Palace On Wheels: The Train
Group | 8 Days / 7 Nights
£3270 Onwards
The Palace on Wheels is a luxury tourist train. It was launched by the Indian Railways & 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. It was voted the 4th luxurious train in the world in 2010.
Palace On Wheels: The Train
New Delhi * Jaipur * Sawai Madhopur * Chittorgarh * Udaipur * Jaisalmer * Jodhpur * Bharatpur * Agra * Delhi
Palace On Wheels
Itinerary
Dates & Prices
Location Map
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Palace On Wheels
We welcome you aboard to "Re-live" the Royal Experience of the Maharajas of Rajasthan and if you are really looking for a holiday of a lifetime, the Palace On Wheels is for you.
The passenger coaches which were originally meant to be the personal railway coaches of the erstwhile rulers of princely states of Rajputana, Gujarat, the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Viceroy of British India. These coaches were not being used by the Indian Railways after independence in normal passenger trains on account of very rich and traditional interiors.
The name "Palace on Wheels" was derived from its royal back-ground of the coaches. A new meter gauge air conditioned Palace-on-Wheels was introduced in 1984 & had 13 Saloons, 2 Restaurant cum Kitchen car, one Bar cum Lounge and 4 Service Cars. In order to further increase the amenities on the train and due to over all gauge conversion in the state, a new broad gauge Palace-on-Wheels has been constructed & has been running since 1996. It's 14 Saloons are inter-connected, the interiors of the saloons reflect the aesthetics of the former Royal states of Rajasthan. The exquisite and exclusive Palace on Wheels has luxurious Cabins, wall to wall carpeting, a well stocked bar, two dining cars (The Maharaja and Maharani) and a very personalized service... in fact, almost everything that could comprise of heaven on earth for seven days!
In the past 20 years of operations, the Palace on Wheels has been rated as one of the best ten luxurious rail journeys in the world.
Departure Day: Every Wednesday
Day 1 - Wednesday - New Delhi
The journey of a lifetime begins at the Delhi Safdarjung Railway station where the guests are accorded a warm, traditional welcome before the Palace-on-Wheels pulls out into the night for a week-long luxury cruise through fascinating Rajasthan.
Reporting Time 18.00 hrs. Dep. 18.30 hrs.
Day 2 - Thursday - Jaipur
The first stop of the Palace-on-Wheels is Jaipur, one of the most well planned cities of the world of its time. This capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City,was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727 A.D.
To explore the city, an air-conditioned coach takes you to Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds, which is a remarkable five storied building a one the main street of the old city in pink splendor with semi-octagonal and delicate honey combed sandstone windows. This is followed by a visit to Amber Fort where elephant ride is available to climb up the hill. Lunch at a Five Star Hotel followed by visit to City Palace Museum and Observatory.
Arrival 03.45 hrs. Departure 20.00 hrs.
Day 3 - Friday - Sawai Madhopur
One can almost sense a life of the wilderness, as the Palace-on-Wheels arrives in Sawai Madhopur, a city named after its founder Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. After breakfast a visit is arranged to the Ranthambhor National Park, wherein are located the ruins of a 10th century fort. This wildlife sanctuary is considered to be the country's best for observing and photographing the activities of the tiger. The park, covering an area of 392 sq. kms. is home to more than 300 species of birds. The tiger, hyena, rate, jackal and fox are among those constituting the carnivorous population here. Sawai Madhopur is known for its excusive toys, ethnic ornaments and costumes. Upon return to the Palace-on-Wheels, you leave for Chittorgarh, when one gets an opportunity to watch the colourful countryside passing by in the daylight.
Arrival 05.30 hrs. Departure 10.20 hrs.
Day 3 - Friday - Chittorgarh
After lunch on board you are in Chittorgarh. Images of love and velour; scars of battles lost and won...thrice-besieged, Chittorgarh Fort is all this and more. Moving legends of honor and pride will echo in your mind as you proceed to Udaipur.
Arrival 16.00 hrs. Departure 02.00 hrs (next day i.e. on saturday)
Day 4 - Saturday - Udaipur
Udaipur, the Lake City, was founded by Maharana Udai Singh of Mewar, after the Sisodia dynasty was driven way by the Mughals, in 1559A.D. Perhaps the two most beautiful sites of Udaipur are the dream-like marble palaces- the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) and the Jag Mandir, which appear to rise from the blue waters of Lake Pichhola. After lunch at a Five Star Hotel, a visit to the City Palace.
Arrival 08:00 hrs. Departure 15.30 hrs.
Day 5 - Sunday - Jaisalmer
In the heart of the Thar desert lies Jaisalmer, founded by Rawal Jaisal,in 1 1 56 A.D. Here the yellow sandstone fort is an imposing sight,towering magnificently over the city. Discover the painstakingly latticed havelis or mansions with their grand facades. The Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli are fine examples of the stone carver's skill.Shop for fine pattu shawls ,mirror work and embroidered articles , wooden boxes , trinkets , silver jewellery and curios.
After lunch on board, go for an exciting camel ride on the sand dunes of Sam, before sipping a refreshing cup of tea. Enjoy the dinner and the cultural porgramme at a Five Star hotel.
Arrival 09.15 hrs. Departure 23.30 hrs.
Day 6 - Monday - Jodhpur
Next morning the Palace-on-Wheels is in Jodhpur, a city ringed by a high stone wall with seven gates and several bastions. This second largest city of Rajasthan, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 A.D. is known for its rock-solid Mehrangarh Fort. The grand palaces within -Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are impressive examples of architectural excellence. Near the fort complex lies Jaswant Thada, and a group of royal cenotaphs made of white marble. After lunch at a Palace hotel, return to the Palace-on-Wheels. While in Jodhpur shop for exquisite handicraft articles including the famous breeches, embroidered shoes, metal curios, silverware, paintings and tie and dye fabrics.
Arrival 07.00 hrs. Departure 16.30 hrs.
Day 7 - Tuesday - Bharatpur / Agra
Bharatpur
In the morning, the Palace on Wheels arrives in Bharatpur, the capital of Maharaja Suraj Mal . After breakfast pay a visit to the world famous bird sanctuary, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the nesting place for thousands of Egrets, Siberian Cranes, migratory Water Fowl and other species of birds.
Arrival 05.00 hrs.Departure 08:45
Agra
Upon arrival visit the Agra Fort and after lunch arrive at the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. A pristine monument of undying love. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. Agra is known for its splendid marble inlay work like the Pietra Dura work on the Taj, leather goods and jewellery.
Arrival 10:00 hrs Departure 19.30 hrs.
Day 8 - Wednesday - Delhi
Arrive at Delhi Safdarjung Railway station. Breakfast on board and let the pleasant memories of the past week linger on your mind for a long, long time.
Arrival 07.30 hrs.
* END OF THE TOUR *
* Subject to change
Dates & Prices
Months of operation:
The Palace on Wheels tour starts on every Wednesday of the week from New Delhi, from September untill April of the following year.
During summer and monsoon months (May to August), the train closes for maintenance.
Reporting time is 16:30 hrs at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station where a royal reception awaits you.
This prestigious train departs from Safdarjung Railway Station at 18:30 hrs.
Please note that owing to global popularity of the Palace on Wheels, it is always advisable to book your space well in advance to avoid any availability problem ahead.
Tariff
Valid from October 2013 to March 2014
Tour : 7 Nights/ 8 Days Tour
Occupancy Type Per Person/ Night 7 Nights Per Person
Single US$ 770 US$ 5390
Double US$ 575 US$ 4025
Triple US$ 520 US$ 3640
Valid for September 2013 & April 2014
Tour : 7 Nights/ 8 Days Tour
Occupancy Type Per Person/ Night 7 Nights Per Person
Single US$ 575 US$ 4025
Double US$ 430 US$ 3010
Triple US$ 390 US$ 2730
10% of the tariff for the children upto 5 years of age.
Half fare for children between 5 and 12 years of age.
(Age proof of children is to be furnished, which is required at the time of issuance of tickets)
Please note :-
• 10% Surcharge shall be levied on departure during Christmas/New Year.
• @ 3.09% Service Tax shall be levied on the tariff of Palace on Wheels.
• US$ 15 per pax per trip shall be charged against the payment of commercial taxes in addition to the tariff.
• No charter can be booked during X-Mas & New Year period.
• Tariff Subject to change without notice.
The Tariff includes :
Tariff is inclusive of travel/ catering/ conducted sightseeing/ entrance fee at monuments/ parks/ palaces/ cultural programs/ camel ride at Jaisalmer/ boat ride at Udaipur/ rickshaw ride at Bharatpur.
The Tariff does not include:
Drinks, tips, laundry, telephone calls, video camera fees, Business Car Facilities, liquor and other items of personal nature.
Booking Policy
In case of FITs:
• 50% of ticket value at the time of confirming the booking.
• Remaining 50% of ticket value 60 days prior to departure.
In case of Group:
• 50% of ticket value at the time of confirming the booking.
• Remaining 50% of ticket value 75 days prior to departure.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation must be advised by Fax/E-mail/Letter to The Luxury Trains. On cancellation, refund will be made. Certain amount of the ticket value will be deducted as follows.
In case of FITs
• 5% of ticket value 60 days or more prior to departure.
• 20% of ticket value between 59 to 30 days prior to departure.
• 100% of ticket value between less than 30 days prior to departure.
In case of Group
• 10% of ticket value 60 days prior to departure.
• 100% of ticket value between 0 to 59 days prior to departure.
* Train tariff / Tour Itinerary subject to change without notice.
Highlights
Jaipur, "The Pink City"
Founded in AD 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the Pink City with broad avenues and spacious gardens. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the maharajas. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, famous for Rajasthani jewellery, fabric and shoes, possess a timeless quality and are surely a treasure-trove for the shoppers. This fascinating city with its romantic charm takes you to an epoch of royalty and tradition. Once the capital city of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodhaji - chief of the Rathore Clan of Rajputs who claimed descent from Lord Rama. A major trade centre of 16th century, the city, today, has grown to become the second largest city of Rajasthan, retaining the medieval splendour.
Sawai Madhopur
Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh, the land of glory and valour is bound to leave you enchanted. The history of this captivating place is intriguing and spellbinding. The land of devotion and determination, Chittorgarh has produced some of the greatest devotees and courageous warriors in the history of India. Chittorgarh remains replete with historic associations and holds a very special place in the hearts of Rajputs, as it was a bastion of the clan at a time when every other stronghold had succumbed to invasion.
Chittorgarh Fort, the gigantic citadel was built in the seventh century and stands witness to chivalry, valour and honour postulated and lived by the Rajput rulers of that era. The fort is dotted with innumerable monuments and beautiful temples. The Vijay Stambh, tower of victory was erected by Rana Kumbha to mark his triumph over the Sultan of Gujarat. Here, you will revisit history where Rani Padmini along with other women performed the heroic act of Jauhar ― rather than being caught by the enemy, they took a plunge in fire. The sound and light show narrates the history of this majestic land to perfection and is a treat to witness.
Udaipur, the "City of Palaces"
Rajasthan's most romantic city, the "Eastern Venice", looks magical with its fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow streets. Everything is telling tales of the heroic past. Udaipur is a shopper’s paradise and has fine marble mementoes, miniature paintings and handicraft items. There are other exquisite attractions like the ballads and compositions woven in melody by artists in traditional Rajasthani style. Overall, the excursion to this overwhelming city is a true delight.
Jaisalmer
Khajuraho city is known
Jodhpur
Jodhpur, the land of majestic and mystic glory welcomes you. Currently, the second largest city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur was established in the year 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput king.
The weather in this erstwhile state is always bright and sunny, hence has earned another title of the Sun City. In this royal paradise, you will find the most ordinary houses on street sides with exquisite stonework, traceries and carved latticed windows. The panoramic view of the city in tones of blue appears like a painter’s masterstroke of indigo charm. You will be delighted to witness the charisma of the regal legacy at Jodhpur, especially at the Mehrangarh Fort. This majestic fort is one of the largest forts of India and still preserves the artefacts like royal cradles, palanquins, musical instruments of diverse backgrounds spread over centuries.
The magic of imperial living comes alive when you visit some of the finest specimen of Rajput architecture viz. the lavish Umaid Bhawan Palace.
The mesmerising royal charm has not left you untouched by now. You will begin the next regal escapade at Sawai Madhopur.The land of marvellous beauty, Udaipur is named after the dynamic ruler of this princely state, Rana Udai Singh. The scenic beauty of Udaipur has earned it various titles in superlatives. This City of Lakes has a long glorious history and is also considered as the romance city of Rajasthan with endless love sagas of its rulers.
Jag Niwas, the City Palace, one of the largest palaces in India, is an interesting blend of Rajput architecture and Mughal interiors that carve this fortress as a distinctive structure. The palace also homes a well-maintained museum that upkeeps the armoury, costumes and other belongings of its rulers. The other captive interests in the mystic land are the Lake Palace, the Jag Mandir and numerous other forts and temples. A stunning masterpiece, Sahelion ki Bari also known as the ‘Garden of Maidens’ is a true delight to experience.
Bharatpur
Varanasi or Benarasi
The Taj Mahal, the seventh wonder of the world
The famous symbol of love was built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. It took 22 years to compete this mausoleum, which is entirely built from white marble. This building is an unforgettable sight, not exclusively for lovers.
Online reservation request
Kindly take a few moments to fill up the form below enabling us to give you a detailed feedback on your request. Any information, even if tentative, will help us a lot in proper planning of your tour.
Destination Information
India is a fascinating place , the land where many ethnic groups live in different cultures and natural surroundings of great beauty. India captivates and seduces like a delicate lover, anyone who visits. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the fertile valleys of the interior, through the tangled jungles and golden deserts , Hindus landscapes are simply breathtaking .
Located in South Asia , India occupies an area of ??3,287,263 sq km ( about six times Spain ) limiting to the west and northwest by Pakistan, on the north by China and Nepal to the northeast with Bhutan and Sikkim , east to Burma and to the south by the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean.
Entry Requirements
To obtain a visa to India send us need 20-30 days in advance:
- Original passport with 6 months validity and with so many p. blank as visas are required for the completion of the journey .
- 1 Original photograph with white background . Size : 3.90 x 5.01 cms. to 5 x 5 cm . ( maximum size ) .
- A copy of the form :
Fully completed through p. whose web address attached below.
Signed form in the top right ( under the picture ) and the lower right ( the end of the form) . equal to the signature on the passport.
The form registration number ( barcode) essential to the embassy accept the processing of visa will appear.
Indicate on the envelope, with all the information the pager number of the reservation
Cost of visa India
Spanish passengers visa 96 € . Processing time : 12 working days.
Visa foreign passengers : € 126. Processing time : 15 working days.
Urgent visa only for Spanish 150 € . Processing time : 3 days .
Instructions for completing the form
* Please note that the questions and form are unified access for everyone , with the outside Catai questions.
* In case of non-acceptance by incomplete form , missing data, photos, false signature or detect false answers the form will be rejected , requiring more time and amount for visa
In the web http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/ customers must complete all fields marked with an * Required .
traditions
Like many countries endowed with profound ancient culture and traditions , India generates Away feelings of wonder, beauty, luxury and comfort while it tries to understand his own culture contradictions, confusing streets and that a certain contempt to the material seriously contrasts with the luxuries perpetuated in palaces and buildings. Space, time and property are Hindus consider concepts from a different perspective and Westerners are not intended to change despite adapt in many ways similar to the foreign currency. An apparent inconsistency that visitors should try to understand to enjoy a full respect and a purer lifestyle to own country look.
gastronomy
If anything characterizes the cuisine of India is the fragrance and distinctive flavor of your spices . Up to twenty different ground spices are the essential tool to have Indian chefs to give your personal touch. Combinations of these spices seasonings so called masala.
One of the best known is the curry, currently used for years in many European countries. The word comes from the Indian curry kari , which means sauce spices. Curry is actually a blend of spices like ginger , coriander, turmeric , nutmeg , cardamom and poppy seed , but can also lead cloves and saffron. Another element widely used in Indian cuisine is yogurt , which is usually made mixed with sugar, or even a curry masala.
Areas of interest
Jodhpur
Jodhpur the second largest city of the state of Rajasthan is famous for its magnificent Meharangarh fort. Another example of Rajput glory is the Jaswant Thada built in 1899. Lunch at a hotel & dinner on board.
Udaipur, the "City of Palaces"
Rajasthan's most romantic city, the "Eastern Venice", looks magical with its fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow streets. Everything is telling tales of the heroic past.
Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore is most famous for its large tiger population. As tourism in the park increased, so did the population of neighboring villages. This lead to increasing amounts of fatal human-tiger interactions and poaching. The Indian Government started Project Tiger in 1972 with an allotted area of 60 m2. It was later expanded to become what is now called, the Ranthambore National Park. Besides tigers, the reserve has thriving bird population with more than 270 different species of birds here.
Jaipur, "The Pink City"
Founded in AD 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the Pink City with broad avenues and spacious gardens. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the maharajas. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, famous for Rajasthani jewellery, fabric and shoes, possess a timeless quality and are surely a treasure-trove for the shoppers. This fascinating city with its romantic charm takes you to an epoch of royalty and tradition. Once the capital city of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodhaji - chief of the Rathore Clan of Rajputs who claimed descent from Lord Rama. A major trade centre of 16th century, the city, today, has grown to become the second largest city of Rajasthan, retaining the medieval splendour.
Khajuraho, "City of Tamples"
Khajuraho city is known for housing the famous World Heritage Site - the Khajuraho temples. The temple town carries a great legacy of the bygone era and is one of the major tourist destination. The city nestles itself in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh. This thousand year old city of Khajuraho is the best watch on your heritage tour. The city has number of excursions which rangge from wildlife to enchanting waterfalls.
Varanasi, "The Holy City"
Varanasi or Benarasi in Hindi is the holiest city of India’s majority followers of Hindu religion one of the most important pilgrimage centers in India. It is situated on the west bank of holy Ganges. Also known as Banaras it is a major tourist attraction for those traveling to India.
The Taj Mahal, the seventh wonder of the world
The famous symbol of love was built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. It took 22 years to compete this mausoleum, which is entirely built from white marble. This building is an unforgettable sight, not exclusively for lovers.
Jodhpur
Jodhpur, the land of majestic and mystic glory welcomes you. Currently, the second largest city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur was established in the year 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput king.
The weather in this erstwhile state is always bright and sunny, hence has earned another title of the Sun City. In this royal paradise, you will find the most ordinary houses on street sides with exquisite stonework, traceries and carved latticed windows. The panoramic view of the city in tones of blue appears like a painter’s masterstroke of indigo charm. You will be delighted to witness the charisma of the regal legacy at Jodhpur, especially at the Mehrangarh Fort. This majestic fort is one of the largest forts of India and still preserves the artefacts like royal cradles, palanquins, musical instruments of diverse backgrounds spread over centuries.
The magic of imperial living comes alive when you visit some of the finest specimen of Rajput architecture viz. the lavish Umaid Bhawan Palace.
The mesmerising royal charm has not left you untouched by now. You will begin the next regal escapade at Sawai Madhopur.The land of marvellous beauty, Udaipur is named after the dynamic ruler of this princely state, Rana Udai Singh. The scenic beauty of Udaipur has earned it various titles in superlatives. This City of Lakes has a long glorious history and is also considered as the romance city of Rajasthan with endless love sagas of its rulers.
Jag Niwas, the City Palace, one of the largest palaces in India, is an interesting blend of Rajput architecture and Mughal interiors that carve this fortress as a distinctive structure. The palace also homes a well-maintained museum that upkeeps the armoury, costumes and other belongings of its rulers. The other captive interests in the mystic land are the Lake Palace, the Jag Mandir and numerous other forts and temples. A stunning masterpiece, Sahelion ki Bari also known as the ‘Garden of Maidens’ is a true delight to experience.
Udaipur
Udaipur is a shopper’s paradise and has fine marble mementoes, miniature paintings and handicraft items. There are other exquisite attractions like the ballads and compositions woven in melody by artists in traditional Rajasthani style. Overall, the excursion to this overwhelming city is a true delight.
Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh, the land of glory and valour is bound to leave you enchanted. The history of this captivating place is intriguing and spellbinding. The land of devotion and determination, Chittorgarh has produced some of the greatest devotees and courageous warriors in the history of India. Chittorgarh remains replete with historic associations and holds a very special place in the hearts of Rajputs, as it was a bastion of the clan at a time when every other stronghold had succumbed to invasion.
Chittorgarh Fort, the gigantic citadel was built in the seventh century and stands witness to chivalry, valour and honour postulated and lived by the Rajput rulers of that era. The fort is dotted with innumerable monuments and beautiful temples. The Vijay Stambh, tower of victory was erected by Rana Kumbha to mark his triumph over the Sultan of Gujarat. Here, you will revisit history where Rani Padmini along with other women performed the heroic act of Jauhar ― rather than being caught by the enemy, they took a plunge in fire. The sound and light show narrates the history of this majestic land to perfection and is a treat to witness.
Template Itinerary
Delving into the mysterious kingdom of Bhutan is to explore the spiritual and profound Buddhist world through traditional villages and ancestral customs their monasteries clinging to the challenging slopes of the Great Himalayas.
Travel Index
Destination Information
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