The Royal Train
The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train, run by Government of India. The train covers the state of Rajasthan, along with Agra. The luxury train is entirely self dependent and has all of the facilities of a five star hotel. Palace on Wheels carries with it an intrinsic ambience that goes completely well with the majestic allure and elegance spread so lavishly in Rajasthan. The ambience along with the aura make the astute really feel to be living in the regal era.
It's an unparalleled knowledge to ride the replica carriages refurbished to look just like the original saloons in the Maharajas, the erstwhile rulers of India. The train which is so true to its name is bound to enchant you. The train journey is amongst the major 10 luxury train tours within the planet.
A Short Historical past
The coaches had been produced for your former Indian rulers, comprising of private coaches of the rulers of your princely states of Gujarat and Rajputana, the Viceroy of British India and the Nizam of Hyderabad. They employed these coaches to move from one state to other. Following India got independence as well as the princely states merged with the Federal government, the coaches and the train grew to become a part of the museums. In 1980, the Rajasthan Tourism Growth Corporation, with each other with the Indian Railways decided to prelaunch the train, and supplies it to men and women. These days, the Palace on Wheels will be the most promoted product by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
The Fascinating Journey
The train journey begins every Wednesday at 1630 hrs and ends one week later, on Wednesday at 0800 hrs. In between the train covers Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Ranthambhore, Udaipur, Bharatpur, Fatehpur Sikri and Agra. The train gives an oppurtunity to its travelers to get acquainted with the culture of Rajasthan. The major tourist spots, forts, monuments, wildlife parks, cultural centres are covered.
The Interiors of Palace on Wheel
Amusingly, the nomenclature of saloons in Palace on wheels in really diverse than normal. The names on the saloons offered are according to the princely states of Rajasthan- Jaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, Bundi, Kota, Jhalawar, Dungarpur, Dholpur, Bharatpur, Jaisalmer, Sirohi, Bikaner, Udaipur and Kishangarh. Interestingly, you will discover that each saloon highlights the cultural ethos of your state. The ethnic heritage of each city is represented by the intensive usage of furnishings, handicrafts, painting and furnishings. The ceiling within the lounge is of particular curiosity. Every saloon is diverse but the total ambience in the décor on the saloons has long been taken care of to supply continuity and harmony. Every saloon has cream yellow color on its exterior walls and bears the Coat of Arms (logo) of your erstwhile princely states
The Onboard Amenities
You will discover about 14 saloons, each possessing 4 cabins connected with bath and shower. The luxury train also boasts two eating places cum kitchen vehicles providing traditional Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine using the Chef's special selection from the day. Its properly stocked bar serves Indian liquor and selection of scotch, wine and cocktails. It has piped music in every saloon, and fascinating games for children. Aside from this, the other providers on request contain laundry companies, and Physician on call at every station, barber store & splendor parlor. The lounge also has a souvenirs store 'The Bazaar' where souvenirs and gift items are sold bearing the insignia of the Palace on Wheel.
The Comfort
The comfort offered is close to the extravagances enjoyed by the erstwhile Maharajas. The Palace on Wheels maintains an imperial style and decor. The train facilities are synonymous using the epitome of luxury. Especially facilitated with all modern amenities of everyday life, one can come across the royal past haunting in the historical coaches. The two dining vehicles are decked up in true Rajasthani style and each saloon has personal attendants, khidmatgars, for your service.
The train is on the journey each week and advanced booking for that journey shall be created. The fare covers travel; stay on Maharaja Train with daily 3 fixed meals, conducted sightseeing tours, entrance fees to monuments, joy rides on Elephant & Camel, boat journey, cycle rikshaw ride and transport within the city.
The Cultural Programmes on the train
The dance and music of Rajasthan is one in the fascinating aspect from the luxury train Journey. The train is a wonderful medium for a tourist to know about the culture and heritage. The many dance performances held on the train are - Ghoomar Dance, Chari Dance, Kachhi Godhi , Fire dance, Terah talli, Kalbelia Dance.
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