Tour aboard Palace on Wheels for celebrating Valentine’s Day

Ironically there is no particular day to relive romantic moments with your beloved. But February 14^th is considered to a special day for spending some romantic moments as it marks the occasion of Valentine’s Day. When it comes to India’s most romantic destinations, Rajasthan is the first choice of 

Palace On Wheels

overseas travelers. With one of the Palace on Wheels departures taking place on the 13^th February,  the luxury train offers a chance to begin a whole new romantic chapter in your life. Out of all the destinations covered by this luxury tourist train, Udaipur, Ranthambore, Bharatpur and Agra hold a special mention.

Udaipur

Fondly referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur is an ultimate destination for newlyweds to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The city has been voted as the most romantic destination in India by travel connoisseurs and leading magazines. Udaipur exudes a magnetic aura of  romance with its lakes, forts and magnificent palaces. Taj Lake Palace, situated in the midst of Lake Pichola, is voted as the most romantic hotel by the Trip Advisor members and has played host to the who’s who from all around the world. A romantic candle-lit dinner at a rooftop restaurant  in the Lake Palace is an experience that cannot be expressed in mere words.

Ranthambore and Bharatpur

It’s not just forts and palace where the romance of Rajasthan conjures up, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve and Keoladeo Ghana National Park too has its own share of loyal patrons. What could be a better way to celebrate life, apart from watching animals in their natural turf, if you have a  love for nature and wildlife.

Agra

The penultimate destination covered by the Palace on Wheels train, Agra is the place where your romance reaches its crescendo. The main reason why honeymooners and love birds throng in Agra is the Taj Mahal. 

It is not just a mausoleum but the undying love of the emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, shaped through white marble.  

Some Points to Remember While Booking for the Palace on Wheels Train

Voted as the fourth best luxury train in the world, Palace on Wheels train is quite hit with overseas travelers looking forward to explore Rajasthan in a luxurious manner. 

Palace On Wheels Luxury Train

The week long journey on board Palace on Wheels train covers Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Ranthambore and Bharatpur. Apart from the destinations, the 8 days long stay on board is an experience to cherish. Guests carriages reflect the architectural aesthetics of erstwhile princely states of Rajasthan such as Dholpur, Jaipur, Mandwa, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer etc.

Lounge Bar of Palace on Wheels 

The train is a solution to the problem of booking accommodation and finding a place for dining while on a holiday trip. Also the itinerary of this luxury train has been designed in such a way that you travel at night and explore new destinations every day. With the emergence of the internet, booking a journey on board this luxury train is a matter of few minutes. However, it is imperative to remember few points before doing that.

Palace On Wheels Rajasthan Tour

     You can book an online ticket by filling up a query form on the website of palace on wheels (palacesonwheels.co.uk)

     Always make sure to book tickets for three people at once. It is because the tariff on triple sharing basis is the minimum ($ 450).

     A 10% surcharge is levied on the departures between Christmas (25^th December) and the New Year (1^st January).

     If you are accompanying a child between 5 to 12 years &below 5 years, he will be charged 50% and 10% of the original tariff.

     You are required to pay 20% of the ticket value at the time of confirmation and rest 80% is to be paid 60 days prior to the departure date. 

Palace on wheels : A Train true to its name

Palace on wheel started the concept of luxury travelling in India. The first train rolled on its wheels on 26th January 1982, and was modeled on the royal carriages of the erstwhile kings of Rajasthan. The train is not just equipped with all the modern facilities, but also has a huge collection of rarest vintage artifacts, choicest collection of wines and spirits, multi variety cuisines, and a hospitality unmatched in its class.

Palace on wheels Luxury Train, India

The itinerary was selected to cover the most important places in Rajasthan, along with the capital of India, New Delhi and Agra. Having pioneered the genre of luxury travelling in India for more than 3 decades, palace on wheels lives every bit, to the hype created around its name.

The journey

Palace on wheels cover some of the most fascinating cities and landscapes of northern and northwestern India. The journey lasts for a total of 8 days and 7 nights, and together carries the many colors of India, and the rich bounty of nature, in all its forms and splendor.  Cities on route are a mix of ancient and medieval historical cities, wildlife sanctuaries, city of lakes, pilgrim cities and the one and only Taj Mahal, the postcard picture for India savvy tourists.

Destinations

All the destinations en route of Palace on Wheels are different from each other, and a marvel in themselves. The cities are carefully chosen to give to its guests the best introduction to the rich diversity, and cultural heritage of India.

The cities covered on this journey are:

• Jaipur
• Jaisalmer
• Jodhpur
• Sawai Madhopur
• Chittaurgarh
• Udaipur
• Bharatpur
• Agra

 Tariff for The Train

Indian luxury train ‘Palace on Wheels’ offers three different kinds of occupancy, and consequently 3 different types of fare. The fares for different occupancies is provided below for your perusal. The fares mentioned below are valid for the season Sept 2012 till Apr 2013. The tariff during the peak season i.e. from Oct 2012 to Mar 2013 is also provided below. Special seasonal departures may also include additional benefits or discounts.

                                 Palace on Wheels Tariff plan for the lean season of 2012-13

Occupancy Type	Sept 2012 & April 2013  (Per person per night)
Single occupancy	USD 575
Twin sharing	USD 430
Triple sharing	USD 390

Palace on Wheels tariff plan for peak season of 2012-13

Occupancy Type	Oct 2012 to March 2013 (Per person per night)
Single occupancy	USD 770
Twin sharing	USD 575
Triple sharing	USD 520

Take advantage of these superb rates, and highest rank services and hospitality, while travelling through some of India’s most loved tourist destinations. Book your ticket now! http://www.palacesonwheels.co.uk/

Too LATE to Book a Palace on Wheels Tour? Well, Not Quite!

The Palace on Wheels, India’s first luxury train and an enterprise of Rajasthan Tourism, has already run its first journey of the year on 5th September, 2012. And if you always dreamed about getting a ticket on board, come any later and the dream will remain just that – a dream! Due to the immense popularity it enjoys, Palace on Wheels normally gets sold out a couple of months in advance. However, before you cancel this tab and throw out your monitors in anger… relax! True that finding a seat on the POW for the New Year’s Eve journey is a tall order this time of the year, there are several other journeys you might get a seat on. And with timing seemingly not your forte, assuming you haven’t booked already, it’s better you start NOW to get assured reservations in the celebrated train.

Palace on Wheels : Luxury Train in India

For starters, why won’t you consider the journeys next month? The weather is awesome, breezy and a little overcast. Being on any  of the first few journeys has its own set of advantages. The train is all fresh, the interiors are spic and span, the staff is refreshed and excited to start on the season’s first trip and you can get some pretty handy discounts on early bird bookings – if you consider the whole package, signing up for the October and November journeys is not a bad deal at all. Reservations can be made directly by filling and submitting the bookings’ form present on the Indian Luxury Trains website. 

Let us welcome you in advance for the most enthralling journey of your lifetime. Book now for your own Palace on Wheels experience.For More Information - http://www.palacesonwheels.co.uk/

Relish Your Rajasthan Trip aboard Palace on Wheels

Rajasthan, the erstwhile demesne of Rajasthan rulers, is one of the most sought after destinations in India and the largest state as well. What beckon global nomads to this harsh and deserted terrain are the resplendent forts, magnificent palaces, bustling bazaars and palpable vigor of life present here. Adjudged as 4th best luxury train in the world, Palace on Wheels offers a weeklong trip covering former princely states of Rajasthan along with a halt in Agra.

Welcome to Guest on board Palaces on Wheels

A joint effort of Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation, Palace on Wheels embarked on its maiden voyage on 26th January, 1982. The destinations of Rajasthan covered by this luxury tourist train include Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Jaisalmer and Bharatpur. Being a domain of Mughal emperors who were staunch enemies of Rajputs, Agra is a stark opposition in this train tour itinerary. Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi serves as the point of embarkation and disembarkation for Palace on Wheels. 

The Sitting Bar on the Palace on Wheels Train

Except for Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur, each destination of Rajasthan included in the tour itinerary was either founded by former Rajput rulers or resonate with the tales of their valor and chivalry. The most prominent among all is fort town ‘Chittorgarh’ who’s every nook and corner sings saga of Rajput audacity with the examples of ‘Jauhar’ committed by Rani Padmavati and Karnavati and ferocious battle of Haldighati. 

Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur are largely recognized for their wildlife treasure troves. Whereas Sawai Madhopur is one of the most famous tiger reserves in India, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, emblazoned as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a heaven for migratory birds and bird watchers. 

Taj Mahal in Agra : A World Heritage Site

The penultimate destination of Palace on Wheels tour itinerary is Agra. The city is mainly visited for Taj Mahal which depicts the proud passion of Shah Jahan’s love for Mumtaz Mahal wrought in white marble. On the 8th day, Palace on Wheels train journey draws to an end by providing a wholesome experience of Rajasthan travel to the passengers.

Palaces on Wheels Itinerary

When it comes to Palace on Wheels, this Indian luxury train needs no introduction. Been voted World’s 4th Best Luxury Train by Conde Nast Traveller and revered around the world, Palace on Wheels has been in service for more than 30 years since its inception in 1982. Offering luxury train tour in Rajasthan, this luxury train showcases the rich heritage and royal legacy of the land of Rajput warrior princes in a weeklong palace on wheels itinerary starting from US $390 per person per night. This year, the Palace on Wheels will be embarking on its maiden journey from September 2012.

Palace on Wheels Luxury Train - Best Rail Journeys in India

Price Starting from USD 390 (Per Person per Nights)

Tour Duration: 7 Nights/8 Days

Places Covered: Delhi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur/Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur/Agra, Delhi

Palaces on wheels Itinerary:

Day 1: Delhi

Red Fort in Delhi

Ø  A traditional style welcome in Safdarjung  Railway Station Delhi followed by check-in formalities

Ø  Beginning of a grand rail tour to India while making a move towards Jaipur

Ø A royal dinner onboard Palace on Wheels

Day 2: Jaipur

Hawa Mahal in Jaipur

Ø  Early morning arrival at the palace city Jaipur

Ø  Enjoy a refreshing breakfast onboard

Ø  De-board the train at Jaipur Railway Station and experience a traditional welcome ritual before setting off to a off-train city tour

Ø  By the afternoon, reach Amber Fort to have a tantalizing gala lunch and after that explore the architectural beauty of the fort with a trained guide

Ø  At evening, enjoy a roam to the city market and then get back to the train for leisure and high-tea

Ø  Late evening, return to Jaipur for having a grand dinner at the Jai Mahal Palace

Ø  After dinner, get back to the train for an overnight stay and your onward journey to Sawai Madhopur

Day 3: Sawai Madhopur/Chittorgarh

Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur

Ø  After reaching Sawai Madhopur in the early morning, set off to a thrilling jungle safari to the Ranthambore National Park

Ø  After the safari, enjoy a refreshing breakfast in a jungle lodge

Ø  Return back to Palace on Wheels for a departing journey to Chittorgarh

Ø  Savor a tempting lunch onboard Palace on Wheels and reach the city of Chittorgarh by the evening

Ø  After having a sightseeing tour to the Chittorgarh Fort, witness a beautiful light and sound show in the fort duly accompanied by evening tea and other refreshments

Ø  Take the delight of a Rajasthani dinner at deluxe hotel Panna alongside savoring a great cultural show

Ø  For an overnight stay, return back to your deluxe carriages on Palace on Wheels

Day 4: Udaipur

Boating in Lake Pichola with a view of Lake Pichola is a fascinating experience

Ø  By 0200 hours, leaving Chittorgarh for an onward journey to the city of romance Udaipur

Ø  After arriving in the lake city Udaipur at morning, de-board the train for a refreshing breakfast in a deluxe hotel

Ø  Start an off-train excursion tour to the city and at afternoon, enjoy a stately lunch in a heritage hotel in Udaipur

Ø  With the setting rays of the sun, experience an adventurous boat ride in Lake Pichola

Ø  After a daylong excursion, return to the train for your journey towards Jaisalmer

Ø  Relax and enjoy a royal dinner onboard Palace on Wheels

Day 5: Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort,Rajasthan

Ø  The morning of the 5^th day starts with a rejuvenating breakfast on the go

Ø  Disembark the train for an explorative tour to Jaisalmer and at afternoon enjoy a taste bud tempting lunch in the Palace on Wheels restaurant or at the deluxe Moomal hotel

Ø  Evening is all studded with a camel ride in the sand dunes and then an evening tea and refreshments there

Ø  Charmed by a colorful cultural program performed by the local artists while savoring a gala dinner in the sand dunes

Ø  At night, start a journey to Jaipur onboard Palace on Wheels

Day 6: Jodhpur

Jodhpur The Blue City

Ø  After reaching Jodhpur, have a refreshing breakfast onboard

Ø  After breakfast, de-board the train for an explorative city tour

Ø  Have a lunch at a deluxe resort

Ø  By the evening, return back to the royal train Palace on Wheels for relaxation and a ride to Bharatpur

Ø  Dinner and a relaxing night stay onboard Palace on Wheels

Day 7: Bharatpur/Agra

Taj Mahal : UNESCO World Heritage Sites In India

Ø  After reaching Bharatpur early morning, leave for Keoladeo Ghana National Park for an early morning bird viewing

Ø  Enjoy a rejuvenating morning snacks in a forest lodge and then return back to the train for your onward journey to Agra

Ø  Late morning, reach the majestic city of Agra and set off to a city tour

Ø  Afternoon lunch in a deluxe hotel in Agra followed by a tour to explore the beauty of Taj Mahal

Ø  Evening tour to the city markets and then a beautiful light and sound show

Ø  Either a grand dinner in a royal Agra hotel or onboard luxury Indian train Palace on Wheels

Ø  Start a journey back Delhi

Day 8: Delhi

Ø  Early morning arrival in the Safdarjung Railway Station Delhi

Ø  An onboard refreshing morning treat followed by check-out and farewell formalities.

Palace on Wheels Route Map:

For more details of the itineraries, schedules, tariff and booking of the Palace on Wheels Train journey you may like to visit the website of  palacesonwheels.co.uk

Managing Overheads/Exclusions on Your Palace on Wheels Tour

True to its luxury tag, the Palace on Wheels Tour package is all-inclusive and covers most of the guests’ expenses. The package cost consists of a large number of inclusions such as intermittent travel such as airport transfers, journey excursions, rides, safaris etc; plus tickets to cultural programs, monuments, parks or palaces, catering etc. Even though the list of inclusions is exhaustive, it is imperative that guests manage the exclusions, however little they may be, wisely. Here’s presenting the list of exclusions for Palace on Wheels Tour package:

1 -  Drinks – All costs incurred for drinks (at the on-board bar or ordered in by room service) are to be borne by the guests. Guests will also have to pay separately for any drinks ordered at on-site restaurants, cafes, bars or hotels.

2 - Tips and Gratuities – All service tips and gratuities are not included in the package costs and are to be accounted for by the guests themselves. Please note that the RTDC (Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.) does NOT encourage or abhor the practice of tipping. Handing out tips, henceforth, is excluded in the package rates and is as per your discretion.

3 -  Use of Business Car – The usage of Business car for holding telecons, business meetings, seminars etc. is chargeable as per existing rates. Guests are also requested to make prior bookings for the same.

4 -  Telephone Calls – All calls made by the in-room telephone will be charged to the guests and will be attached separated with other expenses incurred during the course of the trip.

5 -  Video Camera Fees – Though most guests carry their own handycams or digicams, there are provisions for hiring separate video cameras at an additional cost. The same has to be borne by the guests as well.

For More information : palacesonwheels.co.uk

Palace on Wheels Train

India’s premier luxury train, Palace on Wheels, is scheduled to run its first course of the season on September 5, 2012. The train is the flagship luxury sojourn of Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and takes its guests on a scenic 8 day tour of the kingly Indian state of Rajasthan, with 1 day excursions to the wonderful Taj Mahal and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary scheduled. The train is quite popular with both international and local guests and gets sold out a couple of months prior to the beginning of the season. The destinations of the tour include Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra.

The train is a true ambassador of luxury travel and offers quality services and luxury facilities such as personal services of a butler, electronic safes, separate spa cars, souvenir shops, a separate lounge car and on-train entertainment. A salient feature of the train is varying ranges in tariffs to accommodate high and mid-range budgets. It is advisable for would-be guests to make prior booking on this luxury sojourn to avoid any last minute disappointments.