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. 

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 Facilities

A trip to the land of Rajputana ‘Rajasthan’ becomes all more captivating with a journey on board Palace on Wheels. A joint initiative of Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways, Palace on Wheels train takes guests on a whirlwind tour across erstwhile princely states of Rajasthan in a journey lasting over a week. 

Palace On Wheels Train

The train has been tastefully designed keeping in mind the cultural ethos of a particular region of Rajasthan.  Well-appointed cabins with personal butlers, 2 multi-cuisine restaurants, well stocked bar, a nonchalant lounge and a rejuvenating spa adds to the features of this Indian luxury train.

Facilities Provided on board

·         14 guest carriages with a passenger capacity of 88 people.

·         All guest carriages have been named after erstwhile princely states of Rajasthan.

§  Alwar Salon

§  Bharatpur Saloon

§  Bundi Saloon

§  Dholpur Saloon

§  Jaisalmer Saloon

§  Jaipur Saloon

§  Jodhpur Salon

§  Jhalawar Saloon

§  Kishangarh Saloon

§  Kota Salon

§  Udaipur Saloon

§  Bikaner Saloon

§  Dungargarh Saloon

§  Sirohi Saloon

Palace On Wheels Journey

·         Each guest carriage highlights the cultural ethos of that region.

·         Their interior décor constitutes of mirror work, miniature paintings and upholstery.

·         State of the art facilities provided in each carriage

§  Channel Music System

§  Electronic Safe

§  Internet Facility with Laptop

§  Air Conditioning

§  Direct Dial Phone

·         Each guest carriage appointed with a Khidmatgar.

Palace On Wheels Bar

Dining

·         Two tastefully designed restaurants

§  Maharaja

§  Maharani

·         Both serves eclectic assortment of Indian, European and traditional Mewari cuisines

·         Both have in-house bar stocked with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

Sitting Lounge

Sitting Lounge offers perfect ambience to:

§  Unwind and Relax

§  Engage in a chat with fellow travelers

Royal Spa

Offer massages and therapies to revitalize your souls.

Other Specifics on board

·         Availability of Indoor Games for recreation

§  Chess

§  Playing Cards

§  Carom Boards

§  Crossword Puzzles

Palace On Wheels Luxury Trains

·         Special assistance for disabled passengers

·         Facility of Mail Box

·         24 hours Medical Aid

·         Leading newspapers and magazines

·         Souvenirs on board Palace on Wheels for sale

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: Tips for Pre Journey Preparations

With only 1 month left for the commencement of Palace on Wheels first seasonal chug, it’s time for you to gear up for Rajasthan tour aboard this Indian luxury train. Although tourists might have already booked for the preferred journey date as per the schedule of Palace on Wheels given below, there are some aspects that must not be overlooked while travelling to a foreign land. Enlisted below are some tips that will facilitate you with a hassle free journey.

Palace On Wheels Train

Month	Departure Date
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
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

Tourists enjoying the Dishtv Live TV entertainment at the Palace on Wheels

Guest Boards Place On Wheels

Palace on Wheels

Packing the clothes

If you are not an Indian resident, do check the weather conditions of Rajasthan and pack your clothes accordingly. During off train excursions, it is suggested to wear smart casual clothes and comfortable walking shoes because guests on board Palace on Wheels are taken for lunch at five star hotels and cultural programs. If you have opted for winter departure, do make sure to keep warm clothes in your luggage.

Gather all the required travel Documents

While gearing up for travel especially to a foreign country, one needs to make sure that all your travel documents are in place. Keep all your necessary documents in a file such as passport, visa, insurance, air and train ticket so that they won’t jumble up with the clothes and other accessories in your baggage. Attested photocopies of the original travel documents must be kept as they would help you in case the originals get lost.

Keep Limited Luggage with you

The cabins on board Palace on Wheels have quite less storage space; hence it is advised to carry as per the international airline rules. Also it is recommended that passengers should be carrying soft-topped luggage as they are easy to store.

Pre & Post Hotel Accommodation

In case there is delay in commencement or culmination of this luxury rail journey due to some unforeseen events, it is recommended to book one pre and post night accommodation in a hotel.

If all aforementioned are followed with scrutiny then a hassle free and enjoyable Rajasthan tour aboard Palace on Wheels is guaranteed.