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, Jaywalker, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra.

Palace on wheels Train

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.

For more information on train facilities, itineraries, schedules and facilities, you may like to visit the website of the http://www.indianluxurytrains.com/journeys/palace-on-wheels.html

The richness of India in terms of culture, heritage and tradition are so diverse that to sum it up in a single journey will not be possible. Though uncovering the vast canopy of India’s cultural heritage is certainly not a child’s play, a sneak-peek into the richer aspects of India is still very much within the human reach.

A Scene of Elephant Polo Match - Jaipur

From resplendent edifices to tranquil lakes and from exotic wildlife to rock- cut architectural caves, the two weeklong journeys aboard Indian Maharaja- Deccan Odyssey train constitutes all the aforementioned attractions in the destinations traversed by them. Owned and managed by Travel Corporation of India (TCI), Indian Maharaja is the chartered version of Deccan Odyssey.

Although the journey on board this Indian luxury train stays only for a week but the feeling of cultural contentment will leave you spellbound at the end. Either you begin from Delhi or Mumbai; the destinations traversed are same with the only difference of vice-versa factor. The destinations of Rajasthan certainly dominate the itinerary of this luxury tourist train.

Characterized by forts, palaces, sand dunes and painted havelis, the vast heritage of Rajasthan is seldom rivaled. While Jaipur is famous for its well-planned structure, the beautiful and breathtaking lakes of Udaipur steal the limelight from the rest. The excitement of Rajasthan travel reaches its summit after you arrive at the rim of Ranthambore National Park. Here you can take delight in catching the diverse moods of wild cats in their natural turf which also form the highlight of this wildlife sanctuary.

Other than Rajasthan, the journey also familiarizes you with the cultural harmony and religious tolerance prevalent in India. The perfect example of this fact is the rock-cut caves of Ajanta and Ellora where three different religions- Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism- dwell in perfect harmony. Designated as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, these caves are a must visit for connoisseurs of art and architecture.

The sight of cultural harmony reaches its peak point after the arrival of Indian Maharaja Train in Agra. It is the place which Mughals chose to built their settlements and expanded their rule over India. In other words, Agra is a vast repertoire of Mughal architectural jewels which represents the love and patronage of Mughal rulers for art and architecture. The most precious pearl of Mughal architecture that steal the limelight from the rest is Taj Mahal whose shimmering beauty and account of construction bring global travelers face to face with it.

All in the entire journey on board Indian Maharaja Train culminates on the 8th day after bestowing a feeling of cultural contentment within you. Like all good things come to an end, you bid adieu to this weeklong royal journey which has attained the distinction of getting featured into top ten rail journeys in the world.

The age-old, unrivaled Indian hospitality, luxury, opulence and royalty can now be experienced in a week-long train tour to India. Please welcome our guest, Nikhil Chandra from http://www.indianluxurytrains.com/, to describe the luxury of royal trains and tours in India.

There are number of reason to go for luxury trains when it comes to tours to India. A country with incredible diversity, traveling in India is a real challenge for even fussy travelers. With plethora of variety when it comes to themes and destinations, it is rather difficult to choose where to go, what to see and what to do. Luxury trains in India with a total of 12 master’s creation to choose from offer a comfortable, reliable and hassle free way to discover the gems and treasures of India and see the best of her in shortest possible time.

With all inclusive tour itineraries where you wake up every day in a different destination, traveling aboard luxury trains provides whirlwind tours across some of the most significant destinations in India in ultimate panache and pampering of plush interiors equipped with state of the art amenities. Sumptuous dining in restaurants on board, bar facility lounges for tête-à-tête and nowadays even spa and fitness center add to the opulence of these luxury trains.

Besides, all the off-train excursions are guided and transportation are provided for by the tour operator managing the train. A brief introduction of the 6 Indian luxury trains is mentioned below.

Palace on Wheels

Best Rail Journeys in World : Palace on Wheels,India

Voted 4th Best luxury train in the world, Palace on Wheels happens to be the precursor of luxury rail tours in India. Perhaps the most authentic luxury train in India, Palace on Wheels transports the guests into a more gracious age of traveling. A journey into the “land of maharajas” Rajasthan is designed in a way that the journey itself becomes as fascinating and royal as the destinations. Traditional Indian hospitality, red carpet welcome and exclusive experiences set this rail journey apart from any other rail tour across the world.

Deccan Odyssey 

crisscrossing mesmerizing terrains

Offering voyages across verdant Konkan region and mesmerizing Western Ghats in Maharashtra and Goa, this rail tour offer 8 days tour is a unique way to experience the best of Maratha heartland. Included in the tour are trip to World Heritage Ajanta and Ellora Caves and beach destinations in Konkan and Goa. Equipped with on board restaurants, bar, gymnasium and even a spa, this train journey is the once in a lifetime experience.

Maharajas Express

Best Rail Journeys in World : Maharaja Express,India

No great traveler can say they have aspired to travel until they’ve explored this vast country via India’s legendary railway. Maharajas Express train, with its 5 itineraries offers the most luxurious mode to unravel the varied kaleidoscope of India. Plush interiors, gracious hospitality and an array of exclusive experiences in Rajasthan and Lucknow makes Maharaja train tour truly a journey like no other.

The Golden Chariot

The Golden chariot Luxury Trains

Offering two itineraries across destinations in South Indian states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, this luxury train offers a heady mix of culture, heritage, backwaters and wildlife for which this region in India is renowned.

The Indian Maharaja

The Indian Maharaja - Luxury trains in India

The first privately managed train in India, offers 2 pan-Indian journey from Delhi to Mumbai and Mumbai to Delhi. The journeys spanning over 168 hours unfold the best of Indian heritage, culture and diversity and ensure that you receive service of international standard while regaling in plush interiors.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Luxury trains in India

Another luxury train offering 8 days tours across regal destinations in Rajasthan, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels itinerary also include trip to heartland of Hindu spirituality Varanasi and the World Heritage Khajuraho Group of Monuments bringing out the best of romance and heritage of Northern India.

With only 1 month left for the commencement of Palace on Wheels first seasonal chug, it’s time for you to gear up for Rajasthan tour aboard this Indian luxury train. Although tourists might have already booked for the preferred journey date as per the schedule of Palace on Wheels given below, there are some aspects that must not be overlooked while travelling to a foreign land. Enlisted below are some tips that will facilitate you with a hassle free journey.

Palace on Wheels: All set to embark on a royal journey of Rajasthan

Month	Departure Date
September 2012	5, 12, 19, 26
October 2012	3, 10, 17, 24, 31
November 2012	7 ,14 , 21, 28
December 2012	5 , 12, 19 ,26
January 2013	2 , 9,16 , 23 ,30
February 2013	6 , 13 , 20 ,27
March 2013	6 , 13 , 20 , 27
April 2013	3 , 10 , 17 , 24

Gather all the required travel Documents 

While gearing up for travel especially to a foreign country, one needs to make sure that all your travel documents are in place. Keep all your necessary documents in a file such as passport, visa, insurance, air and train ticket so that they won’t jumble up with the clothes and other accessories in your baggage. Attested photocopies of the original travel documents must be kept as they would help you in case the originals get lost.

Packing the clothes

If you are not an Indian resident, do check the weather conditions of Rajasthan and pack your clothes accordingly. During off train excursions, it is suggested to wear smart casual clothes and comfortable walking shoes because guests on board Palace on Wheels are taken for lunch at five star hotels and cultural programs. If you have opted for winter departure, do make sure to keep warm clothes in your luggage.

Keep Limited Luggage with you

The cabins on board Palace on Wheels have quite less storage space; hence it is advised to carry as per the international airline rules. Also it is recommended that passengers should be carrying soft-topped luggage as they are easy to store.

Pre & Post Hotel Accommodation

In case there is delay in commencement or culmination of this luxury rail journey due to some unforeseen events, it is recommended to book one pre and post night accommodation in a hotel.

For more information on train facilities, itineraries, schedules and facilities, you may like to visit the website of the http://www.palacesonwheels.com/

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels was launched in 2009 to cater to the rising demand of luxury rail journeys in Rajasthan. Designed to traverse the enchanting land of Rajasthan, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels endeavors to put forth best of heritage, culture and royalty of this erstwhile Rajputana state. The interiors of this Indian luxury train have been put to minute detailing to replicate the opulence and elegance of the personal carriages of erstwhile Indian maharajas. Lavishly designed with Ottoman furniture, silk and velvet draperies, sofa chairs and writing tables, the 14 cabins of this regal train takes you to the era of munificent living. Gourmet dining, lounge bar, souvenir coach and spa and wellness centre adds to the luxury and refinement of the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels tour.

Facilities provided on board Royal Rajasthan on Wheels :

Cabins

Deluxe Twin suite Pearl on board Royal Rajasthan on wheels

The 14 luxury cabins housed within the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels have been named after some erstwhile royal palace of Rajasthan. Categorized into Deluxe and Super Deluxe saloons, these cabins come equipped with state of the art amenities such as Wi-Fi internet, Satellite TV, Channel music system and Individual temperature control to provide comforts of a five star hotel. Few cabin names are as follows: Hawa Mahal, Padmini Mahal, Kishori Mahal, Phool Mahal and Super Deluxe Coach Taj Mahal.

Dining & Cuisines

Sheesh Mahal Restaurant on board the Royal Rajasthan on wheels train

The two tastefully appointed eateries of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels namely, Swarn Mahal and Sheesh Mahal, appetizingly serves an array of lip smacking cuisines to pamper the taste buds of epicureans. Both the restaurants are set with a bar to provide choicest wines to accompany your sumptuous cuisines.

Whereas Swarn Mahal is patterned on brass and gold theme, the Sheesh Mahal restaurant features spectacular floor lamps and crystal pelmets. The charm of tasting your scrumptious meals upon handmade cutlery and crockery is fascinating to the hilt.

Souvenir Coach

Pick up souvenir items from this coach in order to take back good memories with you. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels facilities include a souvenir shop.The coach offers various handcrafter products and apparels which include beer mug, embossed leather jewelry product, cruet set, Leather photo frame and various other accessories.

Bar and Lounge

Bar and Lounge on board Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

The two fully equipped bars here at the two restro-lounges Sheesh Mahal & Swarn Mahal serve a wide variety of beverages as well as  an array of international brands of liquor on the two restro-lounges Sheesh Mahal and Swarn Mahal on the Royal Train. The fully equipped bar on the train serves selected brands on Aperitif, Malt, Whisky, Scotch, Rum, Vodka, Cognac, Wines and Champagne. These premium delights have been put to serve your palette better.

Spa and Recreation

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels brings to you the finest spa services on board

Pamper you nerves with an array of rejuvenating spa therapies and massages provided on board this luxury train to revitalize your mind, body and soul. The spa at the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels also deals with therapies and massages. The travelers would feel revitalized after each session. The house of Amatrra is responsible for the products that are put to use in the spa of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels.

Additional Facilities : The hospitality at the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is unmatched. However, there are some additional facilities available as well at the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels like no smoking, newspapers, wi-fi connectivity, magazines, large windows, laundry services, individual temperature control benefits, safes, channel music systems, 110/120 V sockets, public address systems, mailboxes, board games, foreign exchange counters, books and transport.