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Palace on Wheels

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Palace on Wheels - General Information

Palace on Wheels
Voted No. 4 Luxury Train in the World

A joint collaboration of Indian Railways and the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, the Palace on Wheels train made its maiden luxury tour back in 1982. It was voted as the 4th luxurious train of the world in 2010. Later in August 2009, the luxury train was revamped, retaining its old world charm.

It offers 7 nights/8 days of a royal journey covering amazing tourist destinations of North India - Jaipur (the Pink city), Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambore National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur (the city of Lakes), Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the symbol of love and romance, Agra, before returning to Delhi, the capital of India.

The pioneer of India’s luxury travel is inspired by royal carriages of kings and rulers of the bygone era in India. These carriages are each named after a precious stone while the interiors reflect royalty. Guests are treated with hospitality of palatial times with the spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava that translates to ‘Guests are like God’.

The Palace on Wheels itinerary is specially designed for guests to get the most out of their short trip of luxury. With UNESCO World Heritage Sites, rock-carved forts, wildlife safaris, and bird sanctuaries, there is a wide range of world famous tourist spots to visit during the trip. At times, during the tour or off - board excursions, guests can choose between certain activities. Time is alloted in such a way so that Guests may participate in interesting activities like shopping, spas, etc.

One of India’s finest luxury trains - Palace on Wheels won several prestigious awards since its maiden trip. There were makeovers and enhanced onboard facilities on Palace on Wheels to provide guests with the best experience. The former personal carriages of Kings that also transported foreign dignitaries & Nizams is now available for domestic & international tourists/ travelers to experience royalty and king’s culture.

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Learn more about the detailed information of Palace on Wheels.

01: History

On the auspicious day of Republic day, January 26, 1982,Palace on Wheels started its valuable services to its guests. In order to promote the tourism of Rajasthan and to preserve erstwhile royal carriages of Indian Maharajas, the Palace on Wheels train has emerged as India's first luxury train.The rest of the history of Palace on Wheels highlighted with many awards and recognitions and became an inspiration to many luxury trains in India.

02: Interiors

Palace on Wheels is the name for its regal interiors and royallooks. Everything adorned and emphasized in the Palace on Wheels cabins are just exceptional and finds difficult to express in words. The decors and architecture embellished in the cabins make you really think it is a palace. Beautiful paintings, mirror and ceiling works, some fine architectural works like Zardozi, teak-ply and phad works, and many add intense glory to the Palace on Wheels from inside with these stunning interiors.

03: Facilities

Everything equipped and furnished in the cabins of Palace on Wheels never disappoints you. Whatever you want everything will available onboard from a small thing to any. Every cabin will be equipped with world-class facilities, air-conditioning, TV, beds, wardrobes, and a private bathroom with high-end facilities. For recreational space, there is a bar, gym, lounge, spa and two restaurants of the train that serves the best cuisines.

04: Route

The route map of the Palace on Wheels takes you through wonderful tourist attractions of Rajasthan and Agra. Starting from Delhi, the train covers Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agrathen again returns to Delhi.Every destination is a marvel to witness different things. Jaipur's historic tales, Sawai Madhopur's wildlife, Udaipur's romanticism, Jaisalmer's desert looks, Bharatpur's bird sanctuary, and Agra's symbol of love Taj Mahal like everything is a wonder to witness.

05: Coaches

There is a great prominence for Palace on Wheels coaches why because every coach was named after the princely states of Rajputana. To honor the Kingdoms which ruled the Rajputana clan, this idea was implemented to name the coaches like. In total, the train holds 14 coaches and their names are Alwar, Bharatpur, Bikaner, Bundi, Dholpur, Dungagarh, Jaisalmer, Jhalawar, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, Kota, Sirohi and Udaipur.

06: Cabins

The Palace on Wheels offers accommodation in the form of Deluxe Cabins and Super Deluxe Cabins. Overall, there are 39 Deluxe cabins and 2 Super Deluxe cabins. Each cabin is facilitated with all required amenities and luxurious facilities. The regal interiors of the cabins never make you think that you are on a train, they resemble a grand five-star hotel-like. The grand and opulent cabins of Palace on Wheels make the journey memorable and joyous.

Bar and Lounge

Q01: Is smoking allowed in the train?

No, smoking is not allowed in any part of the train. If you wish to smoke, talk to your butler, he would assist you.

Q02: What are the facilities available in the lounge room?

You can find many armchairs to sit and enjoy the scenery through panoramic windows. Books are available for those who want to read for a while. Small indoor board games are also provided. For more facilities of Palace on Wheels, Click Here

Q03: Who will be served drinks in Palace on Wheels?

Only those who are 21 years old or older will be served alcohol.

Coaches and Cabins

Q01: How many coaches are there in Palace on Wheels?

There are 14 coaches and each coach has varying number of cabins, based on the style of accommodations.

Q02: Does the name of coach make any difference?

The coaches are named after the princely states of Rajasthan. The types of facilities and accommodations within the same style of cabins are same. With regards to the coach name, the decor style of the cabin varies. For instant, Alwar coach hold decor of cone works with pink interior. Bharatpur coach holds paintings of bird species with inlay works in aqua green interior. Jaipur coach holds ceiling foil-work decoration, miniature paintings and zardozi work in gold and blue interior and so on.

Do you want to know more about the coaches? Click Here.

 

Q03: How many passengers can be accommodated in the coaches?

Apart from the staffs, 82 passengers can be accommodated during a trip.

Q04: What are the amenities available inside the cabin?

Security safe, TV, DVD player, attached bathroom, channel music, toiletries, telephone services and many others. A few furniture are also provided inside the cabins.

Q05: What are the types of accommodations available in Palace on Wheels?

There are two types of cabins, Deluxe cabins and Super Deluxe cabins. Each type of cabin holds both single occupancy cabins and double occupancy cabins.

Q06: How Much luggage is allowed inside the cabin?

Limited space is provided under the bed for storing luggage. Thus, stick with the airline regulation of luggage.

Facilities

Q01: How is food served inside the train?

There are two restaurants inside the train, where the food is served inside the train. For more details about dining cars, Click Here.

Q02: What type of cuisine is served in Palace on Wheels?

In general, you will be served top cuisines like Continental, Indian and Chinese. You will be served traditional Rajasthan dishes too. If you require any special diet food like lactose-free dishes, kosher diet, gluten-free diet and others, mention during the booking.

Q03: Does the train provide laundry services?

There is no such service inside the train. However, at specific destinations, you can opt for laundry service and the clothes will be delivered at the next destination. To know when the laundry service is available, talk to your butler. It is an add-on service and is not covered in the tariff.

Q04: Am I entitled to have a butler?

Every traveler of Palace on Wheels will be served by a butler. Each coach of Palace on Wheels holds one butler, who is at service 24/7.

Q05: Are there any facilities for physically challenged tourists?

If you are in need of wheel chair or other services, please mention during booking. The train cabins can be easily accessed via wheel chair.

Q06: Are there any medical facilities available?

A paramedic is available throughout the journey. However, not all medicines would be available on-board. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it is better to bring your medicines with you.

Q07: Is there internet facility in the train?

Internet facility is available throughout the journey. However, the strength of the signal depends on the location of the train. While the train is at halt at any major station, the strength of the signal will be very good.

General Information

Q01: What is Palace on Wheels?

A : Palace on Wheels is a luxury train of India, which provides a pre-determined tour itinerary through iconic attractions of the land.

Q02: Where does Palace on Wheels operate?

The train runs in India through the desert region of Rajasthan and surrounding areas like Agra and Delhi.

Q03: How to book tickets for Palace on Wheels?

Palace on Wheels tickets can be booked via online through GSA or through their official sites. To book tickets, Click Here.

Q04: Why is it called as Palace on Wheels?

Each carriage of the train is named after the forts and palaces of ancient Rajasthan. The rich decor and the classy hospitality makes it feel like staying in a real palace and thus, the name, Palace on Wheels.

Q05: Who owns the Palace on Wheels?

It is operated by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways.

Q06: Are children allowed in Palace on Wheels?

Yes, children are allowed in the Palace on Wheels. Kids up to the age of 12 are considered as children by the policy.

Q07: Are pets allowed in Palace on Wheels?

No, pets are not allowed inside the train.

Q08: What are the travel documents required for the travel?

Every foreign passenger irrespective of age should hold a valid passport and visa. The Palace on Wheels ticket confirmation document should be shown whenever requested.

Q09: How early should I book tickets?

It is recommended to book at least two to three month in prior to the departure date. The demand for the tickets is quite high, especially during tourism season.

Q10: How to pay for the tickets?

The portals accept all major international credit cards like Master, Visa, American Express, Discover and so on. You can also choose bank transfers. Bank details will be provided upon request.

Q11: Do I need visa to travel in Palace on Wheels?

Every non-India has to hold a valid Indian visa to enter into the country. Palace on Wheels will not specifically request you to provide passport or visa details.

Q12: Are there any regulations for dressing in the train?

There are no specific dress code for the tourists. It is recommended to wear anything that is comfortable and decent.

Q13: What type of dresses are recommended?

India is a tropical land. If you are visiting during winter, choose to carry jackets with you. Else, thick cotton clothing will be quite enough. For safari, wear sunglasses, hats and thick shoes.

Itinerary

Q01: What are the top destinations covered by Palace on Wheels?

Top destinations covered are Jaipur, Ranthambore, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bharatpur and Agra. For detailed itinerary, Click Here.

Q02: Where does the itinerary start and end?

The train journey starts and ends at Safdurjung Railway Station, Delhi.

Q03: How long is the train journey?

Palace on Wheels has one signature itinerary, which spans for eight days and seven nights.

Q04: Is the itinerary open throughout the year?

No, the itinerary is open only from September to April, every year.

Pre and Post Tour Accommo

Q01: When should I reach India for Palace on Wheels tour?

To avoid hassle at the last minute, it is recommended to reach Delhi station at least a few hours in prior to the departure time. It is better to book hotels for a night post and pre tour.

Q02: Are the fly-in and fly-out tickets included in the fare?

No, any form of transportation before or after the tour is not included in the fare. If you require assistance in booking domestic or international tickets, contact the representative.

Q03: Are the hotel accommodations covered in the tariff?

Any accommodation or travel; prior or post the train journey is not covered under the tariff of the ticket.

Q04: Are the hotel accommodations covered in the tariff?

Any accommodation or travel; prior or post the train journey is not covered under the tariff of the ticket.

Spa

Q01: What type of therapies are available in the Spa?

You can find a long list of Ayurvedic therapies in the spa. In addition, you can enjoy massages and specialized treatments for any specific requirements. For more details about the spa, Click Here

Q02: Is the Spa session covered in the tariff of the train ticket?

No, spa sessions are not included in the tariff of the train fare.

Train Fare

Q01: What is the ticket price of Palace on Wheels in USD and INR?

During the peak season, from October to March, cost of single occupancy is INR 51,900 per night (USD 865 per night), double occupancy is INR 39,000 per night (USD 650 per night) and super deluxe cabin is INR 1,08,000 per night (USD 1,800 per night).

During the lean season, April and September, cost of single occupancy is INR 39,000 per night (USD 650 per night), double occupancy is INR 30,000 per night (USD 500 per night) and super deluxe cabin is INR 1,08,000 per night (USD 1,800 per night).

For more details, Click Here.

 

Q02: What is the ticket cost for a child in Palace on Wheels?

For children below the age of 5 years, 10% of the total ticket cost

For children between 5 and 12 years, 50% of the total ticket cost.

 

Q03: Will the cost be altered in virtue of any celebrations?

During festivals like Christmas and New Year, additional 10% surcharge is added to the total ticket cost.

Q04: Are gratuities a part of the train fare?

Gratuities are not a part of the tariff.

Q05: Will there be a reduction in tariff if I cut short the train journey?

No, refund would not be provided if the journey were cut-short due to any reason.

Q06: Are the meal included in the tariff?

Every meal provided inside the train and in specific hotels, as a part of the itinerary are included in the tariff. Any other eatables you buy during sightseeing will not be covered in the fare.

Q07: When does each trip start and end?

It is recommended to take a travel insurance of your choice. You would be covered under a common insurance of Palace on Wheels against damages caused due to natural disasters like flood, earthquake, terrorism and others.

Q08: Do I need to take any vaccination to travel in Palace on Wheels?

Palace on Wheels does not demand any vaccination certificates from the travelers. However, if you are visiting from any Yellow Fever epidemic country, you need vaccination certification to enter India.

Q09: Can I cancel the booked tickets? What is the cost of cancellation?

Yes, you can cancel the tickets whenever needed. If you cancel 90 days before departure date, 10% of the total ticket fare is deducted. If canceled between 30 and 89 days from departure date, 20% of the cost is deducted. If canceled within 29 days from departure date, no refund is made.

Q10: Can I transfer the ticket to another person?

No, tickets under one name cannot be used by another.

Q11: Is my tour insured?

The itinerary starts and ends on Wednesday. The tour starts on a Wednesday evening and ends on the next Wednesday morning. For upcoming departure dates, Click Here.

Q12: Will Palace on Wheels cancel the booked tour?

The train needs a minimum number of passengers for profitable functioning. If the threshold is not met, the tour will be cancelled and complete refund is made. In case of tour being cancelled because of any natural calamity, no refund would be provided.

Train History

Q01: When was the first tour of Palace on Wheels started?

The first tour of Palace on Wheels started on Republic day, Jan 26th of 1982.

Q02: What is the history of Palace on Wheels?

In the past, the royal heirs of Rajputana, Gujarat and Hyderabad traveled from one place to another in royal trains. Even the British rulers used specially crafted saloons filled with luxury amenities to travel the region. After independence, these saloons were left unused until 1982, when the tourism department of Rajasthan took over these saloons, refurbished them and created the honorable Palace on Wheels. For a more detailed history, Click Here

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