The first Palace on Wheels journey began its inaugural run-on 26 January 1982 and has been a popular way of touring Rajasthan ever since. Within a few years the Palace on Wheels was rated as one of the ten best luxurious train journeys in the world.
The 14 air-conditioned coaches are named after former Rajput states matching the aesthetics and interiors of the royal past. Each saloon has a mini pantry to ensure availability of hot and cold beverages, and refreshments. The modern conveniences have been thoughtfully provided, sofas to sink into, strategically placed lights to read by, wonderfully appointed beds with comfortable furnishings, inbuilt wardrobes and huge glass windows to watch the countryside roll past.
A Leisurely Sojourn by Train: There is something so romantic about a train journey that even the most intrepid traveller finds himself getting carried away by the sense of adventure that accompanies most train journeys. There are many wonderful long train journeys, of course, all of them touched with a mystique of romance and excitement, but a journey par excellence is a trip on board the Palace on Wheels.
The excitement of the history of the Rajput kingdoms permeates through, clearly captured in a contemporary mode. Step aboard this luxurious train and let yourself be pampered by the wonderful service, cuisine and recapture the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era
The magical tour starts in the evening with a ceremonial welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels at Safdarjung, New Delhi. Be prepared for a royal welcome when you are greeted with a garland, a traditional tikka, with Sehnai and welcome drink. You will be introduced to your fellow travellers; feel free to explore your new palace, and acquaint yourself with its various facilities. Relax with a drink at the bar. Dinner will be served on board in its two excellent restaurants.
Your tour begins at the famed Hawa Mahal, followed by the amazing Jantar Mantar, or Observatory; Albert Hall Museum and City Palace, home of the erstwhile rulers and now a well-maintained museum. Lunch is at Amber Fort. Enjoy an elephant ride up to the fort. See the splendid fusion of Rajput and Mugal style of architecture here. There is enough time to do some shopping at this beautiful city that is known as a shopper's paradise. Dinner is on board.
The Land of Tigers - Ranthambhore National Park is spread over an area of 392 sq kms., comprises of dry deciduous forest sprawling over an undulating terrain of Aravail and Vindhyachal Ranges. The park is one of the finest Tiger Reserves in the country under the project Tiger. The majestic predators assured of protection, roam freely during the day time and can be seen sometimes from close quarters. Beside this a large number other- wild animals and pretty birds can be spotted during the visit. Another interesting monument here is the 1000-year-old Ranthambhore Fort that is of great historical importance to be viewed from distance. Breakfast and Lunch is on board (Palace on Wheels).
The Symbol of Sacrifice and Bravery - One of the largest forts of India and also one with the most romantic and awe- inspiring history... Built by various rulers during 5th to 8th century period, this fort covers an area of 680 acres. The fort is accessible through seven gates. Important places here are Rana Kumbha palace; Padamini's Palace; Vijay Stambh; and various temples and kunds. Enjoy the light and sound show at the fort. Followed by dinner on board.
The City of Lakes and Palaces - Udaipur is also known as the City of Lakes, Maharana Udai Singh founded this new kingdom after he moved here from Chittorgarh. Start the day with a good breakfast. Lunch is at 5-star Hotel where you can enjoy a view of the beautiful Lake. Site-seeing will include a City Palace visit to the famed Crystal Gallery where you can see a collection of the most amazing crystal objects that are on display. Enjoy a boat ride before you head back to the train.
The Jewel of the Desert - In the heart of the Thar Desert lies Jaisalmer, a capital founded by Rawal Jaisal, in AD 1156.This golden city of Rajasthan has a charm of its own. The western most citadel of the desert.... the yellow sandstone fort is an imposing sight. Discover the intricately carved, latticed havelis with their grand facades. After lunch in hotel/on board, go for an exciting camel ride on the sweeping sand dunes of Sam. This is followed by a cultural performance campfire with dinner at a 5-star hotel. The magical charm of the desert will enthrall you.
The Sun City - Early next morning, the Palace on Wheels arrives in the sun-city Jodhpur, was established in AD 1459. It is a land of majestic and mystic glory. A panoramic view of the city gives it a unique charm as it appears to have been painted in soft blue shades- like a Painter's masterstroke. A visit to the Mehrangarh Fort will leave you awe- struck, this majestic fort has an excellent museum and still preserves a vast array of artefacts. See the country's only palace built in the 20th century - a fine specimen of Rajput architecture viz. the lavish Umaid Bhawan Palace. The mesmerizing royal charm will linger on as you leave Jodhpur, after lunch at palace hotel.
Its Lively Bird Sanctuary Early next morning, the Palace on Wheels arrives in Bharatpur, the capital of erstwhile ruler Maharaja Suraj Mal. Visit to one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world the famous Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the nesting place of Egrets, Siberian Cranes, migratory Water Fowl and other species of birds over three hundred species of birds many of them migrant that come from parts as distant as Siberia and China. Breakfast on board.
Taj Mahal world famous monument of eternal love in city Agra is known the world over for its beautiful Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal, a marble mausoleum built in the memory of his beloved Empress by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, is the greatest gesture of love known to mankind and is breathtakingly beautiful. Lunch at a five-star hotel, after lunch some shopping at this beautiful city and Dinner on board. The journey ends here and you will head back to Delhi with memories of this incredible trip that is bound to linger on in your heart for a long, long time.
The Palace on Wheels train returns to Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station by 05:30AM followed by the delicious breakfast at 6:15am and check-out by 07:15 AM after adios Breakfast.
The gracious hospitality continues on ground as well, you have dedicated staff, with experience going back on years, to ease your journey.
Foreign exchange facilities at hotels.
Light & Sound shows at Chittorgarh and cultural events at Jaisalmer.
Sightseeing becomes a pleasurable experience when you are taken around on especially dedicated buses and avoid the usual hassles that some tourists seem to face.
Shopping can be a pleasure when you know that you're getting genuine stuff at reasonable prices.
You are accorded a special welcome not only when you board the train but also when you visit any of the palace hotels for your meals.