Rajasthan Royal Train:- The Palace on Wheels
The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train, run by Government of India. The train covers the state of Rajasthan, along with Agra. The luxury train is completely self dependent and has all the facilities of a five star hotel. Palace on Wheels carries with it an intrinsic ambiance that goes perfectly well with the majestic charm and beauty spread so lavishly in Rajasthan. The ambiance and the aura make the astute feel to be living in the regal era.
It is an unparalleled experience to ride the replica carriages refurbished to look like the original saloons of the Maharajas, the erstwhile rulers of India. The train that is so true to its name is bound to enchant you. The train trip is among the top ten luxury train tours in the world.
A Brief History The coaches were made for the former Indian rulers, comprising of personal coaches of the rulers of the princely states of Gujarat and Rajputana, the Viceroy of British India and the Nizam of Hyderabad. They used these coaches to move from one state to other. After India got independence and the princely states merged with the Government, the coaches and the train became a part of the museums. In 1980, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, together with the Indian Railways decided to re-launch the train, and offer it to people. Today, the Palace on Wheels is the most promoted product by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
The Fascinating Journey The train journey starts every Wednesday at 1630 hrs and ends one week later, on Wednesday at 0800 hrs. In between the train covers Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Ranthambhore, Udaipur, Bharatpur, Fatehpur Sikri and Agra. The train gives an opportunity to its travelers to get familiar with the culture of Rajasthan. The major tourist spots, forts, monuments, wildlife parks, cultural centers are covered.
The Interiors of Palace on Wheel Amusingly, the nomenclature of saloons in Palace on wheels in quite different then usual. The names of the saloons given are based on the princely states of Rajasthan- Jaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, Bundi, Kota, Jhalawar, Dungarpur, Dholpur, Bharatpur, Jaisalmer, Sirohi, Bikaner, Udaipur and Kishangarh. Interestingly, you will find that each saloon highlights the cultural ethos of the state. The ethnic heritage of each cities is represented by the extensive usuage of furniture, handicrafts, painting and furnishings. The ceiling in the lounge is of particular interest. Each saloon is different but the overall ambiance of the décor of the saloons has been taken care of to provide continuity and harmony. Each saloon has cream yellow colour on its exterior walls and bears the Coat of Arms (logo) of the erstwhile princely states
The Onboard Facilities There are about 14 saloons, each having 4 cabins attached with bath and shower. The luxury train also boast two restaurants cum kitchen cars offering traditional Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine with the Chef's special variety of the day. Its well stocked bar serves Indian liquor and variety of scotch, wine and cocktails. It has piped music in every saloon, and interesting games for children. Apart from this, the other services on request include laundry services, and Doctor on call at each station, barber shop & beauty parlour. The lounge also has a souvenirs shop 'The Bazaar' where souvenirs and gift items are sold bearing the insignia of the Palace on Wheel.
The Comfort The comfort offered are close to the extravagances enjoyed by the erstwhile Maharajas. The Palace on Wheels maintains an imperial style and decor. The train facilities are synonymous with the epitome of luxury. Especially facilitated with all modern amenities of everyday life, one can find the royal past haunting in the historical coaches. The two dining cars are decked up in true Rajasthani style and each saloon has personal attendants, khidmatgars, for your service.
The train is on the journey every week and advanced booking for the journey shall be made. The fare covers travel, stay on Maharaja train with daily 3 fixed meals, conducted sightseeing tours, entrance fees to monuments, joy rides on Elephant & Camel, boat ride, cycle rickshaw ride and transport within the city.
The Cultural Programmes on the train The dance and music of Rajasthan is one of the fascinating aspect of the luxury train Journey. The train is a wonderful medium for a tourist to know about the culture and heritage. The various dance performances held on the train are - Ghoomar Dance, Chari Dance, Kachhi Godhi , Fire dance, Terah talli, Kalbelia Dance.
Booking : (i) 25% of ticket value at the time of booking (ii) 75% of ticket value 30 days prior to departure
Cancellation : (i) 15% of ticket value 60 days prior to departure (ii) 30% of ticket value 30-59 days prior to departure (iii) 60% of ticket value 15-29 days prior to departure (iv) 100% of ticket value 14 days prior to departure
Check in: Reporting time is 4 pm at Delhi Cantt. (Cantonment) Railway Station
Meals The two restaurant cars, the Maharaja and the Maharani, serve a range of Rajasthani, Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine. Menus are changed seasonally.
Exclusive Charters: Companies can organise a "Business-cum-Pleasure" trip by chartering the truly luxurious Palace-On-Wheels for their conferences. The Palace on Wheels tours make you experience all the luxuries worthy of the affluent Indian maharajas of yore. Exuberance and extravagance are some of the feeling that you might go through while on your voyage. This royal journey by palace on wheels is a firsthand experience of the lavish lifestyles of the Indian kings. The décor, food and hospitality speak of sheer luxury and opulence.
Rajasthan In Details