Overview
With a dash of royal palaces, breathtaking fortresses, desert safaris, cultural excursions, and wildlife trips, the Palace on Wheels journey provides a cultural extravaganza drenched in sheer opulence. The train features 14 guest salons, each a walking gallery of grandeur, reflecting the ethos of the Rajputana state after which they are named. The interiors are adorned with sylvan décor, intricate carvings, and elegant furnishings, showcasing the rich heritage of distinct princedoms.
Modern amenities ensure that guests experience luxury akin to 5-star hotels, including a wellness spa, fine dining restaurants, and en suite facilities. Round-the-clock assistance by Khidmatgars (personal valets), impeccable service, and friendly guides during off-train excursions guarantee a royal treatment while touring Rajasthan aboard the Palace on Wheels.
Highlights
Lunch at Amber Fort, Jaipur.
Jungle safari at Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur.
Boat ride in Lake Pichola, Udaipur.
Evening tea in Sam sand dunes accompanied by a cultural performance, Jaisalmer.
Jungle safari in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur.
Visit the Taj Mahal, Agra.
Itinerary - Palace on Wheels
Day 1: Delhi
Welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels. The weeklong journey to the wonderland of Rajasthan begins at the Safdarjung Railway Station in Delhi with a traditional welcome ceremony, followed by check-in and registration. The train departs for Jaipur in the evening. Overnight stay on board.
Day 2: Jaipur
The train arrives in Jaipur early in the morning. Explore the city, starting with Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, and the 18th-century astronomical observatory, Jantar Mantar. Visit the City Palace, which now serves as a museum. Enjoy a gala lunch at Amber Fort, with an optional elephant ride to explore its beauty. Return to the train for dinner and an overnight stay as it moves towards Sawai Madhopur.
Day 3: Sawai Madhopur - Chittorgarh
The Palace on Wheels enters Sawai Madhopur at dawn. After breakfast, guests will visit Ranthambore National Park, home to diverse wildlife. Return to the train for lunch and continue to Chittorgarh. Spend the evening exploring the historic Chittorgarh Fort. Dinner and overnight stay on board.
Day 4: Udaipur
The train arrives in Udaipur, the Lake City, at 0800 hrs. Visit Jag Niwas, Lake Pichola, and the City Palace. A guided tour to the Crystal Gallery will be arranged in the evening. The train proceeds towards Jaisalmer for an overnight stay on board.
Day 5: Jaisalmer
The train enters Jaisalmer at 0915 hours. Explore the splendid havelis, including Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim-Singh-ki-haveli. Shop for handicrafts and embroidered articles in government-approved shops. Enjoy evening tea in the Sam sand dunes with a cultural performance by local artists, followed by a grand Rajasthani dinner at a palace hotel. Return to the Palace on Wheels for an overnight stay as it departs for Jodhpur at 11:45 PM.
Day 6: Jodhpur
Early morning, the train arrives in Jodhpur, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 AD. After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour to Mehrangarh Fort, which houses many palaces reflecting the grandeur of bygone rulers. Enjoy lunch in a deluxe hotel serving international cuisines. After lunch, board the train for Bharatpur and Agra, with dinner and overnight stay on board.
Day 7: Bharatpur - Agra
The next morning, the train reaches Bharatpur, home to Keoladeo Ghana National Park, known for its diverse bird species. After an explorative safari, return to the train for breakfast. By 10:30 hours, the Palace on Wheels enters Agra, where guests can witness the iconic Taj Mahal and explore its history with an experienced guide. Enjoy a royal lunch in a palace hotel and optionally visit local markets before the train departs Agra at 23:00 hours. Dinner and overnight stay on board as the train heads back to Delhi.
Day 8: Delhi
After breakfast, check out of the train, taking with you the memories of a weeklong luxury ride with UNIT 9 Travels aboard the Palace on Wheels.