Rajasthan

Palace on Wheels: Tracing regal lifestyle on the rail tracks

As a part-time writer and full-time wanderer, I've experienced my fair share of unique accommodations and journeys. But nothing prepared me for the sheer opulence and adventure that awaited me on Indian Railway's pride, the Palace on Wheels. Come with me as I recount my week-long journey through the heart of Rajasthan, where every moment felt like a step back to the era of maharajas and royal grandeur.

All aboard: The journey starts from Delhi

The excitement was palpable as I arrived at Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi. The gleaming train stood majestically on the platform, its engine purring with anticipation. As I was welcomed with a garland and the traditional Indian 'tilak' on my forehead, I knew this wouldn't be just another train ride.

Stepping into my cabin was like entering a fancy movie set. The rich interiors, with intricately carved wooden panels and plush furnishings, transported me to the bygone era of Indian royalty. My attendant, dressed in a crisp uniform, showed me around my home for the next week – a spacious deluxe cabin with a comfortable bed, en-suite bathroom, and large windows perfect for watching the landscape roll by.

It’s not going to be a regular journey

After a few hours on the train, I realised that the Palace on Wheels was far more than an exquisite royal train. For the upcoming days, it will be our home, our guide, and our gateway to the wonders of Rajasthan and beyond.

Our journey, an expertly crafted 7-night, 8-day expedition, promised to showcase every facet of Indian tourism. From architectural marvels to natural wonders, from bustling cities to serene sanctuaries, the Palace on Wheels would be our magic carpet, whisking us through the best of Rajasthan and culminating in Agra, home of the iconic Taj Mahal.

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Rajasthan

From the ‘Pink City’ to tiger territory

Our first stop was Jaipur, the Pink City. As we disembarked, our guide (for the train provides not just luxury accommodations but expert narration as well) led us to Amber Fort. The elephant ride up to the fort was a thrilling start to our adventure, offering a taste of how the maharajas of Rajasthan once travelled.

Next stop, and we found ourselves in Sawai Madhopur, home to Ranthambore National Park. Our exclusive jeep safari through the park was a stark contrast to the previous day's urban explorations. Though tigers proved elusive, the diversity of wildlife and the raw beauty of nature left us in awe.

Exploring Chittorgarh and Udaipur

Our next conquest was the imposing Chittorgarh Fort. As we explored its massive expanse, our train guide regaled us with tales of Rajput valour, bringing history to life before our eyes.

In Udaipur, the Venice of the East, we traded wheels for water with a dreamy boat ride on Lake Pichola. The sight of the Lake Palace seemingly floating on the lake's surface was straight out of a fairy tale.

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Magic of the desert and the blue hues

The ‘Golden City’ of Jaisalmer brought us face to face with the Thar Desert. Our camel safari through the Sam sand dunes, culminating in a dinner under the starry desert sky, was an experience that words fail to capture adequately.

The next stop was Jodhpur, the ‘Blue City’, which offered a visual feast of a different kind. The Mehrangarh Fort, towering over a sea of blue-painted houses, was a photographer's dream. I also clicked a few pictures, and my fellow passengers soon asked me to click their photos. Yep! We ended up being friends.

Lake Pichola and City Palace, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, Asia.

Before we say goodbye!

Our penultimate day began in Bharatpur, where the Keoladeo Ghana National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) awaited. The early morning air was filled with the calls of countless birds, a symphony of nature that contrasted beautifully with the man-made wonders we'd been experiencing.

As the day progressed, we arrived in Agra, home to the crowning glory of our journey—the Taj Mahal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to eternal love, was even more breathtaking in person than in photographs. Our exploration of Agra Fort provided context for the Mughal era that gave birth to the Taj.

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Time for a bittersweet farewell

As we chugged back to Delhi, I found myself lost in reflection. The Palace on Wheels had been more than just a luxury train journey; it was a voyage through time, culture, and the very essence of royal India. From the impeccable service to the meticulously planned itinerary, every aspect of the trip exceeded my expectations.

What struck me most was how the train managed to be a destination in itself while also being a gateway to the wonders of Rajasthan. The friendships formed with fellow travellers, the stories shared over drinks in the bar car, and the gentle rocking of the train as it rolled through the night – all these became integral parts of the Palace on Wheels experience.

As I disembarked in Delhi, I knew I was leaving with more than just memories and photographs. The Palace on Wheels gave me a deeper understanding of India's royal heritage and stories I would recount for years.

For anyone looking to experience the grandeur of India's past while enjoying the comforts of the present, I cannot recommend the Palace on Wheels highly enough.

The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in the Indian city of Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

A feast fit for the Kings

The two lavishly decorated restaurant cars, "The Maharaja" and "The Maharani," became my favourite haunts during the journey. Each meal was a culinary adventure, perfectly blending traditional Rajasthani dishes and international cuisine. Every dish told a story of Rajasthan's rich culinary heritage, from the spicy laal maas (red meat) to the delicate flavours of Kheer (Indian pudding).

What impressed me most was how the chefs created gastronomic marvels in a moving kitchen. The attentive staff, always ready with recommendations and stories about the dishes, made every meal feel like a royal banquet.

Planning your royal escape already? This may help

Before you embark on your Palace on Wheels adventure, there are a few important details to keep in mind. The price for this regal experience varies depending on the season and your choice of accommodation. As of my journey, the starting fare was USD 6,048 per person for double occupancy as it was the lean season. The fares are divided into lean season (April and September) and peak season (October to March), with these rates remaining valid until April 2025. It's worth noting that there are no departures from May to August, so plan your trip accordingly.

Watch for notable departures on specific dates, including seasonal specials, which may incur additional costs. However, the good news is that your fare includes many experiences: all accommodations, meals, and non-alcoholic drinks are covered. Plus, you don't need to worry about extra fees for sightseeing tours, entrance to monuments and palaces, a camel ride in Jaisalmer, a shared jeep safari in Ranthambore, a boat ride in Udaipur, and a rickshaw ride in the Bharatpur bird sanctuary. It's a comprehensive package that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the journey without constantly reaching for your wallet.

I'd strongly recommend visiting the official Palace on Wheels website for the most up-to-date information on fares, schedules, and any special offers. After all, a journey fit for royalty deserves careful planning to ensure you make the most of every majestic moment and feel fully prepared for your adventure!

By: Yuvraj Vikram Singh