Luxury Package Holidays: Explore the Palace on Wheels
The Palace on Wheels is more than just a train—it’s a rolling royal experience! Designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life, this luxurious train lets travelers explore India in the most regal manner possible. With its opulent interiors, personalized service, and gourmet dining, the Palace on Wheels offers a true taste of royalty as it rolls through Rajasthan’s iconic landscapes, making it one of the finest Luxury Package Holidays available.
Once aboard, you’ll be surrounded by elegance at every step. Spacious cabins, each with their own lavish decor, are equipped with modern comforts while preserving a timeless charm. Enjoy delectable multi-cuisine meals in vintage-style dining cars, sip fine wines in the plush lounge, and pamper yourself in the onboard spa. As the train stops at historic destinations, passengers can explore grand forts, stunning palaces, and vibrant bazaars.
This all-inclusive Luxury Package Holidays experience ensures that travelers can unwind without any hassle. The Palace on Wheels is perfect for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and lavishness. It’s not just a trip; it’s an immersive, once-in-a-lifetime journey where you travel like a Maharaja.
History of Palace on Wheels Luxury Train
India’s iconic Palace on Wheels brings a blend of heritage and modern comfort, making it one of the most sought-after luxury package holidays for those looking to explore Rajasthan. The journey features cozy AC sleeping cabins and organized daytime sightseeing tours in air-conditioned buses, making it the ultimate way to discover Rajasthan in style.
Originally, these opulent coaches were used by the royals of princely states like Rajputana, Gujarat, and the Nizam of Hyderabad, even serving the Viceroy of British India. After independence, these regal coaches were retired until 1981-82 when Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways revived them as the Palace on Wheels, offering tourists a majestic travel experience.
Inspired by its royal legacy, the train’s interiors have been updated over the years to ensure a comfortable, modern journey without losing its classic elegance. The late 1980s saw a shift to meter-gauge with shared bathrooms, while 1996 brought a broad-gauge version featuring private bathrooms for each cabin. In 2017, the train was upgraded again, introducing spacious Deluxe and Super Deluxe Cabins, offering guests more comfort on their luxury holiday through Rajasthan.
Palace On Wheels Coaches
The Palace on Wheels train brings the rich legacy of Rajasthan alive, with each coach named after a historic princely state, like Alwar, Bharatpur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Designed to reflect the region’s heritage, each of the 14 guest coaches is crafted with ethnic Rajasthani décor, creating an authentic ambiance throughout your journey. The luxurious cabins in each coach are equipped with modern amenities, including channel music, 24-hour hot and cold water, a shower, attached toilet, intercom, and plush carpeting—ensuring a relaxing travel experience.
Each saloon also features a personal attendant, the ‘Khidmatgar,’ who provides round-the-clock service, ensuring every need is met with personalized attention. Additionally, the mini pantry and lounge within each coach offer a cozy spot for guests to unwind. The lounge is equipped with a television, DVD player, and a small library, providing a comfortable space to enjoy refreshments, socialize, and relax. Whether it’s sipping on hot or cold beverages or sharing stories with fellow travelers, the Palace on Wheels delivers an experience that perfectly blends the essence of Rajasthan with modern comfort—making it one of the best choices for Luxury Package Holidays.
Experience the charm of Rajasthan aboard the Palace on Wheels, where each of its 14 luxurious guest coaches is named after iconic princely states and cities like Alwar, Bharatpur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Every coach is a visual treat, reflecting the distinct elegance and cultural heritage of its namesake region.
Inside each saloon, you’ll find a mini pantry and a cozy lounge, complete with a television, DVD player, and a small library—ideal for unwinding during your journey. Whether you’re sipping on a refreshing cold drink or enjoying a warm cup of tea, this space invites guests to relax and socialize. It’s an intimate, enjoyable setting designed to offer a delightful escape as you explore Rajasthan’s grandeur through our Luxury Package Holidays.
Facilities on the Palace on Wheels
Luxurious Guest Carriages
The Palace on Wheels offers modern amenities with a touch of royal elegance. Each carriage mirrors the grandeur of the private salons once used by India’s Maharajas, Nizams, and Viceroys. Inside these serene cabins, guests can unwind, read a book, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views through panoramic windows as part of their Luxury Package Holidays experience.
Gourmet Dining
Onboard chefs serve delightful meals in two elegant dining cars, emphasizing local ingredients and traditional recipes for an authentic Royal Rajputana culinary experience. Every meal is a journey in itself, making Luxury Package Holidays a feast for the senses.
Rejuvenation and Relaxation
The train offers a Spa Car, Lounge Car, and Bar Car to ensure a complete luxury experience. The Spa Car provides Ayurvedic treatments and relaxing massages, while the Lounge and Bar Cars are perfect for unwinding with a drink or good company.
Warm Welcome & Arrival Kit
Upon boarding, guests are greeted with a welcome drink and an arrival kit filled with essentials like stationery, brochures, and useful information to ensure a smooth journey.
Personalized Service with Dedicated Attendants
A personal attendant, known as a Khidmatgar, is always available to meet every need of the guests. The dedicated service adds a personal touch to the luxury train experience, ensuring all your requirements are well taken care of.
Entertainment and Connectivity
Enjoy a range of indoor games like chess, crossword puzzles, and more, while staying connected with onboard Wi-Fi and laptops. Whether it’s relaxing or keeping up with the world, the Palace on Wheels has you covered.
Medical Assistance and News Updates
Medical help is readily available, with a doctor accessible at any stop upon request. Guests are kept informed with daily newspapers and magazines delivered to their cabins along with morning tea.
Royal Spa Experience
The onboard spa offers rejuvenating massages to help guests relax after a day of sightseeing, adding another layer of comfort to the journey.
Security and Special Features
The train ensures a high level of safety, with each salon featuring a cozy lounge, complete with sofas, TV, DVD player, and magazines, making it a secure haven on wheels.
Additional Amenities
- Voltage: Both 110V and 230V are available.
- Wheelchair Assistance: Special help, including wheelchairs and attendants, is provided for differently-abled guests.
- Smoking Policy: Smoking is not allowed in public places in India. Guests can reach out to the tour manager for guidance.
- Souvenir Shop: The onboard shop offers a variety of handicrafts, traditional artifacts, and ethnic dresses for those looking to take a piece of the journey home.
Experience a Truly Regal Journey with Luxury Package Holidays
Baggage Allowance Pack smart for your journey, as cabin storage is limited. We recommend soft-topped luggage, making it easier to store. Follow international airline baggage guidelines for first or business class to avoid any inconvenience.
Bar & Lounge Unwind at the onboard bar, where a selection of wines, spirits, and beer is served alongside complimentary snacks. It’s the perfect setting for socializing and adding a touch of joy to your Luxury Package Holidays experience.
Butlers A dedicated team of English-speaking butlers is available around the clock, ready to cater to your needs with a personal touch. Enjoy a seamless, high-quality service throughout your journey.
Cabins The Palace on Wheels features 14 elegantly designed guest carriages, inspired by Rajputana motifs. Each cabin offers modern comforts, including live television, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, music, safes, and en-suite bathrooms.
Cell Phones To maintain a peaceful ambiance, guests are kindly asked to keep cell phones on silent mode while on board. Cell phone and laptop usage should be limited to private cabins to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Crew The experienced, English-speaking crew aims to provide exceptional service, not just meeting but anticipating guests’ needs, ensuring a delightful journey.
Dining Savor a variety of cuisines in the two onboard restaurants, Maharaja and Maharani, offering everything from European to Indian and Rajasthani dishes, each served in an elegant setting.
Dress Code Opt for smart casuals on board and comfortable walking shoes for excursions. Natural, muted colors are recommended for wildlife tours, while warm clothing is suggested for winter journeys.
Guides Professional, English-speaking guides accompany guests on off-train excursions, providing fascinating insights into each destination. Language-specific guides can be arranged upon request at an additional cost.
Health Precautions No specific vaccinations are required for visiting India, but a Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate is necessary if arriving from affected countries. Take precautions for malaria and consult a doctor before traveling.
Laundry Services Limited laundry services are available at select stops. For details, please contact your carriage butler.
Minimum Passenger Requirement A minimum number of passengers is required for each journey. If this is not met, alternative arrangements or refunds will be provided with at least 30 days’ notice.
Off-Train Excursions Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as some roads may be uneven. A moderate level of physical fitness will enhance your enjoyment of the tours.
Porters Porters are available at every embarkation and disembarkation point to assist with your luggage.
Pre & Post Hotel Stays We recommend booking at least one night’s stay before and after the train journey to ensure a smooth experience. This can be arranged by our team.
Smoking Policy Smoking is prohibited in public places in India. For designated smoking areas, guests can consult the train captain.
Spa The onboard spa offers rejuvenating treatments by professional therapists, providing a luxurious and relaxing experience during your journey.
Special Dietary Needs Please mention any special dietary requirements at the time of booking, so we can cater to your needs during the journey.
Tariff Excludes The tariff does not include optional tours, taxes, insurance, gratuities, international and domestic flights, laundry, alcoholic drinks (except house brands), camera fees, or transfers.
Tariff Includes The tariff covers double/twin cabins with en-suite bathrooms, meals, soft beverages, butler service, guided excursions, entrance fees, transportation, tea, coffee, and mineral water, along with porter charges.
Telephone Calls Each cabin is equipped with telephones. External call charges will be billed separately.
Tipping Gratuities for guides, staff, and escorts are included. However, additional tips are welcome at the guest’s discretion.
Transportation Air-conditioned coaches are provided for off-train excursions, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Travel Insurance Guests are encouraged to carry personal insurance covering illness, injury, loss, and holiday cancellation. Additional coverage is provided for unforeseen events like fire or theft.
Wheelchair Access Special facilities, including wheelchairs and personal attendants, are available for differently-abled passengers. Please mention any requirements at booking for proper arrangements.
Embark on this magnificent journey with Luxury Package Holidays, where every detail ensures a royal and comfortable experience!
The Palace on Wheels: A Royal Experience through Rajasthan
07 Nights / 08 Days
Set off on an extraordinary journey aboard the Palace on Wheels, where you’ll explore the enchanting landscapes of Rajasthan, traveling in the same style as the Maharajas of the past. This journey reveals Rajasthan’s rich culture and heritage, offering a seamless blend of comfort and luxury.
The Palace on Wheels departs every Wednesday evening from New Delhi and returns the following Wednesday morning. Covering over 3,000 kilometers (1,850 miles) over 7 nights and 8 days, this journey is filled with elegance and grandeur, making it a perfect part of Luxury Package Holidays.
With 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 Super Deluxe Cabins, the Palace on Wheels can host up to 82 passengers. This journey is all about reliving the royal charm of India’s desert heartland, offering an unforgettable experience filled with historical tales and stunning views.
Day 1: Departure from New Delhi
Step aboard the Palace on Wheels and start your journey from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi. Arrive by 4:30 PM, where you’ll be greeted with a traditional welcome, complete with garlands, tikka, and a turban. Your personal attendant will guide you to your luxurious cabin, providing a briefing about the amenities. Enjoy a welcome drink in the Bar Lounge before departure at 6:30 PM. Dinner will be served onboard, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Day 2: Jaipur, The Pink City
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast onboard before arriving in Jaipur. Get ready for a royal welcome, complete with elephants at the station. Explore the St. Albert Museum, Pink City Palace, and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Amber Fort and enjoy an elephant ride up the ramparts. After lunch at the 1135 AD Boutique Restaurant, explore the local market for souvenirs. Return to the train by 6 PM and enjoy dinner onboard as you continue your Luxury Package Holidays.
Day 3: Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve and Chittorgarh Hill Fort
Morning Safari:
Start your day early with a jungle safari at Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. Discover tigers, panthers, sloth bears, and other wildlife before returning to the train for lunch.
Afternoon Excursion:
Arrive at Chittorgarh Hill Fort by 4 PM, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about its rich history and enjoy the evening Sound & Light show. Board the train for dinner and depart post-midnight.
Day 4: Udaipur, the City of Lakes
After breakfast, explore Udaipur’s 17th-century City Palace, Crystal Gallery, and take a serene boat ride around Lake Pichola. Enjoy lunch at Fatehprakash Palace Hotel and a visit to Saheliyon Ki Bari. Return to the train by 3 PM for dinner and continue your journey.
Day 5: Jaisalmer, Oasis in the Desert
After breakfast, visit the UNESCO-listed Jaisalmer Fort, a majestic 15th-century structure. Explore Patwon Ki Haveli and Jain Temples, and savor lunch at a 5-star hotel. By afternoon, experience a camel ride at Sam Sand Dunes, followed by a cultural performance and dinner. Return to the train by 10 PM.
Day 6: Jodhpur, Heart of Marwar
Arrive in Jodhpur by 8 AM. Visit Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, and Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, followed by lunch at Hanwant Mahal Boutique Restaurant. Return to the train by 3:30 PM and continue your journey, with dinner served onboard.
Day 7: Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and Agra
Start your morning with a visit to Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. After breakfast, proceed to Agra to explore the iconic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Savor lunch at ITC Mughal Hotel before returning to the train for dinner.
Day 8: Return to New Delhi
Arrive back at Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station by 5:30 AM. Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before check-out at 7:15 AM, concluding your magnificent journey.
This royal adventure on the Palace on Wheels is truly a part of Luxury Package Holidays, designed to create lasting memories filled with elegance, comfort, and the majestic spirit of Rajasthan.
