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Palace on Wheels: A Week in Wonderland

8 Days (7 Nights)
Palace on Wheels: A Week in Wonderland

Overview

Framed around the award winning Palace on Wheels luxury train, this tour allows you to enjoy the splendors of ancient and modern India. As soon as you step onboard the train in Delhi, and travel towards the former princely city of Jaipur you can visit palaces, forts and ride on elephants like a maharaja. Then in the “City Of Lakes” Udaipur, you can lunch in a palace hall, before you head to Jaisalmer to bask in the raw beauty of the Thar Desert and ride camel carts. This lovely journey above all else, will allow you to create a indelible memory as you view tigers in the wild, or gaze at the beauty of the Taj Mahal.

Itinerary

Your Itinerary

Safdarjung Tomb, Delhi: Mughal Architecture | Palace Tours
Day 1

NEW DELHI

You step into the vibrant tapestry of New Delhi, where the past and present intertwine, awakening a sense of wonder within you. As you gaze upon the majestic Humayun's Tomb and the towering Qutub Minar, you feel a deep connection to history, sparking joy and curiosity about the stories they carry.

With each visit to the serene Birla Temple and the sacred Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, a profound peace envelops you, inviting reflection and gratitude. As the day draws to a close, anticipation builds within as you prepare to embark on your journey aboard the Palace on Wheels, where unforgettable memories await, ready to transform your future.

Full Day Details
Highlights Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, Birla Temple, Bangla Sahib Gurdwara
Experience Cultural immersion and historical exploration in New Delhi
Destination NEW DELHI
Full Itinerary Wednesday: Join us on a sightseeing tour of Delhi via air-conditioned vehicle beginning at 9:00 a.m.* You may visit sights such as Humayun's Tomb and the impressive Qutub Minar built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibek in 1199 from sandstone and marble. Drive past India Gate (War Memorial Arch), the President's House and Parliament House. Enjoy visits to Birla Temple and Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, the largest Sikh house of worship in Delhi. Later you are dropped off at Safdarjang train station around 4:30 in the afternoon to embark on the journey of a lifetime... a week-long luxury cruise through fascinating Rajasthan on board the Palace on Wheels.   *A complimentary hotel pick up within Delhi city limits is provided prior to the sightseeing tour.
Amber Fort, Jaipur: Palace Tour in Rajasthan, India
Day 2

JAIPUR

You step into the enchanting realm of Jaipur, where the air is thick with the scent of history and the vibrant hues of the Pink City awaken your senses. As you gaze upon the intricate façades of Hawa Mahal, a sense of wonder envelops you, igniting a spark of joy that resonates deep within.

Each moment spent at the majestic Amber Fort and the City Palace enriches your soul, connecting you to a heritage that transcends time. You find peace riding atop a gentle elephant, feeling the rhythm of its movement as whispers of the past fill your heart, crafting memories that will forever illuminate your journey.

Full Day Details
Highlights Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, City Palace, elephant ride, Jantar Mantar
Experience Royal fort exploration and heritage city tour
Destination JAIPUR
Full Itinerary Thursday: The first stop of Palace on Wheels is Jaipur, one of the most well planned cities of the world in its time. This capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City, was founded by Maharaja Swai Jai Singh II in 1727 A.D. To explore the city, an air-conditioned coach takes you to Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, which is a remarkable five story building along the main street of the old city in pink splendor with semi-octagonal and delicate honeycombed sandstone windows. This is followed by a visit to Amber Fort, eight kms. away, where rides on caparisoned elephants add to the ambiance. Later, you may enjoy shopping for Jaipur’s famous jewelry, handicrafts, carpets, blue pottery and textiles. After lunch at a Palace Hotel, you are off to the City Palace, home of the erstwhile royal family. Right across the road from the City Palace is the Jantar Mantar, the largest observatory built by the Sawai Jai Singh II. The luxury coaches take you back to Palace on Wheels where dinner is served on board.
Bengal Tiger Portrait, India Wildlife Tour | Palace Tours
Day 3

CHITTORGARH & SAWAI MADHOPUR

You awaken to the whispers of the wild, feeling a deep connection with nature as you step into the heart of Ranthambore National Park. Each breath fills you with wonder, as the thrill of witnessing a majestic tiger in its natural habitat ignites a spark of joy within you, reminding you of the beauty of life.

This adventure not only stirs your senses but also enriches your spirit, allowing you to embrace the wild side of your own existence.As you wander through the ancient Chittaurgarh Fort, the echoes of valor and love resonate in your heart.

Full Day Details
Highlights Ranthambore National Park, Chittaurgarh Fort, tiger sightings, cultural exploration
Experience Wildlife adventure and storied fort exploration
Destination CHITTORGARH & SAWAI MADHOPUR
Full Itinerary Friday: One can almost sense a life of the wilderness as the Palace on Wheels arrives in Sawai Madhopur, a city named after its founder Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. After breakfast, visit the Ranthambore National Park, where the ruins of a 10th century fort are located. This wildlife sanctuary is considered to be the country’s best for observing and photographing the activities of the tiger. The park, covering an area of 392 sq.kms. is also home to more than 300 species of birds. The tiger, hyena, ratel, jackal and fox are among those constituting the carnivorous population here. Sawai Madhopur is known for its exclusive toys, ethnic ornaments and costumes. (Please note that the Ranthambore National Park is closed during the month of September, instead guests will be taken to Mansigh Sanctuary.)  Upon return to the Palace on Wheels, depart for Chittaurgarh, where you have the opportunity to watch the colorful countryside passing by in the daylight.   After lunch on board you are in Chittaurgarh. Images of love and valor, scars of battles won and lost, the thrice-beseiged Chittaurgarh Fort is all this and more. Let the legends of honor and pride echo in your mind as you proceed to Udaipur.
Lake Pichola Sunset, Udaipur: Palace Tours India
Day 4

UDAIPUR

You awaken in Udaipur, where the air is imbued with a sense of magic, and the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola invite you to discover the serenity that lies within.

As you stand before the ethereal Jag Niwas, you feel a profound connection to the history that surrounds you, igniting a spark of wonder that awakens your soul.Your visit to the majestic City Palace envelops you in a tapestry of vibrant colors and intricate designs, each corner whispering tales of love and valor.

Full Day Details
Highlights Jag Niwas, Jag Mandir, Lake Pichola, City Palace, crystal gallery
Experience A day of serene discovery and royal heritage
Destination UDAIPUR
Full Itinerary Saturday: Arrive this morning in Udaipur, the Lake City, which was founded by Maharana Udai Singh of Mewar in 1559 A.D. after the Sisodia dynasty was driven away by the Mughals. Perhaps the two most beautiful sites of Udaipur are the dream-like marble palaces - the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) and the Jag Mandir, which appear to rise from the blue waters of Lake Pichola. After lunch at one of the fine hotels, take an exhilirating visit to City Palace. In the evening, visit the crystal gallery and later proceed to Jaisalmer on board Palace on Wheels.
Female tourist on camel safari at the Thar desert Jaisalmer Rajasthan at sunset with view of camel caravan.
Day 5

JAISALMER

You stand before the majestic yellow sandstone fort of Jaisalmer, feeling a sense of wonder wash over you as history whispers through its ancient walls. Each intricate detail of the havelis you explore invites a deep connection to a time long past, igniting your imagination and sparking joy that resonates within.

As you glide over the sand dunes on a camel, the rhythm of the desert soothes your soul, and the golden hues of the sunset embrace you like a warm hug. With every sip of refreshing tea, you savor the moment, knowing these memories will forever enrich your journey through life.

Full Day Details
Highlights Jaisalmer Fort, Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli, camel ride in Sam
Experience Desert adventure and cultural immersion
Destination JAISALMER
Full Itinerary Sunday: In the heart of the Thar Desert lies Jaisalmer, founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 A.D. Here the yellow sandstone fort is an imposing sight, towering magnificently over the city. Discover the painstakingly latticed havelis or mansions with their grand facades. The Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli are fine examples of the stone carver’s skill. Shop at Rajasthali, the only Rajasthan Govt. Emporium, for fine pattu shawls, mirror work, embroidered articles, wooden boxes, trinkets, silver jewelry and curios. After lunch on board, go for an exciting camel ride on the sand dunes of Sam before sipping a refreshing cup of tea. Enjoy dinner and the cultural programs at a hotel in Jaisalmer before the train leaves tonight for Jodhpur.
aerial view of jodhpur at dusk
Day 6

JODHPUR

You step into the vibrant embrace of Jodhpur, where the rich hues of blue homes and the towering Mehrangarh Fort awaken a sense of wonder within you.

Each corner you turn reveals a tapestry of history and artistry, igniting joy and a profound connection to the past. As you explore the intricate palaces, you feel a spark of inspiration, reminding you of the beauty of human creativity and resilience.Wandering through the market, the delightful scents of spices and the warmth of local craftsmanship envelop you, evoking a deep sense of peace and belonging.

Full Day Details
Highlights Mehrangarh Fort, Moti Mahal, Jaswant Thada, local markets
Experience Heritage exploration and cultural immersion in Jodhpur
Destination JODHPUR
Full Itinerary Monday: This morning, the Palace on Wheels arrives in Jodhpur, a city ringed by a high stone wall with seven gates and several bastions. This second largest city of Rajasthan, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 A.D. is known for its rock-solid Mehrangarh Fort. The grand palaces within - Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are impressive examples of architectural excellence. Near the fort complex lies Jaswant Thada and a group of royal cenotaphs made of white marble. After lunch at a royal Palace hotel, return to the Palace on Wheels. While in Jodhpur, shop for exquisite handcrafted articles including the famous breeches, embroidered shoes, metal curios, silverware, paintings and tie dyed fabrics.
Taj Mahal, India: Luxury Palace Tours & Reflections
Day 7

AGRA & BHARATPUR

You awaken to the serene beauty of Bharatpur, where the soft melodies of chirping birds envelop you, awakening a sense of peace deep within.

As you wander through the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, each flutter and call connects you to nature, grounding you in the present moment and igniting a joy that resonates in your soul.Your heart swells with awe as you stand before the majestic Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of love that transcends generations.

Full Day Details
Highlights Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, marble inlay work
Experience Birdwatching and exploring the wonders of Agra
Destination AGRA & BHARATPUR
Full Itinerary Tuesday: Early this morning, the train arrives in Bharatpur, the capital of Maharaja Suraj Mal. After breakfast, pay a visit to the world famous bird sanctuary, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the nesting place of thousands of egrets, Siberian cranes, migratory water fowl and other species of birds. From Bharatpur you board the train again and arrive at the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. This pristine monument of undying love was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. Also visit Agra Fort and see other monuments and tombs about town. Agra is known for its splendid marble inlay work like the Pietra Dura work on the Taj, leather goods and jewelry. Enjoy dinner on board as the train departs for Delhi.
Red Fort, Delhi: Historic Mughal Architecture | Palace Tours
Day 8

NEW DELHI

As dawn breaks over New Delhi, you awaken with a heart full of cherished memories, each moment from your journey echoing in your soul. The vibrant city awaits, a tapestry of colors and sounds, inviting you to reflect on the wonder you've experienced, the connections you've forged, and the joy that fills your spirit.

With every step you take, you feel a renewed sense of purpose and adventure, as the sights of Safdarjang's grandeur remind you of the beauty in exploration. This day is not just an end, but a beginning, as you carry the essence of your journey forward, forever transformed by the treasures of your heart.

Full Day Details
Highlights Safdarjang Tomb, India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar
Experience A reflective journey through the heart of New Delhi
Destination NEW DELHI
Full Itinerary Wednesday: After a good night’s sleep, arrive at the Safdarjang train station at 6:00 a.m. and let the pleasant memories of the past week linger on your mind for a long, long time. Enjoy breakfast on board. Disembark the train by 7:30 a.m.

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Terms & Conditions

PAYMENT TERMS:
25% of total tour cost due at the time of booking
75% or balance no later than 90 days prior to tour departure date
1.5 % of ticket price will be charged if the balance payment is not made within 90 days prior to the departure 
 
Taxes will be calculated and payable with the balance payment. At the time of printing Tax is 5% of total tour value.

CANCELLATION FEES:

  • Minimum 20% gross value of the train ticket will be levied as Cancellation Fee if the tickets cancelled before 90 days or more left for Tour Departure.
  • Minimum 25% gross value of the train ticket will be levied as Cancellation Fee if the tickets cancelled before 75 Days or more left but not more than 89 days for Tour Departure.
  • 100% gross value of the train ticket will be levied as Cancellation Fee if the tickets cancelled before 74 days or less left for Tour Departure.

No-Shows/ En-Route Termination:

  • In case of No-Show / Non-arrival of the guest, refund or adjustment for future travel will not be applicable. The whole amount shall be treated as forfeited.
  • In case of En-route termination of tour by the guest, for any reasons refund or adjustment will not be applicable. The amount for unused portion of the tour shall be treated as forfeited.

Tour Amendments:

  • All Amendments are subject to Approvals from authorised team of Palace on Wheels.
  • Amendments only possible under the circumstances like Natural Disaster / Natural Calamity or Serious Health Problems (this needs to be supported by doctor's certificate) and is subject to approval.
  • No refunds are possible, and every case will be decided on merits on a case-to-case basis. No amendment will be permissible in case of booking of groups or complete train.

General Rules:

  • Cancellation rules to be applicable in case travel documents or pending payments are not received as per booking terms & conditions.
  • In special case-where travel date of same passengers needs to be postponed to future specific dates, minimum US$ 100 per person will be charged & the same will be subject to availability and approvals.
  • Request for refund of advance/full payment, due to death or serious illness of passenger will be at sole discretion of management of Palace on Wheels.
  • In case a scheduled train tour departure is cancelled for any reason by the train tour operator (RTDC), the guest will be informed at least one week prior to the departure. In such cases, the full amount received will be refunded to the guest without any cancellation fee.
  • Palace on Wheels or its associated entities can not be held liable to compensate for any additional Financial Loss caused viz Fee towards Cancellation of Air Tickets, Hotel Booking etc or if any Mental Trauma caused. No Interest or compensation will be payable in case of Tour Cancellation by tour operator.
  • Requests for refunds due to refusal of an Indian visa will not be entertained. Similarly, overseas passengers arriving in India without proper travel documents will be governed by the cancellation rules.
  • No refund will be made in case of no-show or self-curtailment of journey..
  • Unwillingness to undertake the train tour as per the schedule will render the booking non-refundable.

IMPORTANT ADVISORY

  • We strongly suggest all guests to pre-purchase Tour Insurance from country of origin of travel.
  • From the 3rd week of December to the 3rd week of January, North India typically experiences heavy fog conditions, and passengers are advised to arrive in New Delhi at least one day prior during this period.
  • Liability of Principal train Tour Operator is limited to as defined in Indian Railways Act.
  • Please add 3 days to the above schedule for cancellation in order to accommodate any changes and communication between USA and India
  • Disputes (if any) are subject to jurisdiction of courts at Jaipur (Rajasthan) only.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover any losses incurred in case of cancellation. For information on available plans or to purchase travel insurance, please visit www.palacetours.com/insurance.
In case of a refund, 15% administrative fee of the tour cost will be applicable before refund calculations

Inclusions & Exclusions

Minimum/maximum purchase of 7 nights required.  No refund given for unused portions of the tour.

Children up to 12 years of age at time of travel are priced at 50% of the adult tariff. 

The tariff is inclusive of:

  • Delhi sightseeing tour on Day 01 with the group and drop-off at the train station.
  • Palace on Wheels 7-night tour, including cost of travel & accommodation per the itinerary
  • Full catering (morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea, and dinner)
  • Tea, coffee and bottled water
  • Conducted sightseeing tours in deluxe coaches
  • Service of a local English-speaking guide for all sightseeing tours
  • Entrance fees for monuments and palaces as specified in the itinerary
  • Cultural entertainment

Tariff does NOT include:

  • Domestic or international airfare
  • Travel insurance or visa fees
  • Liquor, soft drinks, juices, wine or beer
  • Camera fees at monuments
  • Laundry services, additional toiletries, gratuities, souvenirs or any items of a personal nature
  • Any services in Delhi not specified as included, such as sightseeing, transfers, or hotel accommodations
  • Any items not specifically mentioned as included.
  • Monument entrance fees during tour of Delhi
 
Taxes for all tours in India are calculated and are due 30 days prior to departure, at the applicable rate in accordance to the Indian government guidelines. Payments for taxes are expected in the form of a check to Palace Tours. If payment is made by credit card a surcharge of 5% will be applied. Taxes should be paid before any travel documents are issued.
 
At the time of printing there is a 5% tax on total cost and commercial tax of USD 15 per person.  

Accommodations

Palace on Wheels cabin details 

  • Each cabin measures about 9x14 feet and there three cabins (State Rooms) per carriage
  • There are two Presidential Suites (Super Deluxe Suites) on the train that occupy one train carriage.
  • Each cabin has twin beds positioned side by side and can be put together to make a matrimonial style bed.
  • Intercom facility 
  • Wall to wall carpets
  • Channel music
  • Television
  • Sockets with 220 volt electricity
  • Attached bathroom with shower and toilet measuring 4x8 feet 
  • Hot and cold water 24/7
  • Access to irons / ironing done by attendants
  • Laundry service is available (charges apply)
  • Hair Dryer
  • Free toiletries are provided at arrival
  • Free stationery for writing letters and leaving feedback
  • Complimentary mineral water
  • Complimentary tea and coffee
  • Safe for valuables 
  • Fully air-conditioned
  • CD Player
  • Wi-Fi Internet (extra charges might apply)

 

Restaurants
Two restaurants styled after palaces are onboard this train and they are named “The Maharaja" and "The Maharani". Within these restaurants that come with Rajasthani décor you will find Continental, Indian and Chinese dishes created by a chef and his team.

Spa Car
In the spa car onboard the train, you can rest and relax after a day of touring palaces and forts.  

Bar 
Indian and international liquor is served in the bar onboard the train and each carriage also has a number of books in a library. 

Carriage details
There are three cabins in each carriage and there is a mini pantry included. Hot and cold beverages are prepared in the pantry and you can rest and relax. Khidmatgars (personal attendants) will be at hand to provide you with any assistance required and fix any beverages you need.

Lounge
In the lounge you can spend your time reading magazines and newspapers. There are also five laptops available onboard the train and you can check with the train manager for details about these if you need to use them.

 

Frequently Asked Questions & Tips

1 Hi, what does double rate and triple rate stands for? We are two adults and two children aged 5 and 6 years. What kind of accomodation is recommended for us?

A Double Rate means per person rate for two people in the room on a sharing basis. A Triple rate is for 3 passengers in a room. Triple occupancy can only be accommodated for passengers traveling with children under the age of 12 (2 adults and 1 child - OR - 1 adult and 2 children). For a family of four with young children you will be best accommodated in two double rooms (children pay half price). Side by Side Rooms can be requested. There is no restriction in children sleeping in the same room as parents if the party so desires. You can also choose one triple (with 2 children) and one single room.

2 How soon should I book?

Our recommendation is to book as soon as you have an idea of when you would be traveling. Lately, the rooms for peak season get sold out 8-10 months before departure, so it will be in your best interest to book early in order to avoid disappointment later.

3 Is there a waiting list for Sold Out Dates

Yes, we maintain a waiting list for the sold out departure dates for the Palace on Wheels. You can add yourself to our waiting list by proceeding to our tour booking engine and clicking on the sold-out departure date that you desire.

4 When should I plan on arriving in Delhi

We recommend you arrive in Delhi one to two days prior to the train's date of departure, depending on your itinerary. This will allow enough time for possible flight delays which are common during the winters (December through February) due to climactic conditions such as snow storms or fog in Delhi. This may also allow you time to rest after your long plane flight and afford you some time for sightseeing in Delhi prior to your train journey. International flights typically reach Delhi late at night or in the very early hours of the morning (i.e. from the USA, you should plan to leave on a Sunday evening, which will bring you to Delhi on Monday night/Tuesday morning). We pick guests up from the hotel at 9:00 AM on the day of the departure and take them to a sight seeing tour of Delhi and then dropoff at the Train Station at about 17:00 Hours.

5 When should I plan on departing from Delhi

The train is scheduled to arrive in Delhi on the Wednesday following your departure date at 06:00 a.m.  Passengers will be offered breakfast on board. You must disembark the train no later than 07:30 a.m. In case the train is delayed due to fog (from December-February), the earliest flight we recommend for leaving Delhi would be in the late afternoon. If you have an entire day before departing Delhi (i.e. for international flights leaving on Wednesday night / Thursday morning), we recommend checking in at a hotel in the city center and spending time at leisure or sightseeing in Delhi and its environs.

 

6 What is the capacity of the train?

There are 39 State Rooms on the train and 2 Super Deluxe Suites. They are allocated to single and double occupancies. The number of passengers really depends on the occupancies sold in that departure. There are usually 82 passengers on any fully-booked tour.

 

 

7 What kind of food is served on the train

Rajasthani, Chinese, Continental and American food is served on the train. Fixed menus vary daily. Please notify the chef or train manager of any special orders, dietary restrictions or food allergies.

8 Is smoking allowed on board

Palace on Wheels provides a non-smoking environment.

9 Are there different types of rooms (suites, standard rooms etc.) on board Palace on Wheels?

Yes, the Palace on Wheels contains 39 State Rooms and 2 Super Deluxe Suites. Each cabin measures about 9x14 feet and there three cabins (State Rooms) per carriage. The two Presidential Suites (Super Deluxe Suites) occupy one train carriage. Each cabin has twin beds positioned side by side and can be put together to make a matrimonial style bed. All rooms on the Palace on Wheels have attached bathrooms / toilets. Passengers in the room do not share the bathrooms with anyone else. The interior decor changes in the coaches but as far as the rooms are concerned, all single and double occupancy State Rooms are the same size, approximately 9x14 feet, including the closet and private bathroom which measures approximately 4x8 feet. 

10 Is room service available?

Yes, there are two attendants per carriage meaning two attendants assigned to three cabins. The attendants will be happy to cater to all of your needs.

11 What is the weather like?

September and April are warm with the temperature ranging between 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. In October, November, late February and March it is typically 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. In December and January it is much cooler, between 45-70 degrees Fahrenheit, and you may experience foggy conditions.

12 Where is the railway station in Delhi? Will it be busy?

The Safdarjang Railway Station is located in south Delhi, near the diplomatic enclave, approximately 30 minutes’ drive from the city center. Please note that the station is not well-equipped for long periods of waiting, so we recommend enjoying other parts of the city prior to your Palace on Wheels boarding time.

13 Do I have to stay aboard all seven nights?

You are not required to stay aboard the train for seven nights. However, as the train follows a fixed itinerary, you will be responsible for your own transportation to/from your points of embarkation/disembarkation, for any hotels you use during the journey, for meals taken while separated from the group, etc. 

14 What expenses will I have during the trip?

Palace on Wheels is a very inclusive experience, so you will not need to pay for any meals, water/tea/coffee, sightseeing, monument entrances or accommodations. You will incur additional cost if you choose to purchase any wine, alcohol, soft drinks, or juices; laundry services; additional toiletries; camera fees at monuments; sightseeing, transfers, or other services in Delhi; gratuities; and/or souvenirs / items of personal nature.

15 Are there any other facilities available on the train?

There is a bar, lounge, spa, indoor games and a mailbox for outgoing posts.

16 Do I need a Visa for India?
All visitors to India need a Visa
17 Do you help with getting a Visa

Unfortunately, we don't offer Visa assistance but we can provide you with all the information that you need for getting a visa to India

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