Luxury Golden Triangle Tour: Discover India’s Majesty on Palace on Wheels
The Luxury Golden Triangle Tour is renowned worldwide for its blend of cultural opulence and historic charm. It covers three iconic Indian cities: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, offering a taste of India’s royal heritage, architectural wonders, and vibrant traditions. Each destination reveals a different facet of India’s rich history, making it a captivating journey for travelers seeking a comprehensive cultural experience.
Starting in Delhi, visitors encounter a mix of modernity and Mughal-era architecture, with landmarks like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar. Agra, the next stop, is home to the breathtaking Taj Mahal, a global symbol of love, along with the magnificent Agra Fort, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Finally, Jaipur, the ‘Pink City,’ offers a royal experience with its palaces, forts, and bustling markets, including the Amber Fort and the City Palace.
What sets this tour apart is the luxury element, where travelers can choose opulent trains like the Palace on Wheels, which provide a royal treatment onboard. The combination of lavish accommodations, curated itineraries, and historical narratives ensures a seamless blend of comfort and discovery, making the Luxury Golden Triangle Tour an unforgettable experience. This perfect mix of history, heritage, and luxury explains its global popularity.
The Palace on Wheels not only offers a Luxury Golden Triangle tour, covering Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, but also extends the royal experience to other iconic destinations in India. Luxury travelers can immerse themselves in the wilderness of Sawai Madhopur’s Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, admire the serene lakes of Udaipur, and explore the golden sands of Jaisalmer. The journey continues to the historic forts of Jodhpur and the rich birdlife of Bharatpur. Onboard, indulge in lavish suites, gourmet dining, and impeccable service. This opulent train seamlessly blends heritage and comfort, providing a regal exploration of India’s most celebrated cities and beyond.
Facilities on the Palace on Wheels
Luxurious Guest Carriages
Imagine stepping into a world of regal elegance aboard the Palace on Wheels. Each guest carriage is thoughtfully designed to mirror the classic charm of the private salons once used by Maharajas, Nizams, and Viceroys of India. Here, modern comforts blend seamlessly with historical opulence. Inside your spacious cabin, you’ll find a peaceful haven where you can unwind, indulge in a good read, or simply gaze out of the large panoramic windows as breathtaking landscapes drift by. It’s not just a journey; it’s an experience of luxury, tailored for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Gourmet Dining
Onboard the Palace on Wheels, a team of skilled chefs passionately crafts gourmet meals in two elegant dining cars. Each dish reflects the rich flavors of Royal Rajputana cuisine, prepared with fresh local ingredients to ensure authenticity. From savory delicacies to traditional favorites, every meal is designed to be as unforgettable as the journey itself, offering travelers not just a taste of India, but a true royal dining experience.
Rejuvenation and Relaxation
The Palace on Wheels promises an indulgent journey with its exclusive Spa Car, Lounge Car, and Bar Car, redefining luxury travel. The Spa Car invites you to rejuvenate with a selection of Ayurvedic treatments, soothing massages, and holistic therapies, creating a serene escape on wheels. Meanwhile, the Lounge Car offers a cozy retreat for unwinding with a book or enjoying a quiet moment, while the Bar Car serves as a vibrant space to sip on premium beverages and engage in delightful conversations. It’s all about enjoying the finer moments, surrounded by luxury and comfort.
Arrival Kit
As you step aboard the Palace on Wheels, you are greeted with a glass of fine wine, setting the tone for an exquisite journey ahead. To ensure a comfortable start, each guest receives a thoughtfully curated arrival kit, complete with stationery, informative brochures, and other essentials. It’s a warm welcome that blends hospitality with the elegance of luxury travel, making you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
Dedicated Attendant (Khidmatgar)
Throughout your journey on the Palace on Wheels, a dedicated personal attendant, known as a Khidmatgar, is at your service. Attentive to every detail, the Khidmatgar ensures all your needs are met, from in-cabin requests to travel arrangements, providing a truly personalized experience. With their warm and thoughtful service, you can relax and enjoy the journey, knowing that every aspect of your comfort is expertly taken care of.
Entertainment and Connectivity
The Palace on Wheels ensures a delightful journey with a range of indoor games to keep you entertained. Whether you prefer a challenging game of chess, a classic carom board match, solving crossword puzzles, playing cards, or trying your hand at Chinese checkers, there’s something for everyone. For those who wish to stay connected, the train also offers Wi-Fi and access to laptops, blending leisure with connectivity to the outside world, all while you travel in style.
Medical Aid and News Updates
Your well-being is a top priority on the Palace on Wheels, with medical assistance readily available throughout the journey. Should the need arise, a doctor can be arranged at any stop upon request, ensuring peace of mind as you travel. To keep you informed and entertained, daily newspapers and magazines are delivered each morning alongside your tea, allowing you to start your day with the latest news or a leisurely read in the comfort of your cabin.
Royal Spa
The onboard spa of the Palace on Wheels offers a haven of relaxation, featuring a variety of therapeutic massages and rejuvenating treatments. After an eventful day of sightseeing, indulge in these soothing experiences designed to melt away fatigue and restore your energy. With skilled therapists and a serene ambiance, the spa provides the perfect retreat for unwinding, allowing you to continue your journey refreshed and revitalized.
Security and Special Features
Safety and comfort are top priorities on the Palace on Wheels, with robust measures in place to protect both guests and their personal belongings. Each guest salon offers a cozy sitting lounge, complete with comfortable sofas, a television, DVD players, and a selection of magazines. It’s the perfect setting to relax, catch up on a movie, or simply unwind after a day of exploration, all while enjoying peace of mind with the train’s well-planned safety arrangements.
Additional Amenities
The Palace on Wheels ensures a comfortable and convenient journey with thoughtful amenities for every guest:
- Voltage: The train provides dual voltage options of 110V and 230V, catering to various electronic devices.
- Wheelchair Assistance: Special arrangements are in place for differently-abled guests, including wheelchairs, crèches, and attendants, ensuring a seamless experience for all.
- Smoking: In accordance with Indian regulations, smoking is prohibited in all public areas. For more information or guidance, guests can reach out to the tour manager.
- Souvenir Shop: Onboard, you’ll find a charming souvenir shop offering a variety of handicrafts, traditional artifacts, ethnic attire, and unique curios, perfect for taking a piece of your royal journey home.
Other Facilities
Baggage Allowance
To ensure a comfortable experience in your cabin, we recommend adhering to international airline baggage guidelines for first or business class. Since storage space is limited, soft-topped luggage is suggested, making it easier to stow away and access throughout your journey.
Bar & Lounge
The bar aboard the Palace on Wheels offers an exquisite selection of house-brand wines, spirits, and beers, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation. Enjoy complimentary snacks as you unwind with fellow travelers, making this the ideal setting for engaging conversations after a day of exploration.
Butlers
Experience true royal hospitality with a dedicated team of English-speaking butlers, available around the clock. These attentive professionals ensure that your every need is met promptly, offering personalized service that enhances the luxury of your journey.
Cabins
The 14 guest carriages, adorned with Rajputana-inspired motifs, reflect the elegance of India’s regal heritage. Each cabin is equipped with modern comforts such as live TV, air conditioning, internet connectivity, channel music, personal safes, and attached bathrooms, ensuring a delightful blend of tradition and luxury.
Cell Phones
To maintain a peaceful ambiance, we request that guests keep their cell phones on silent mode while on board or during off-train excursions. For privacy and comfort, the use of phones and laptops is limited to personal cabins.
Crew
The Palace on Wheels boasts a team of well-trained, English-speaking staff dedicated to offering not just prompt service but thoughtful attention. They are committed to anticipating your needs, ensuring a seamless and memorable travel experience.
Dining
The two elegant restaurants on board, Maharaja and Maharani, present a diverse culinary journey, offering Indian, Rajasthani, and European delicacies. Each restaurant has its own unique style and ambiance, promising a delightful dining experience at every meal.
Dress Code
We recommend smart casual attire and comfortable walking shoes for off-train excursions. For wildlife tours, natural and muted colors are preferred to blend into the environment. If you’re traveling during the winter months, warm clothing is advised.
Guides
Expert English-speaking guides accompany all off-train excursions, providing insightful commentary on historic sites and cultural landmarks. If needed, language-specific guides are available at an additional cost, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience for every guest.
Health & Safety
While no specific vaccinations are required for traveling to India, a Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate is necessary for those arriving from affected regions. Malaria precautions are advisable, so consult with your physician beforehand and carry any necessary medications to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Laundry Services
Limited laundry facilities are available at select destinations. For details or assistance, please reach out to your carriage butler, who will be happy to arrange it for you.
Minimum Passenger Requirement
The Palace on Wheels operates with a minimum passenger requirement. Should the journey not meet this number, alternative arrangements or refunds will be provided, with at least 30 days’ advance notice, ensuring your plans are never disrupted.
Off-Train Excursions
For off-train explorations, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as some roads may be uneven. A reasonable level of physical fitness is needed to fully enjoy the excursions, which offer an immersive experience of the destinations.
Porter Services
To make your journey effortless, porters are available at every embarkation and disembarkation point, assisting you with luggage handling.
Pre & Post Accommodation
We advise guests to book at least one night of hotel accommodation before and after the train journey for a more relaxed travel schedule. Our team can help arrange these accommodations for a seamless experience.
Smoking Policy
In accordance with Indian regulations, smoking is prohibited in all public areas. Guests wishing to smoke can coordinate with the train captain to access designated smoking areas.
Spa Services
The onboard spa offers a luxurious range of rejuvenating treatments performed by professional therapists. Indulge in Ayurvedic massages and wellness therapies, ensuring a relaxing retreat while on the move.
Special Dietary Needs
If you have specific dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking. Our team will ensure your dining experience is tailored to your preferences throughout the journey.
Tariff Exclusions
The tariff does not cover optional tours, taxes, insurance, gratuities, telephone calls, laundry, alcoholic beverages (except house brands), camera fees, and arrival and departure transfers. International and domestic air tickets, pre and post-tour accommodations, and tour extensions are also not included unless specified.
What the Tariff Covers
The Palace on Wheels offers an all-inclusive experience that ensures comfort and ease. Your tariff includes:
- Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious double or twin-bedded cabins, each with an en-suite bathroom, designed to provide a cozy retreat.
- Dining: All meals, along with soft beverages, are included, allowing you to indulge in gourmet cuisine throughout your journey.
- Butler Service: A dedicated butler is always on hand to cater to your needs, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Excursions: Guided off-train excursions with entrance fees, camera fees, and air-conditioned transfers are part of the package, giving you a seamless experience of exploring India’s heritage.
- Refreshments: Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and mineral water whenever you wish.
- Porter Charges: Porter services at stations are covered, ensuring easy handling of your luggage.
Telephone Calls
While cabins are equipped with telephones for convenience, please note that external calls will be charged separately.
Gratuities
Gratuities for off-train guides, escorts, and onboard staff are included in your journey cost. Guests are welcome to offer additional gratuities if they wish, at their own discretion, as a gesture of appreciation.
Transportation
Air-conditioned coach transfers are provided for all off-train excursions, offering a comfortable journey between destinations. Detailed transportation plans are available in your itinerary, ensuring clarity at every step.
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend guests carry personal travel insurance from their home country to cover illness, injury, luggage loss, cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Additionally, passengers are covered by an onboard insurance policy for unexpected incidents like fire, earthquake, theft, or terrorism.
Wheelchair Access
To accommodate physically challenged guests, the train provides wheelchairs, crèches, and a dedicated attendant. Please inform us of any special requirements during booking, so we can make the necessary arrangements.
The Palace on Wheels Train Route: 7 Nights / 8 Days
Take a royal trip through the magical land of Rajasthan aboard the Palace on Wheels. Over 7 nights and 8 days, you’ll immerse yourself in the rich history and splendor of the Maharajas. This luxury private tour of India gives you an unforgettable journey through Rajasthan’s most famous spots.
Day 1 (Wednesday): New Delhi Departure
Arrive at Safdarjung Railway Station by 4:30 PM, where you’ll receive a warm, traditional welcome with garlands, tikka, and a turban. After checking in, take part in a photo session with the Palace on Wheels staff, dressed in their stunning traditional outfits. A personal attendant will guide you to your saloon cabin and explain its amenities. Unwind in the Bar Lounge with a complimentary welcome drink before the train departs at 6:30 PM. Dinner will be served onboard as your exciting journey begins.
Day 2 (Thursday): Jaipur, The Pink City
Jaipur is an important destination of the Luxury Golden Triangle tour. Start your day with breakfast onboard the Palace on Wheels, then arrive at Jaipur Railway Station to a royal elephant welcome. Dive into the rich heritage of the Pink City, starting with visits to the St. Albert Museum, the grand City Palace, and the fascinating Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, stop for photos at the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) before heading to the stunning Amber Fort, another UNESCO site. You’ll ride an elephant up the fort’s steep paths, enjoying amazing views. For lunch, indulge in royal flavors at the 1135 AD Boutique Restaurant inside the fort. In the afternoon, explore Amber Fort’s well-preserved courtyards, a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. By 5:00 PM, visit the lively local markets for some shopping before returning to the train at 6:00 PM. Dinner will be served onboard as the Palace on Wheels moves on to its next stop.
Day 3 (Friday): Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve
Start your day early with a 6:30 AM jungle safari at Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, one of India’s top wildlife sanctuaries. Hop on a 15-seater canter and explore the diverse wildlife, including majestic tigers, panthers, sloth bears, and more. You might also see marsh crocodiles, deer, and a variety of birds, making this a perfect spot for nature lovers.
After the safari, head back to Sawai Madhopur Railway Station by 10:00 AM to reboard the Palace on Wheels. Enjoy lunch onboard as the train continues its journey, blending adventure with luxury—one of the true highlights of a private tour in India.
Day 3 (Friday Afternoon): Chittorgarh Hill Fort
At 4:00 PM, the Palace on Wheels arrives at Chittorgarh Railway Station, where you’ll set off to explore the magnificent Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning a large plateau, this historic 11th-century fort is known as the largest in India.
In the evening, enjoy a captivating Sound & Light show within the fort, which brings its rich history to life. After the show, return to the train for dinner. The Palace on Wheels will depart just after midnight, continuing your luxurious journey through India’s royal heritage.
Day 4 (Saturday): Udaipur, the City of Lakes
The Palace on Wheels reaches Udaipur by 8:00 AM. After enjoying a delicious breakfast onboard, begin your day with a visit to the grand City Palace, a 17th-century marvel. This impressive palace complex has eleven Mahals with stunning balconies, towers, and cupolas. A visit to the Crystal Gallery, showcasing the Maharaja of Udaipur’s personal collection, adds an extra touch of luxury to your experience.
Next, take a scenic boat ride around the iconic Lake Palace Hotel, which sits on a small island in the middle of Lake Pichola. Lunch will be served at the luxurious Fatehprakash Palace Hotel. In the afternoon, explore the lively local markets and the serene Royal Gardens at Saheliyon Ki Bari.
By 3:00 PM, return to the train to continue your journey. It’s a perfect day of relaxation and discovery, part of the luxury private tour experience in India. Dinner will be served onboard as the train heads to the next destination.
Day 5 (Sunday): Jaisalmer, Oasis in the Desert
Start your day with breakfast onboard the Palace on Wheels, then head out at 9:30 AM to explore Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 15th-century fort stands 100 meters above Jaisalmer town, glowing golden in the afternoon sun. Walking through its grand gates into the courtyard feels like stepping into a scene from Arabian Nights.
Next, visit the beautifully carved Patwon ki Haveli, one of Jaisalmer’s largest and most stunning mansions. Nearby, explore the 15th-century Jain Temples, famous for their intricate carvings and ancient manuscripts.
After lunch at a 5-star hotel, return to the train for a short break. At 4:30 PM, venture to the Sam sand dunes in the Thar Desert for a sunset camel ride. The evening ends with a cultural program and dinner at a luxurious hotel. By 10:00 PM, you’ll be back on the train as it departs for the next destination. This day is a perfect mix of heritage, adventure, and comfort, making it a highlight of luxury private tours in India.
Day 6 (Monday): Jodhpur, Heart of Marwar
The Palace on Wheels arrives in Jodhpur at 8:00 AM. After breakfast onboard, start your day with a visit to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. Built in the 16th century, this towering fort stands 125 meters above the town, offering breathtaking views of Jodhpur. As you walk through its angled gateways, built to defend against enemy attacks, you’ll enter a series of grand palaces and spacious courtyards. Inside, the museum showcases royal attire and medieval weaponry, giving a glimpse into the past.
Nearby is Jaswant Thada, a peaceful collection of royal cenotaphs made of white marble, built in the late 19th century. You’ll also explore the museum at Umaid Bhawan Palace, which houses personal artifacts of the Maharaja of Jodhpur.
Enjoy lunch at the charming Hanwant Mahal Boutique Restaurant before returning to the train. The Palace on Wheels departs at 3:30 PM, continuing your luxurious journey. Dinner will be served onboard, concluding a day filled with history and elegance.
Day 7 (Tuesday Early Morning): Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Begin your day bright and early at 6:30 AM with a visit to Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a relaxing cycle rickshaw ride through the sanctuary and see some of the 375 species of birds, both local and migratory, from places like Sri Lanka, Europe, and Siberia. After this peaceful outing, return to the train for breakfast, and get ready to depart by 8:45 AM.
Day 7 (Tuesday Noon): Agra, City of the Taj Mahal
Agra, the main destination of the Luxury Golden Triangle tour, welcomes you with its rich Mughal heritage. Arriving near Agra by 10:30 AM, your day begins with a visit to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former home of the mighty Mughal rulers. After a delicious lunch at the ITC Mughal Hotel, you’ll head to the world-famous Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This breathtaking white marble masterpiece is a must-see.
Day 8 (Wednesday): Return to New Delhi
The Palace on Wheels arrives back at Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station early in the morning, reaching by 5:30 AM. After savoring a final breakfast onboard, guests are expected to check out by 7:15 AM, concluding their luxurious journey through India’s iconic destinations.
Please note that the onboard management may adjust tour timings as needed based on local logistics, and any off-board meals listed at specific hotels or restaurants are subject to change. This smooth and convenient end to your tour highlights the level of comfort and care that luxury private tours in India provide.
