Palace on Wheels Train Journey

Palace on Wheels is now available for charter. The train of the Maharajas can now be rented wholly, although at Maharaja like prices all the same – INR 1.7-2.5 crores ($310,000-450,000). Trade experts have expressed different opinions on this move by IRCTC – while some have lauded the initiative, others have already dismissed it as a dud. As I started to put my thoughts to paper, I could think of a few scenarios when you just can’t help but board the Palace on Wheels.

Palace on Wheels: A Hot Favorite of Distinguished Guests

Chugging the course of erstwhile princely states in Rajasthan from last 30 years, Palace on Wheels has earned unprecedented popularity in the luxury train tour segment across the globe.

A joint initiative of Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways, Palace on Wheels embarked on its maiden voyage on 26th January, 1982.
Over the period of its inception, this Indian luxury train has won accolades from the travel connoisseurs and magazines.

Palace On Wheels Luxury Train

Not many people know that the popularity and refinement of this luxury tourist train has encouraged distinguished personalities from all around the world to travel on board. Mentioned below are the names of few distinguished personalities who have traveled aboard this Indian luxury train.
The first person in the list is none other than Bollywood’s Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan, who hopped on Palace on Wheels to travel from Udaipur to Jaisalmer on 11th February, 2012.

Palace On Wheels Bar

The royal couple of Bhutan- King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wang chuck and Queen Jetsun Pema- chartered a portion of Palace on Wheels train for honeymoon trip in Rajasthan. The train was equipped with a saloon comprised of a bedroom, dining car and a pantry along with few air conditioned bogies to accommodate security personnel’s and staff. The couples boarded this Indian luxury train on 23rd October, 2012.

If such distinguished personalities have chosen Palace on Wheels Train for travelling in Rajasthan, it can’t be without a reason. This Indian luxury train constitutes of 23 coaches including 14 guest saloons, two dining cars- Maharaja and Maharani, one onsite bar and a spa coach known as Royal Spa.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels All Set For a New Season; Bookings Open

September 12, 2012. 1730 hrs. IRCTC and Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC)’s flagship luxury train, the Royal Rajasthan onWheels , is all set for a brand new season of luxury train travel. The train is the true epitome of luxury travel in India and hosts hundreds of guests in its elegant premises every season. Inaugurated in January, 2009; the train has since completed 3 seasons successfully. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is widely regarded as the top 5 luxury trains in Asia and has been highly rated at international travel forums. The train has 13 deluxe coaches named after various Rajput palaces.

Royal Rajasthan On Wheels  Restaurants 

There are separate carriages for Spa and Wellness Centre (Gym), Restaurants and Lounge area. The 7 night, 8 day journey is well planned and allows for ample time to explore each of the 9 destinations the train travels to. Most destinations are erstwhile Rajput kingdoms, with the addition of Delhi, Agra, Khajuraho and Varanasi which, individually, are true cultural benchmarks in their own right.

The highlight of the journey is the trip to the majestic Taj mahal in the final leg of the journey. Tickets are available on a first come first serve basis and all additional information can be gathered from the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels website.

Palace on wheels (A Journey of 30 Years)

The introduction of Palace on Wheels marked the beginning of luxury train travelling in India. The concept of luxury rail journeys was unknown in India till Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) in collaboration with the Indian Railways launched Palace on Wheels on 26th January, 1982. Over the course of its 30 years run, the train has achieved unprecedented heights and global acclaim for its unparallel opulence and royal élan

Palace On Wheels Journey

The year 1991 brought a massive change in Palace on wheels in terms of its inner look. The carriages of this Indian luxury train were replaced with the replica carriages fitted with modern amenities such as air conditioner. The train has won several accolades from travel magazines and connoisseurs such as PATA Gold Award in 1987 for its flawless services and resounding success.

Palace On Wheels Bar

When the proposal of launching a luxury tourist train in Rajasthan was passed, the engineers of Integral Factory Coach (ICF) used the ceased coaches of Rajputana rulers, Nizam of Hyderabad and Viceroy of India to construct the structure of Palace on Wheels. It was indeed the matter of pride for the maiden guests on board this train to walk in the carriages reminiscent to the bygone royalty.

The popularity of Palace on Wheels was so much so that Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) had to launch a second luxury train to accommodate the budding demands of luxury rail journeys in Rajasthan. The train has been inspiration for several state tourism boards to launch their version of luxury tourist train in their respective region. The introduction of Deccan Odyssey and Golden Chariot in 2004 and 2008 respectively proves the aforementioned statement.

Explore The Royal Rajasthan aboard Palace on Wheels Train

The term ‘royalty’ is synonymous with the land of Rajasthan wherein the royal lineage of Rajputana rulers can be witnessed in the form of forts and palaces. A journey aboard Palace on Wheels train brings you face to face with several forts and palaces housed within the erstwhile princely states of Rajasthan.  

Palace On Wheels Dining

A joint initiative of Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways, Palace on Wheels traverses the course of Rajasthan along with a halt in Agra. The destinations of Rajasthan covered by this luxury tourist train include Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Bharatpur. The 8 days and 7 nights journey on board is a perfect opportunity for tourists looking forward to glimpse the bygone splendor of Rajputana.

The first destination of Rajasthan covered by Palace on Wheels is Jaipur. Fondly known as ‘Pink City’, Jaipur was the erstwhile domain of Kacchawa Rajputs. The major attractions that you will visit in Jaipur include Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar. 

The very fact that a person still requires an elephant ride to enter the gateway of this fort will make you feel pomp of bygone era.

Palace On Wheels Sitting and Bar

Next on the cards is Chittorgarh. The Chittorgarh Fort is one of the largest forts in Rajasthan and stands as a testimony to important historic events such as ‘Jauhar’ committed by Rani Padmavati and Karnavati and the rebellion of Meera Bai. A spectacular son-et-lumiere within the fort premises will mark the crescendo of the evening. The light and sound show highlights the important events that took place in Chittorgarh fort over the course of history.

Palace on Wheels encompasses the erstwhile princely states of Rajputana during the course of 8 days and 7 nights. Plush cabins, gourmet dining, gracious services and exclusive insider experiences add to the refinement of this luxury rail journey. 

General information of Luxury train palace on wheels

There are few journeys in the world which encompass the best of both man-made marvels and the wonders of nature the palace on wheels train is one of them. A luxury train that never falls short of promising you a royal experience that’s why Rated as 4th best luxury train among the glob and New married couples comes to on board palace on wheels for honeymoon trip.Day by day the popularity of Indian luxury trains increase for its majestic ride.

The General information and services on train is provided below that help you all to planing your memorable trip of this luxury trains.

Palace On Wheels Sitting and Bar

Bar and Lounges
One well stocked bar with fine collection of house brands of wines, beer and spirits with snacks come complimentary to every passenger. Other than the home brand of wines and spirits, you will be charged for other brands of drinks.

Dining
A royal banquet for royal passengers, Palace on Wheels has two fine dining restaurants and everyone on board dines together. Wines and beer served whilst dining come complimentary.

Palace On Wheels Dinning

International and Domestic Flights
Flights are not included in the price of the journey presently but we can provide information on schedules, fares and even assist with the bookings, if required. We will be offering very special and exclusive packaged fares which can be combined with your land arrangements shortly.

Pre & Post Hotel Accommodation 
It is highly recommended that you take a minimum of one pre and post night accommodation with your rail journey. Bookings and reservations can be made online shortly.

Personal Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that you have adequate travel insurance cover from your country of domicile for injury, illness, death, accident, loss of effects or luggage and holiday cancellation. Kindly refer to the cancellation policy stated in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Extensions
Before or after your journey aboard the Palace on Wheels, you can also enhance your visit by extending your stay in the Indian Subcontinent. Please refer to our website www.palacesonwheels.com. for further details where bookings can be made for an array of tastefully crafted add on tours.

Insurance for Palace on Wheels
Palace on Wheels is comprehensively insured for fire, earthquake, theft and terrorism. All guests are covered under an umbrella insurance cover.

Travel Documents
Travel Documents, which are valid only for the passenger(s) named, will be issued after receipt of full payment for your reservation. Please carry your confirmation of booking with you on departure.

Dress Code
It is recommended to wear smart casual clothing and suitable walking shoes for off-train excursions during the day. Comfortable attire in natural restrained hues (bright colors are not advised) which blend with the landscape is essential for all excursion to wildlife reserves. Warm clothing is advisable on the winter departures.

Special Dietary Requirement
Kindly specify any special dietary requirements at the time of booking to avoid disappointment during your journey. Every effort is made to accommodate all culinary requests by the guests.

Baggage Allowance
There is limited storage space inside your cabin. It is recommend that each guest travels with luggage as per international airline – rules for first / business class passengers. It is also advisable to carry soft-topped luggage as it is easier to store. Luggage storage is provided under the bed and in the luggage hold.

Porters
Porters will be available at all embarkation and disembarkation stations to assist you with your luggage.

Wheelchair Access / Disabled Passengers
We regret that the dimensions of the carriages and design of the train are not suitable for wheelchair bound passengers. We also recommend that guests with limited mobility and other such constraints should be accompanied by an able-bodied passenger. However, our valets will be available to provide additional assistance. Kindly specify any special requirements at the time of booking.

Butlers
There is a dedicated team of butlers on board to attend to your every need. Available on call 24 hours, butlers on board the Palace on Wheels are trained to meet the needs of the guests and comply with utmost speed and efficiency.

Electricity
Voltage available on the train is 110 volts. International adaptors are also available on board.

Off Train Excursions
Since most of our off train excursions involve a fair amount of walking, we recommend you pack some comfortable walking shoes. A reasonable degree of physical fitness is required to participate on off train excursions during your journey. You may encounter unpaved sidewalks, uneven surfaces and problems getting on and off the train.

Guides
On all off train excursions, you will be accompanied by professional and qualified English speaking guides. Seasoned local guides who provide an invaluable and in-depth view of the sights that you visit are present to serve you as befits a royalty.
Language speaking guides can be provided at select destinations, subject to availability and at an extra cost. Please let us know of your requirement at the time of booking.

For more detail Go To The palaces on wheels and Mail for Enquiry about the journey

Some Important Points When Booking a Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Tour

Your booking has been confirmed on the Royal Rajasthan onWheels, the premier luxury train in India. But wait, did you pay enough attention to the important notes mentioned below the tariffs’ table. In case you do not have paranoia about details, there is a high chance that you may have ignored the tiny harmless scribbles at the end of the page. But, there’s still time and we are here to help you. Here’s a brief explanation about the various smaller but significant points you should bear in mind when booking luxury tours in India

Sapphire Suite

1-      Applicable Taxes

Taxes are not indicated in the tariffs mentioned. However, they are specified and billed along with the final invoice. Please go through the invoice thoroughly to understand the various taxes accounted for.

2-      Extra Charges for Children below 12 years of age

Accompanying children from 0 to 5 years are accountable for 10% of the total package cost. For children aged between 5 and 12 years, an additional 50% is incurred on the billed amount. All kids aged above 12 years will be charged as standard.

Amenities Galore

3-      No Processing Fees

Please note that there are no processing fees charged on your credit card when making the payment for your tour booking. The payment gateway is absolutely safe and helpline numbers are available to guide you through the payment process, if needed.

Run by these points before you click ‘Make Payment’ and you should do just fine. Happy Journey.

4-      Package Exclusions

The indicated tariff does not cover exclusions such as liquor, laundry, tips and gratuities, video camera fees and other items of personal nature. You will also have to bear the expenses of hiring any other service that is not a part of the package inclusions. 

Run by these points before you click ‘Make Payment’ and you should do just fine. Happy Journey.

Palace on Wheels Train Inaugural Run on September

India’s premier luxury train, Palace on Wheels, is scheduled to run its first course of the season on September 5, 2012. The train is the flagship luxury sojourn of Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and takes its guests on a scenic 8 day tour of the kingly Indian state of Rajasthan, with 1 day excursions to the wonderful Taj Mahal and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary scheduled. The train is quite popular with both international and local guests and gets sold out a couple of months prior to the beginning of the season. The destinations of the tour include Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Jaywalker, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra.

The train is a true ambassador of luxury travel and offers quality services and luxury facilities such as personal services of a butler, electronic safes, separate spa cars, souvenir shops, a separate lounge car and on-train entertainment. A salient feature of the train is varying ranges in tariffs to accommodate high and mid-range budgets. It is advisable for would-be guests to make prior booking on this luxury sojourn to avoid any last minute disappointments.For more information on journeys, scheduled departures, tariff plan and booking visit the page of  Palace on Wheels Train.

Palace on Wheels Itinerary

When it comes to Palace on Wheels, this Indian luxury train needs no introduction. Been voted World’s 4th Best Luxury Train by Conde Nast Traveller and revered around the world, Palace on Wheels has been in service for more than 30 years since its inception in 1982. Offering luxury train tour in Rajasthan, this luxury train showcases the rich heritage and royal legacy of the land of Rajput warrior princes in a weeklong itinerary starting from US $390 per person per night.

Palace On Wheels Dining

Palace On Wheels Sitting and Bar

The itinerary of Palace on Wheels has been tastefully designed to give a peek into the royal legacies left behind by erstwhile maharajas of princely states of Rajputana. The train itself is designed to recreate the elegance and opulence of former monarchs. The coaches replicate the ethos of the personal carriages used by former princes and viceroys of India. Traditional hospitality, fine dining and modern amenities blend together to offer an unforgettable travel experience.

Included in the itinerary is visit to some of the most important bastions of erstwhile princes of Rajputana. Starting with Jaipur, the Palace on Wheels covers Sawai Madhopur (home to Ranthambore National Park), Chittorgarh, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bharatpur along with a halt in Agra to visit one of the world’s most iconic landmark Taj Mahal before concluding the tour in New Delhi on the 8^th day of the tour.

Palace on Wheels : Points to be Considered While Booking Your Journey

The mere mention of ‘luxury Rajasthan tour’ evokes the picture of Palace on Wheels train on the canvas of imagination. The brain child of Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways, Palace on Wheels offers a weeklong jaunt into Rajputana heartland. The destinations covered by this Indian luxury train include Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra. Adjudged as 4th best luxury train in the world, Palace on Wheels come equipped with all state of the art amenities required for a luxury rail journey.

Palace On Wheels Train

But this blog post stresses upon some important points regarding pre-journey preparations while travelling to a foreign country.
Here I have enlisted some points that will enable a hassle free Rajasthan tour aboard Palace on Wheels train.
• It is advised to book 1 pre and post night accommodation in a hotel. This will help you in case if you are arriving a day before the commencement of the luxury rail journey or have a delayed flight back to your home country.

Palace On Wheels Journey

• Keep all you documents such as train ticket, visa, passport and insurance in place along with the attested photocopies as they would help you if originals get lost.

 • Carry your luggage in accordance with the international airline rules as there is less storage space in the passenger cabins. It is recommended to carry a soft-topped luggage due to their easy storability.

 • Search out all the information regarding the weather conditions of Rajasthan before booking your journey on board Palace on Wheels Train . The information would help you in packing appropriate clothes. Tourists have a tendency to overlook these aforementioned points but they are the key points for the beginning of a hassle free tour.

Palace on Wheels : Points to be Considered While Booking Your Journey

When it comes to luxury tour in Rajasthan, name of the Palace on Wheels stands foremost. One of the most revered luxury trains of the world, Palace on Wheels offer weeklong luxury train tour in Rajasthan. The all inclusive tariff of this luxury rail journey starts from US $390 per person per night. The itinerary of the train tour includes tours to Jaipur, Ranthambore, Chittaurgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra.

Palace On Wheels Train

Palace on Wheels train tour is tastefully designed to offer a heady mix of heritage, royalty, wildlife and modernity to the guests. Tour to Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, forts and palaces of erstwhile Rajputana and an array of World Heritage Sites ensures that the guests get a complete tour package with a peek into myriad hues of India’s past and present.

One of the reasons to choose this luxury train tour in Rajasthan is that Palace on Wheels tariff is all inclusive. This ensures that the guests get a complete package eliminating the hassles associated with touts and travel agencies. Train booking cost includes accommodation during the duration of the tour, dining, entrance fees at the monuments, transportation and porter charges. However any expenses of the personal nature on and off the train are not included in the tariff.

Palace on Wheels will commence its journey for this season beginning September 2012. The train departs every Wednesday from Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi.

Schedule for the season January 2012 to December 2012
September 2012	5, 12, 19, 26
October 2012	3, 10, 17, 24, 31
November 2012	7, 14, 21, 28
December 2012	5, 12, 19, 26

Schedule for the season January 2013 to December 2013
January 2013	2, 9, 16, 23, 30
February 2013	6, 13, 20, 27
March 2013	6, 13, 20, 27
April 2013	3, 10, 17, 24
August 2013	7, 14, 21, 28
October 2013	2, 9, 16, 23, 30
November 2013	6, 13, 20, 27
December 2013	4, 11, 18, 25

For details of train facilities, itinerary and destinations, you may like to visit the website of the Palace on Wheels.

Palace on Wheels: Day Wise Tour Details

Palace on Wheels, the name that suddenly create a picture of luxury, romance, grandness and opulence before our eyes, is rightly been called the king of luxury train travelling in India. This Indian luxury train is the beautiful replication of the royal carriages used by the Maharajas and Nizams of the bygone era.

Palace on Wheels Train

Taking the travelers in a bewitching journey of 8 days and 7 nights, the royal Indian train crisscrosses through some of the beguiling places in northern and north-western India that includes Delhi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra. Each new day in the journey comes with platters of surprises for the guests as the train reaches a new destination with the dawn of every new day. The Palace on Wheels off train excursion tours are tailored in a way to present before the travelers different hues and shades of Indian culture, history and landscape in the most exclusive manner.

 Day 1: Delhi • As every aspect is grand and opulent about Palace on Wheels, so the welcome ceremony is also not an exception to that. A traditional Indian welcome ceremony in the Safdarjung Railway Station Delhi marks a fabulous beginning of your weeklong tour to Rajasthan.

Qutub Minar, Delhi

• After the check-in formalities, the guests are escorted to their respective carriages by the train staff. • Enjoy a tempting dinner and a royal sleep onboard Palace on Wheels, while the train will keep on moving towards its next destination, Jaipur.

Day 2: Jaipur • At the start of early morning, the train reaches Jaipur. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast onboard and witness a grand Rajasthani style garlanding ceremony at the Jaipur railway station as you disembark the train for your off-train tours. • At afternoon, reach the Amber Fort, for a tantalizing lunch and after that explore the fort with the experienced guide of the train.

Amber Fort, Jaipur

• The evening will be studded with a tour to the local markets and a grand dinner at the Jai Mahal Palace Hotel.

 Day 3: Sawai Madhopur/Chittorgarh • The third day morning will begin with thrilling surprises for the guests as they embark on a jungle safari in Ranthambore National Park after reaching Sawai Madhopur. • After returning from the safari, the train will move towards Chittorgarh and will reach the place by the evening.

Royal Tigers, Sawai Madhopur

• Enjoy the evening with an excursion tour to Chittorgarh Fort and savor tea and other refreshments in the fort cafeteria accompanied by a beautiful light and sound show.

Day 4: Udaipur • The fourth day of the train journey is a special surprise for the love birds as on this day the train will reach the city of lakes Udaipur. Soaked in romance and beauty, a tour to Udaipur in the morning will add the pinch of romanticism in your entire jaunt.

Lake Palace, Udaipur

• By the afternoon, you will be taken to a heritage hotel of the city where to savor a grand lunch. • The evening at Udaipur will be made more mesmerizing with a boat ride in the lake Pichola.

Day 5: Jaisalmer • Jaisalmer is said to be the soul of the rustic Rajasthan. Reach the city at morning and set off to an explorative tour to Jaisalmer.

Gadi Sagar Lake, Jaisalmer

 • Savor a camel ride in Jaisalmer at the evening along with tea and refreshments in the sand dunes.
 • As the sun hides itself behind the starry sky, you will be entertained with a cultural program performed by the local artists of the place. Enjoy a dinner under the night sky and return back to the train after that for your onward journey to Jodhpur.

Day 6: Jodhpur • Another gem of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is dotted with giant forts and palaces. After having a rejuvenating breakfast onboard, set off for an off-train tour to Udaipur

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

• At afternoon, a lunch at the deluxe resort make you savor some of the best Rajasthani dishes in a royal manner • At night, enjoy a grand dinner onboard Palace on Wheels.

Day 7: Bharatpur/Agra • For the bird watchers, this morning is a fabulous surprise as you will be taken to the Ghana National Park at Bharatpur for an early morning bird viewing.

Taj Mahal, Agra

• Late morning, arrive at Agra, the city of majestic Taj Mahal. Embark on a sightseeing tour to the city and after lunch, explore the beauty of Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. • Evening at Agra is adorned with a roam to the city market and then a light and sound show. At night, return to the royal train Palace on Wheels for an onward journey back Delhi.

Day 8: Delhi • Early morning, the Palace on Wheels will reach at the Safdarjung Railway Station, Delhi.
                       • Enjoy a breakfast onboard the royal luxury train followed by a check out and farewell formality.