Another luxury train product hits the tracks in December when the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels chugs out from New Delhi’s Safdarjung Railway Station and make its way to Rajasthan.
The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways, which also created the successful Palace on Wheels (fully booked until 2010), are behind the new experience.
To get the most out of the trip, travellers are advised to set aside seven days, which covers destinations such as Jaipur, the fabled Rajasthani capital; Bikaner, known for its camel fairs; Jaisalmer, the 12th century city of dunes; Jodhpur of the Umaid Bhawan Palace and now one of India’s best palace-hotels, Udaipur of the lakes; Chittaugarh with its magnificent fort; Bharatpur, site of the Keoladeo Ghana National Park; and finally, Agra with its immortal Taj Mahal.
The train returns to New Delhi on the eighth day.
Onboard amenities include internet access, both wired and Wi-Fi, two lounges, international-level spa, dining car and one Superdeluxe and 13 Deluxe Saloons.
Rates start from US$1,200 nightly per person on a single supplement basis.
For more details, go to www.rajathantourism.gov.in
Margie T Logarta