The Palace on Wheels is the oldest and most popular of India's luxury trains. It's been operating since 1982 and is rated one of the ten best luxurious train journeys in the world. A trip on this train is like taking a step back in time as you meander through Rajasthan. You'll travel through the night to different cities, and have the day to explore them.
Palace on Wheels Features:
The train has 14 carriages, all individually named after a city in the desert state of Rajasthan. Their interiors are authentic historic replicas of the coaches once owned by former kings of Rajasthan. In addition, the Palace on Wheels has two restaurants and a bar lounge area where guests can relax and enjoy the passing scenery. The train is decorated in rich traditional style, including draped curtains, hand crafted lights, and Rajasthani art.
Palace on Wheels Route and Itinerary:
Departs Wednesdays at 4 p.m. from Delhi and visits Jaipur,
Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Bharatpur and Agra.
Palace on Wheels Journey Duration:
Seven nights. The train arrives back in Delhi at 6 a.m. the following Wednesday.
Palace on Wheels Cost:
$419 per person, per night, based on double occupancy from October to March. $322 per person, per night, based on double occupancy during September and April. The total for the seven night journey is around $3,000 per person, or $2,250 during the two low season months. Rates include accommodation, meals, sightseeing tours, entrance fees to monuments, and cultural entertainment. Service charges and alcohol are additional.
Palace on Wheels Reservations:
You can make a reservation for travel on the Palace on Wheels by visiting the Rajasthan government's tourism website: www.rajasthantourism.gov.in. Travel agents also make reservations.
Palace on Wheels Information:
The Palace on Wheels runs from September until the end of April each year. It stops during the very hot and monsoon months. The train is very popular, so you should reserve your place early as possible because vacancies are limited. The train is apparently fully booked until 2010.
