LUXURY TRAIN PALACE ON WHEELS

 

We all have some beautiful loving fun memories of our childhood with our parents and siblings. Siblings fight and argue but I am sure all this creates some really adorable memories. One of my favorite moments with my parents and siblings is a train trip to a family wedding or a vacation specially to my grandparents place in Delhi. Travelling by train was always fun with all that heavy luggage, getting hungry as soon as we sat on the train and sleeping on the sleepers gossiping and singing. Time and technology has changed to make human life better and comfortable. One such great example is a Royal Train Palace on wheels. Yes it's true that it can never recreate those childhood memories of old times due to busy life but we can relive the moments for sure while travelling with our family and friends.

 Today I am talking about my favorite States of India, Rajasthan and will be sharing information on the Pride of Rajasthan The Palace on Wheels. The Palace on Wheels is a luxury tourist train with all the best possible comforts which was launched by the Indian Railways in association with Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation to promote tourism in Rajasthan. The train service was refurbished and relaunched in August 2009 with a new decor, itinerary and cuisine and is one of the top luxury trains in India. ( rated as one of the world’s best train journeys) . In the ‘80s the cars were refurbished and turned into a special heritage tourist train, creating a unique, unforgettable way to explore India. The passengers have a very comforting journey as everything is very well taken care of, including all meals, guided excursions and on-board accommodation for seven nights. The Royal train is enjoyed by visitors all around the world hassle-free set up with all the luxury available with a well planned sightseeing into a short time period. Travelling on the Palace on Wheels is one of the memorable ways to explore Incredible India and its stately splendour. The carriages have been refurbished as replicas of the original saloon carriages of the Maharajas.

The Palace on Wheels have three cabins per carriage with big cabins .Each cabin has a special attendant who is always available to attend and assist you with best possible services. 

 ACCOMMODATION and AMENITIES 

The train has 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins which include Restaurant Cars with Lounge Bar 1 Spa Car Complimentary Wi-Fi Exclusive Butler The Palace on Wheels cabins are in two categories – Deluxe and Super Deluxe Suites 

 DELUXE CABIN 

There are three Deluxe cabins within 13 carriages which are named after the Royal palaces of Rajasthan Chandra Mahal, Moti Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Kumbha Palace, Umaid Palace, Jal Mahal, Surya Mahal, Sukh Mahal, Padmini Mahal, Kishori Mahal, Phool Mahal, Jogi Mahal, Lalgarh Palace. Each cabin is themed and named after a precious stone Ruby(left), Pearl (middle) and Sapphire (right) which are decorated in the theme of the color of the stone.

 A Deluxe cabin has a large bed, writing desk, sitting area, chairs and access to a butler. The bed can be combined as double or twin beds as per the requirement. The amenities inside the cabin include Internet Electronic safe In-suite bathroom( shower cubicle, hot water, hair dryer and toiletries) Complimentary beverage and snack Indoor games Mail box Doctor with free consultation Access to other service carriages like gym, spa and others Air conditioning system.

 SUPER DELUXE SUITES 

The Palace on Wheels has 1 Super Deluxe coach with 2 suite's named Emerald and Diamond, with queen-size double beds. Super Deluxe cabin’s are more spacious compared to the Deluxe Cabin. Each Super deluxe suite contains a queen-size double beds Fully air-conditioned with attached spacious washroom Hair Dryer & Free toiletries Power plugs with 220 volt electricity Hot and cold water at all time Safe for valuables Television CD Player Complimentary water, tea and coffee Wall to wall carpets Wi-Fi Internet (extra charges might apply) Laundry service is available (charges apply) Access to irons / ironing done by attendants. There's a personal attendant to assist you on the platform to help you with carrying your luggage and explaining about the facilities available on board. Always on call, the service leaves nothing to be desired. The use of neat comfortable exquisite silk and velvet furnishings, inspired by fabrics and designs used by kings in their living areas and bed rooms, along with the intricate wood carved furnishing with finely carved furniture, are the hallmarks of this exclusive coach. You can relax in the library, have a drink at the bar, or just retreat into your extensive cabin and watch the tapestry of the Rajasthan countryside unfold. The massive plain glass windows to watch the countrywide view. Indulge in a relaxing in a well-equipped royal spa that offers various massages, therapies and revitalising solutions amidst a majestic ambiance to pamper yourself. 

 FOOD and MEALS

 When travelling in India you cannot go back without enjoying the amazing authentic food. You can taste and enjoy the International cuisine served in Palace on Wheels prepared by expert chefs. There’s a whole team of servers during mealtime who work the room dishing out multiple courses on silver platters. The hospitality can be felt especially when they keep trying to sneak an extra serving on to your plate and the manner the food is served. Dinner is a set menu each night consisting of Continental, Chinese and Indian options such as traditional Rajasthani food with never-ending plates of food emerging from the kitchen mean everyone always leaves stuffed or yes overstuffed. When it comes to beverages, bottled water, juice, coffee and tea are included, while there is an extra charge for soft drinks and alcohol. There is the comfortable bar-cum-lounge where you can relax over your favourite drink, burrow in a book or converse with fellow passengers. Attached to it are two restaurant cars, Maharaja and Maharani. Accompanying chefs can whip up a Special assistance such as wheelchairs and an attendants is available for the one with special needs.

 ROUTE

 Exploring Incredible India in such a royal manner is indeed an amazing life time experience. Imagine seeing a world wonder, riding a camel in the desert, visiting seven colourful cities, going on a tiger safari, and exploring some of India’s most magnificent forts and palaces all in just one week. That’s exactly what travellers who book a journey on the Palace on Wheels train can expect, as they ride the rails through the northern state of Rajasthan, including a stop in Agra. The journey begins in India’s capital city, New Delhi with a warm lively welcoming ceremony of the guests. 

The train leaves from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi on a week-long run through Rajasthan . The trip includes a visit to Agra and the Taj Mahal. Turban-wearing attendants take over from the moment you arrive at the platform, assigning you your cars and detailing all the facilities that are on board. The train moves by night and arrives each morning at a new destination where novel experiences await you. 

 ROUTE Line(s) served New Delhi - Jaipur - Udaipur - Bharatpur - Agra - New Delhi Route The train has a 7 nights & 8 days itinerary departs from New Delhi (Day 1), and covers Jaipur (Day 2), Sawai Madhopur and Chittorgarh (Day 3), Udaipur (Day 4), Jaisalmer (Day 5), Jodhpur (Day 6), Bharatpur and Agra (Day 7), return to New Delhi (Day 9). In just 8 days you travel across the huge terrain of Rajasthan and Agra soaked in the Indian culture while being a special pampered guest. The week-long tour also includes special culture shows arranged at some of the cities. If you're looking for souvenirs the guides will direct you to government-approved shops.  

SCHEDULE 

The train operates from September to April and tends to run at full occupancy, so reservations months in advance are recommended. I suggest checking all details and information before you plan to make sure any changes.

 We all well agree that there is something so special about traveling by train with family and friends. The good time we have seeing a new country passing by your window while you sip some tea or wine. Even better when the landscape is incredible India, a country fully packed with unique architecture and stunning beauty. Traveling 7 days on Palace on Wheels train you can see the best of Rajasthan and the majestic Taj Mahal. There is no better way to explore this intriguing part of India pampered by royal service, private tours, lovely staff and delicious yummy food. After a week of living like Maharajas you will definitely be in love with the country and its Royal culture.