A Historic Shift
In a significant departure from its long-standing operational schedule, the famed Palace on Wheels, Rajasthan's premier luxury train, is set to welcome
passengers in May for the very first time. Traditionally, this opulent 'palace on rails' has conducted its journeys between September and April, carefully avoiding the peak summer heat of Rajasthan. This shift, confirmed by North Western Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer Amit Sudarshan, marks a notable break in a 43-year tradition. The decision stems from a considerable surge in traveler interest and a special charter booking that necessitated an extension beyond the usual season. Reports indicate a remarkable 45 percent increase in passenger demand, signaling a growing appetite for experiencing Rajasthan's royal allure outside its conventional tourist windows.
Royal Itinerary and Amenities
The Palace on Wheels offers an unforgettable 7-night, 8-day journey that encapsulates the essence of Rajasthan's royal heritage. Kicking off from New Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station, the route artfully guides travelers through a curated selection of majestic cities and historical landmarks. Destinations include the Pink City of Jaipur, the tiger sanctuary of Sawai Madhopur, the historic Chittorgarh, the romantic Udaipur, the golden city of Jaisalmer, the blue city of Jodhpur, and the bird sanctuary of Bharatpur, with a stop in Agra to witness the iconic Taj Mahal. Along this route, passengers are treated to an array of experiences, from palace tours and vibrant folk performances to enchanting dune dinners and thrilling tiger safaris. Onboard, the train itself is a testament to luxury, featuring deluxe cabins, suites, and a presidential suite, all adorned with rich silk furnishings and intricate royal motifs. Attentive 'Khidmatgars' provide butler-style hospitality, ensuring a truly regal experience complemented by fine dining restaurants, a lounge bar, and guided sightseeing.
Booking and Pricing Details
Securing a berth on the prestigious Palace on Wheels is a straightforward process, primarily managed through the official Rajasthan Tourism portal or authorized tour operators. Prospective travelers are guided through selecting their preferred tour season and departure month, followed by choosing their desired cabin category and occupancy. The portal facilitates the submission of traveler details and payment, offering options for online transactions or through authorized agents. Ticket prices are dynamic, varying based on the chosen cabin category, the season of travel, and the occupancy type. The official website provides detailed tariff pages, often differentiating between rates for Indian and international travelers, with specific pricing available for deluxe cabins, suites, and the presidential suite. It's important to note the cancellation policy, which adheres to Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) guidelines, involving tiered deductions based on how far in advance cancellation is made, with no refund available within 29 days of departure.
