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The super deluxe suites, named the Taj Mahal and the Hawa Mahal, offer an added layer of luxury with larger living spaces and opulent décor. Personalised Khitmatgar (butler service) is available 24/7.

Gourmet Dining

Dining on the Palace on Wheels is a culinary journey in itself. The train boasts two restaurant cars, "The Maharaja" and "The Maharani," each exuding an ambience of royal grandeur. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including traditional Rajasthani, Indian, Continental, and Chinese, all prepared by expert chefs. The sumptuous meals are served on fine china and cutlery, making every dining experience a royal affair. Additionally, the train has a well-stocked bar, "The Royal Bar," offering an extensive selection of wines, spirits, and cocktails.

Exquisite Amenities

Every detail on the Palace on Wheels is designed to provide guests with the utmost comfort and luxury. The Train features a personal attendant, known as a ‘Khidmatgar,’ who caters to the needs of guests around the clock, providing impeccable service and enhancing the overall journey with personalized attention and care. The train also features a spa and wellness center where guests can indulge in relaxing massages and treatments. There is also a lounge car, "The Rajputana," where guests can unwind with a book, enjoy a board game, or simply relax and take in the scenic views. The train also offers a souvenir shop, providing a selection of handcrafted items and memorabilia to take home.

Ambience and Experience

The ambiance on the Palace on Wheels is a perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort. The décor, inspired by the royal palaces of Rajasthan, creates an atmosphere of grandeur and sophistication. The staff, dressed in traditional attire, greet guests with a warm welcome and provide impeccable service throughout the journey. The evenings are often filled with cultural performances at the destinations the train travels to, including folk music and dance, giving guests a taste of Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage.

Itinerary: An Unforgettable Journey

The Palace on Wheels offers a meticulously planned seven-day itinerary that covers some of Rajasthan's most iconic destinations. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the journey:

Day 1: Departure from Delhi

4:00 PM: Guests arrive at the Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi and receive a traditional welcome with garlands, tilak, and a refreshing drink.

6:30 PM: Departure from Delhi. Guests are shown to their cabins and enjoy a welcome dinner on board.

8:00 PM: Dinner on board

Day 2: Jaipur - The Pink City

3:45 AM: Arrival in Jaipur

7:00 AM: Breakfast on board.

8:30 AM: Departure by coach for Sight Seeing

1:30 PM: Lunch at Amber Fort

6:00 PM: Return to the train for dinner and departure.

Day 3: Sawai Madhopur & Chittorgarh

5:30 AM: Early morning arrival in Sawai Madhopur. Visit Ranthambore National Park for a jungle safari.

9:15 AM: Return to the train for breakfast and departure for Chittorgarh.

2:00 PM: Lunch on board.

4:00 PM: Arrival in Chittorgarh. Visit the Chittorgarh Fort and enjoy the light and sound show.

7:30 PM: Return to the train for dinner.

Day 4: Udaipur - The City of Lakes

8:00 AM: Breakfast on board.  Arrival in Udaipur. Visit the City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Saheliyon Ki Bari.

1:30 PM: Lunch at Palace Hotel (Fateh Prakash)

3:30 PM: Return to the train for departure for Jaisalmer and dinner on board.

Day 5: Jaisalmer - The Golden City

7:30 AM: Breakfast on board.

9:15 AM: Arrival in Jaisalmer. Visit Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake.

1:30 PM: Lunch on board.

3:30 PM: Visit Sam Sand Dunes for a camel ride and cultural program.

7:45 PM: Dinner & Cultural Programme at a 5-star Hotel (HRH Gorband Palace)

11:45 PM: Departure for Jodhpur.

Day 6: Jodhpur - The Blue City

7:30 AM: Breakfast on board. Arrival in Jodhpur. Visit Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, and Umaid Bhawan Palace.

1:30 PM: Lunch at 5 Star Hotel (Hanumant Palace)

3:30 PM: Return to the train for departure for Bharatpur and dinner on board.

Day 7: Bharatpur & Agra

5:00 AM: Early morning arrival in Bharatpur. Visit Keoladeo National Park for bird watching.

8:30 AM: Return to the train for breakfast and departure for Agra.

10:30 AM: Arrival in Agra. Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.

1:30 PM: Lunch at a luxury hotel (Mughal Shereton).

8:00 PM: Return to the train for dinner and departure for Delhi.

Day 8: Return to Delhi

7:00 AM: Breakfast on board.

7:30 AM: Arrival at Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi. Farewell and disembarkation.