Luxury Trains India

Palace on Wheels was derived from the royal background Personal railway coaches which were originally meant for: the princely states of Rajputana, Gujrat, the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Viceroy of British India.
The Palace on Wheels started as a unique holiday train hauled by a steam engine with its inaugural trip on 26th January 1982.

It has gained remarkable success and attained worldwide acclaim and popularity.It has been rates as one of the ten best luxurious rail journeys in the world.This train has 14 coaches all named after the famous Rajasthan cities. Welcome on board!

The capital city of modern India, a city known for it’s rich, valorous and exotic history. Once the fabled city of the heroes of the Mahabharata, and ruled by the Rajputs before they were displaced by foreign invaders. The tour starts in the evening with a ceremonial welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels at Delhi Cantonment. The train will depart at 1745 hours. Dinner will be served on board the train. Overnight.

Jaipur, the Pink City, known for it’s colourful and fascinating Architecture. Your tour begins next morning with the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds, followed by a visit to the Amber Fort, riding on canopied elephants in pomp and royal style of ancient maharajas.

After indulging oneself in shopping at Rajasthali, the State’s Handicrafts emporium for souvenirs and crafts, an exotic and sumptuous lunch awaits you at the majestic Rambagh Palace. The home of the erstwhile rulers, The City Palace, now a museum, full of royal splendor and the amazing Jantar Mantar – Astronomical Observatory, are to be explored at leisure. In the evening after a cultural program of enthralling dance and music, dinner is a celebration under the canopy of the star-lit skies at exotic Jai Mahal Palace.

22.30 hours
The train departs from the Pink City at 22.30 hours. Jaipur became the capital of the Kachchwaha dynasty when they shifted here from their hilltop fort of Amber. It was built according to the principles laid down in the ancient Architectural Treatises, but with all the opulence deserving to a royal city. At its center rose the seven-tiered palace of the royal family, and around it came up gardens and temples, its Astronomical Observatory and the myriad’s of mansions and business houses.

Spend the day in this isolated, but Architecturally, one of the greatest Royal Bastions of the World. After a safari dinner served under the stars, at a campsite, come back to the train to resume your journey.

Jaisalmer was the stronghold for the Bhatti Rajputs, and a hardier race never lived. Bandit marked their earlier settlement, as they looted caravans at will, stealing horses, and inviting the wrath of the West Asian invaders. Over time they began to settle, the 12th century fort with its ninety-nine bristling bastions was established on top of Trikuta hill, exactly as prophesied for these descendants of Krishna. Isolated Jaisalmer may have been a lost city in the sands of the Thar, more mythic than real for those of who heard it, but the caravans that passed through its territories enriched the coffers of the treasury. It also kept Jaisalmer in touch with the world, for such caravans carried not merely goods but also artisans and master-craftsmen.

The Maharawalas of Jaisalmer thought little of making use of their services to build the magnificent, sandstone architecture for which it has become known around the world. However, even more magnificent, along the cobbled stone pathways of the fort, arose the havelis, the mansions of the Jain merchants who were as powerful in the court of the time, as they were adept in business. Their homes are poetry of sandstone, carved and pierced incredibly into different patterns, and though they are opulent and effusive, the result is in perfect harmony, and never offending the eye.

Not only is Jaisalmer’s Architecture magnificent, the meandering lanes, the many homes within the ramparts and the resounding rhythms of the Langa and Manganiyar musicians have frozen this citadel into a medieval time warp. Escape from here to the desert sands around the fort, and see them drift in the breeze, or take a Camel ride, or simply enjoy the mesmeric dances of its folk performers. So must the kings have watched over their kingdom- However, you no longer need to travel to Jaisalmer in a caravan; your carriage is a luxurious train – fitting in the royal context. Enjoy dinner and cultural program.
23.00 hours, Depart for Jodhpur

Its time for you to visit yet another desert kingdom, Jodhpur, where you arrive at 08.00hours. You can spend the morning at Mehrangarh Fort that towers over the city like an eagle’s eyrie and then come downhill to lunch at Umaid Bhawan Palace, the largest art-deco residence in the world and now home to the head of the royal family, museum and luxury hotel.

The 500 year old history of Jodhpur, the bastion of the valiant Rathore Rajputs, bristles with conflicts and sieges, with battles and savage skirmishes, so it is difficult to believe that they found the time to not only build the impossibly invincible looking Mehrangarh Fort. It’s lavish and delicately embellished palaces.

Within the Fort, reached by a steep path with huge guarding at its turns and places at angles, to prevent elephants from storming them, are a large number of apartments where the maharaja’s retainers now serve as guides. Within, the apartments are painted and gilded and have windows and balconies to allow them an uninterrupted view of the desert around it, now peopled with homes. The vintage battle arms of the royal past are well presented – swords and daggers and spears and matchlock guns; a battle tent seized from Emperor Jehangir; howdahs and chariots and carriages; cribs and beds; the royal, octagonal throne; musical instruments, large drums, even a collection of turbans. From the ramparts of the fort, where the cannons are still mounted, the sweeping view also takes in a huge palace located on top of another lower hill.

This is Umaid Bhavan, the palace the Maharajas set out to build as a famine relief project, but also ambitiously as the World’s largest private residence. It was intended to and did rival the presidential palace coming up then in Delhi. Build by a British Architect; while the planning has incorporated the elements of the Rajput life-style (large county yards, for example, or a zenana wing), there is a formal western sense of symmetry and restrained sense of ornamentation. Only in the royal suites does exuberance take over, since a Polish artist, then traveling in India, was given the permission to create huge paintings to suit the art-deco theme of the architecture and furniture in the palace.

The grounds of the palace are huge and towards the back, there is a bougainvillea garden, perhaps the only of its kind in the world, and at the end, a Baradari, a pillared pavilion where the maharajas held Mehfils, entertainment courts. Within the palace the courtrooms are more formal, while the ballrooms resounded, till recently, with the sounds of revelry, now captured in the whispered conversations of tourists.

15. 30 hours, Departure, after unwinding and relaxing at the palace. Dinner and overnight on board.

Steam into Sawai Madhopur, to spend the day in the wilds of Ranthambhor where your hosts are, of course, royal. Ranthambhor National Park is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, the most majestic of the big cats, and magnificent in its agility and grace. As it moves through the underbrush, its tawny gold hide striped with black bands, merges with nature, and the jungle stands to attention. Ranthambhor is also very picturesque.

A number of lakes from the shallow land where tiger sightings are quite common, and where herds of deer can be seen foraging, while crocodiles bask in the sun. The lofty hills ring the park, and in the distance, the ramparts of Ranthambhor fort create a dramatic silhouette. Once, this was the scene for fierce battles, and for fiery Jauhars, but all that is of the past now, though former-hunting lodges such as Jogi Mahal, close to the lakes, is still retains its former grandeur and glory. Ranthambhor is particularly well known for its tiger sightings because the undisturbed ambiance and the spreading, shallow lakes provide them the surroundings best suited to their needs, and therefore sightings by daytime are quite common. Various conservationists and wildlife photographers have worked at length here to document the life cycle of the tigresses of Ranthambhor, even giving them names, so that they are now a part of the regional lore.

Since the best time to visit the park is early morning. *11.00 hours.Leaves for its destination, Chittaurgarh.

15.30 hours. Arrival at Chittaurgarh.
Chittaurgarh is India’s most valorous fort, its history an unending saga of passion, chivalry and romance. Within its sprawling ramparts were beautiful palaces, but few of them remain, the fort having been sacked by invaders. Lunch and dinner are served on board the train.

Arrive, Udaipur, the capitals of the Sisodia Maharanis, enjoy pre-eminence among the Rajput clans of Rajasthan. Spend the day sight seeing at Udaipur.

Lunch is at Lake Palace, the beautiful island palace built as a summer resort by the royal family, and now converted into one of the world’s finest hotels. The train departs again at 20.00 hours, and dinner will be served on board.

Maharana Udai Singh, laid the foundation for a new kingdom-Udaipur-situated by Lake Pichola, where the impressive City Palace was lavished with aesthetic and imaginative works of art, and the art of miniature painting was encouraged as decor-et-al. Subsequently, the princes built the seemingly floating Island Palace, the royal summer retreat, offering a spectacular view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Besides the Lake Palace, there are other such retreats that have been converted into modern hotels, one of them, Shiv Niwas, being run by the current head of the family.

A graceful, valorous race, the Sisodias and their city bring alive the excitement of a medieval kingdom as it once was, and with a little imagination.

It must be Bharatpur. Arrive at a royal kingdom where the Jats, rather than the Rajputs, ruled. Bharatpur’s Jat history is not too old, with Suraj Mal establishing a firm stronghold in a region contested by both the Rajputs and the Mughals. Suraj Mal’s exploits are legendary, and the fort, Lohargarh, or Iron Fort has a history that recounts it with pride.

The only fort in the state to have bastions of mud, these proved meritorious because they simply swallowed up the cannon shells, not allowing them to impact. However, it is not for its fort, or palace, or even the close by fortified resort of Deeg that passengers of the Palace on Wheels are here; Their attention is drawn to the bird sanctuary, one of the finest in the world. The Keoladeo Ghana National Park was developed by a royal edict when dykes were created so that water could be canalized for the hunting preserve at the maharaja of Bharatpur wished to create. In the early decade of this century, Bharatpur became famous among visiting British royalty and aristocracy for the amount of game the visitors bagged. These days, thankfully, only shooting by cameras is permitted in this sanctuary with over three hundred species of birds, many of them migrant species that come from parts as distant as Siberia and China.
1030 hours

After visiting the sanctuary in the morning, visitors travel by couch to Fatehpur Sikri, the red sandstone city build by Emperor Akbar on a lavish scale, but which he had to abandon soon after because of shortage of water.

15.00 hours
From here to Agra, first for lunch at hotel and then for a visit to the world’s most well known monument and well worth its fame; The Taj Mahal. Built in the memory of his beloved empress by Emperor Shah Jahan, this marble mausoleum is the greatest gesture of love known to mankind, and is breathtakingly, bewitchingly beautiful. Land for the building of the Taj Mahal in Agra came from the maharaja of Jaipur and the marble used in its construction was from the mines of Makrana, also in Rajasthan. The precious stones used in its inlay, and the craftsmen employed for the twenty-two years its construction took, came not only from India, but from all over the World. The Taj Mahal is the perfect finale to your Royal Sojourn.

20.00 hours
Palace on wheels departs for Delhi. Dinner and overnight on board.

Arrive Delhi. Breakfast on board the train. Disembark and proceed for your onward destination.

Hope you enjoyed Journey of Indian Maharajas- Luxury train

Welcome aboard a fascinating journey through the many worlds of Karnataka. Embark on a luxurious voyage of discovery through the Cradle of Stone Architecture. THE GOLDEN CHARIOT train named after the famous Stone Chariot in Hampi, a world heritage site, in Southern India will travel through timeless Historical Heritage Sites, Resplendent Palaces, Wildlife and Golden Beaches.

It’s 7 Nights / 8 Days colorful journey begins every Monday from Bangalore and traverses through Mysore, visiting Srirangapatna, Mysore Palace; the Nagarhole National Park (Kabini) and continuing to the historical sites of Shravanabelagola, Belur-the 11th century cradle of Hoysala architecture and a world heritage site, Halebidu, Hampi and thereafter entering into the triangular heritage site of Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole, and finally the Golden Beaches of Goa before ending in Bangalore.

Places covered : Bangalore – Mysore – Kabini – Hassan – Belur – Sravanbelagola – Hampi – Aihole & Pattadakal – Badami – Goa – Bangalore

From The Palace to your Chamber
Your chambers are steeped in history. Chambers in which, you will retire under a sky of craftsmanship that narrate timeless tales. Sink into a bed of royalty, reminiscent of the Mysore Maharajas, admire the intricate carvings on the ceiling, the wall panels and furniture inspired by Mysore and Hoysala architecture.
Each Coach of the “The Golden Chariot” has been named after the dynasties that ruled Karnataka – Kadamba, Hoysala,Rastrakota, Ganga, Chalukya, Bhahamani, Adhilshahi, Sangama, Shathavashna, Yudukula and Vijayanagar.

Fully air-conditioned cabins.
26 twin beds, 17 double bed cabins and 1 cabin for the physically challenged.Every cabin is equipped with Wi-Fi, LCD television, DVD with 6 satellite channels, wardrobe, vanity/writing desk and private bathroom with luxurious amenities and accessories. Nala and Ruchi – Two Restaurants A Culinary tour of fine taste. Nala named after a king and legendary chef from the times of the Mahabharata. Ruchi, a name that means fine taste in Sanskrit. The two restaurants serve a spread of vegetarian and non-vegetarian culinary delights. Interiors inspired by the timeless aesthetics of Hampi and Halebid. 4-seater and 2-seater dining cabins with comfortable sofas and chairs.

Madira – The Lounge Bar
Spirit for your soul.Timeless like the spirits we serve, Madira, the mythical drink of the gods in the lounge bar aboard The Golden Chariot. Pour yourself fine spirits as you unravel your soul, as you watch performances of local artisans. Celebrate the journey into timelessness as lilting music uplifts you. Relaxing and elegant seating at bar. Plush and royal interiors modeled after the Mysore Palace.

Conference Coach
Where modern day royalty does business. The Golden Chariot Conference Coach can seat up to 30 business leaders and gives you lessons in history and leaves with a vision for the future.Seating capacity of 25-30 guests. 42 inch LCD television. High-speed internet surfing area.

Gym Coach
Experience Eternity. Attain Nirvana.

At the Ayurveda centre, Spa and gym on The Golden Chariot, discover age old traditions and cures to modern day stress.Two massage rooms for an out of this world rejuvenation experience. For those who prefer a local flavour – Ayurveda massages are provided. Fully equipped gymnasium.

RDV at Taj West End Hotel continue with lunch around 13.00hrs.. Afterwards, you will explore the city of Bengaluru. You will begin with a visit to Tipu’s Palace. The Palace of Tipu Sultan is a beautiful wooden palace with intricately sculpted arches. Though parts of the palace were destroyed in battle, a visit here explains why this was Tipu’s favored summer retreat.
Next you will visit the Kalakriti art Gallary, Bull Temple. The temple was constructed in the 16th century and dedicated to the sacred bull Nandi. The Bull Temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture.
Afterwards you will visit Lal Bagh, a famous botanical garden. Started as a royal private garden, Lal Bagh has a famous glass house that hosts the annual flower show. In between detail brief of Train Journey.

Transfer to Yeshwantpur Railway Station, where you will be welcomed in the traditional Indian style and escorted to your cabin on the Golden Chariot. You will have dinner and spend the night on board.

After breakfast, you will leave for Kabini. You will have lunch at the jungle lodge and then heat for a jungle/boat safari.
Kabini is a popular wildlife destination in the area and has a charming lake and lush green landscape. This is an ideal place to spot large herds of elephants and was once a popular hunting location for Indian Royalty and British Viceroys.
In the evening, you will have the chance to view an engrossing wildlife film. You will have dinner and spend the night in at JUNGLE LODGE.

After breakfast, you will leave for Mysore and have lunch on board the train. On arrival, you will visit the Mysore Palace. This spectacular building was commissioned in 1897 but was only complete in 1912. Every year it plays host to the annual Mysore Dusshera festival.
Next you will visit Srirangapatnam, a place of great religious and historical significance. In fact, it is the site of the infamous battle between Tipu Sultan and the British army. Tipu died in battle within the fort of Srirangaptnam and the place where he fell has been turned into a memorial.
In the evening, you will enjoy a cultural show at the Brindavan Gardens followed by dinner at Hotel KRS. Return to the Golden Chariot Night on Board.

After breakfast, you will leave for Hassan. You will visit Shravanabelagola. This historic town is a significant area for pilgrims of the Jain faith, with many ancient monuments and places of worship.
After lunch on board the Golden Chariot, you will visit Belur. This is temple town that is particularly renowned for the Hoysala temple complex.
Continue toward visit Halebid. This is another temple town famed for its Hoysala architecture. Most temples in both towns were made of steatite. The artistic accomplishments of the sculptors were so great that they actually left signatures on their work. The sculptors often left a small blank space on a pillar as a challenge to anyone who had the talent to fill them in. However, they remain blank even today.
You will then return to the Golden Chariot and have dinner onboard.

After breakfast, you will head to Hampi to do some sightseeing. Hampi was the medieval capital of India and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hampi is dotted with ancient monuments and ruins among them beautiful temples, royal pavilions and ancient market streets that attract pilgrims and tourists alike.

Start visit from the Virupaksha Temple. This sprawling temple complex began as humble shrines and is important for worshippers of Lord Shiva.
Visit the Queen’s bath, possibly a bathhouse for the king and his wives. The simple exterior hides an ornate interior that was once possible a large indoor aquatic complex.

Afterwards, visit the Elephant Stables. One of the best-preserved structures in Hampi, the Elephant Stables consists of 11 domed chambers used to house the ceremonial elephants of the royal household. You will then head to the local crafts bazaar and perhaps buy some local arts and crafts as souvenirs of your trip.

Return to the Golden Chariot for lunch. Next visit to the Royal Enclosure. The Royal Enclosure has numerous relics of the fallen empire including royal pavilions and audience halls. Continue visit to the Hazara Rama Temple. The temple probably got its name from the many sculptures on its walls that depict the Ramayana. The royal family possibly used it as a private temple.

Visit the illuminated Vittala temple. This architectural marvel defies description. Carved out of granite rock, the precision of the art, architecture and engineering required to create this structure points to the accomplishments of the architects and craftsmen of the 15th century.
Return to the Golden Chariot for dinner.

After breakfast on board the train, explore the Badami Caves. The Badami Cave Temples are brilliant example of Indian rock-cut architecture. Carved out of soft sandstone in the late 6th century, the caves represent different religious sects.
Visit the town of Pattadakal, famous for its monuments dating back to the 8th century. Built under the patronage of the Chalukyan Dynasty, the monuments display both the north Indian Nagara and southern Dravidian styles of architecture.
Return to the Golden Chariot and head toward to Goa. Have lunch, relax and enjoy the excellent facilities on board. These include a spa and gym.

After breakfast on board the train, opportunity to explore Goa. Goa’s colonial history has given it some of the most beautiful and renowned churches in India. Explore some of them.
This cultural heritage can also be seen in the architecture of the old Portuguese homes.
A visit to the emporium will give you the opportunity to pick up some of the local arts and crafts as souvenirs.
Lunch at Majorda Beach Resort.
Next comes an exciting visit to the local casino before returning to the Golden Chariot.
Return on Train dinner & Night on board the train.

Optional: One can end Journey at Goa to enjoy few days” beach stay. “Also tomMake extension for kerala or Tamilnadu trip.

You will have breakfast on board the Golden Chariot and return to the Yeshwantpur Railway Station after a memorable journey.

Many More Luxury Train Programmes on Request.