The most enamoring club of royal journeys in India is said to be incomplete without the most enchanting caravan of Palace on Wheels. The convoy was the first luxury train in India and was acclaimed as the Queen of royal trains in India. This marked the beginning of imperial excursions in India. The convoy of royalty is associated with a glorious past of timeless grace and rewinds the era of the majestic aura.
The history of this ostentatious motorcade is a significant mega event that gave a new direction to Indian tourism. This journey was ones the pleasure tour of the rulers of Rajputana, Nizams and colonial Viceroy but after Indian independence these coaches were stationed for many decades till 1981 – 82. The year 1981 saw a spark to prove the world that a third world country like India can successfully operate lavish journeys. This lead to the introduction of Palace on Wheels train in the year 1982 which was a joint initiative of Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and Indian Railways. This painstaking effort to promote Rajasthan tour along with Taj Mahal in Agra was widely criticized by the western world.
The critics were left to chew their words in the year 1987 when this majestic caravan won the PATA gold award for beyond imagination travel experiences. The royal excursion of Palace on Wheels tour was later acclaimed as one of the top ten train journeys of the world. The royal procession was highly appreciated by the world media including BBC, National Geographic, and MDR of Germany amongst many others.
The regal cavalcade which made sparkling history was designed with 14 air conditioned coaches, two ethnic restaurants, well stocked bars, lounge, mail box, medical aid, shopping arcade, ATM and satellite phone. The tariff for the year 2011 was US$ 500 per person per night and the price was charged half of the total cost for the children between 5 to 12 years.
This lavish journey of seven nights and eight days starts every Wednesday from Delhi Safdarjung Railway station. This winter enjoy an expedition of fun, frolic, and mirth amidst Palace on Wheels journey.
Nov 20, 2011
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