Culturally Potent Destinations Covered by Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

India is a dream destination for art and culture lovers. Right from religious shrines to architectural wonders, the country is home to all. But how would it be if cultural excursion in India gets a touch of royalty. Operated by Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Train offers such experience to the travelers. Its journey spanning over 8 days and 7 nights encompasses two culturally potent destinations in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh- Khajuraho and Varanasi respectively. In this blog post, I will highlight the cultural significance of these two destinations that attract travelers from all around the world.

                                                                          Varanasi

Ganga Aarti, Varanasi. Ganga Aarti Ceremony, Varanasi.

Fondly known as the ‘spiritual capital of India’, Varanasi is largely visited for its bathing Ghats flanked by river Ganges and number of Hindu temples which include Tulsi Manas, Sankat Mochan, Bharat Mata and Kashi Vishwanath temple-  famous as jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The sacred Ghats such as Manikarnika, Dasashwamedh and Panch-Ganga are believed to have the divine power of providing salvation.  Being a spectator to evening Ganga aarti will give a perfect closure to your cultural tour in Varanasi.

                                                           Khajuraho

World Map India Madhya Pradesh Khajuraho

“A sensuous poetry in stones,” this is probably the best explanation for Khajuraho Group of Monuments, recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Built by Chandela dynasty between 950 A.D. and 1050 A.D., these temples are dedicated to lord Shiva, Vishnu and Jain Tirthnkras. These temples are outstanding examples of Indo-Aryan architecture and depict images of Hindu deities, mythological characters & animals and erotic figures exhibiting Kamasutra positions. An evening son-et-lumiere in the compounds of western temple complex will mark the crescendo of the day

All Aboard Royal Rajasthan on Wheels - New Season all Set to Begin

This luxury Indian train will embark on its new season’s move on 7th October, 2012. Along with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels tariff and departure schedules, the train authorities have also announced the train itinerary which will cover destinations in Rajasthan along with halts in Varanasi, Khajuraho and Agra before concluding the tour itinerary in Delhi.

Emerald Suite Aboard Royal Rajasthan On Wheels

To offer a complete journey experience to the world voyagers, the destinations are precisely chosen from the vast terrain of the country. From the historical monuments to sacred temples, and from thrilling wild lands to the sempiternal world of sand dunes, every shade of India is well presented by this refurbished Royal Rajasthan on Wheels itinerary.

In its 7 nights and 8 days of royal train ride, RROW will cover diverse destinations like Delhi, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Jaipur, Khajuraho, Varanasi and Agra. Presenting all the hues of India into the royal platter, this luxury Indian rail makes the guests relish every aspect of their tour to the fullest extent.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels price will start from USD 590 for a single person per night. Unlocking the casket of surprises and mysteries, this royal Indian train is ready to take the guests to a cultural venture crisscrossing the bewitching terrain of India.For more information on journeys, scheduled departures, tariff plan and booking visit the page of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Train.

Travel aboard Royal Rajasthan on Wheels for Spiritual Enlightenment

The art of elegant train travelling in India that began with the introduction of Palace on Wheels train in 1982 has been carried forward by various luxury trains one after the other. The resounding success of Palace on Wheels train caused advanced booking for this luxury tourist train .
To meet the rising demands of luxury rail tour in Rajasthan, Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) decided to launch Royal Rajasthan on Wheels in 2009. This blog post talks about the 6th day tour on board this Indian luxury train.

Royal Rajasthan On Wheels Restro Lounge

Your Varanasi tour aboard Royal Rajasthan on Wheels begins with a cruise boat ride on the banks of river Ganges following which you will taken to Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha first delivered his first sermons and laid the foundation stone of Buddhism.The city is famous for its Buddhist stupas and iconic Ashoka Pillar, which is also the national emblem of India.

Royal Rajasthan On Wheels Bar Sheesh Mahal

Be a spectator of the evening Ganga aarti and get mesmerized with the magical sight. The sight conjures up the images of blistering camphor lamps filling the water expanse and sadhus in saffron robes offering prayers to river goddess.

In the wee hours of morning, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Train enters the holy city of Varanasi. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of India, Varanasi is often called the spiritual nerve centre of Hinduism. More than 3,000 year old, the sacred city is famous for the beeline of devotees, bathing Ghats, Banarasi silk and scores of Hindu temples.

After spending an entire day in Varanasi, you will return back on board to continue your journey towards Agra. The 6th day our will acquaint you with the religious fervor that is prevalent in India since ancient times.

Bravura Suite or Extraordinary Suite: Take Your Pick for Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Tour

The resounding success of Palace on wheels paved the way for many state tourism boards to come up with luxury tourist trains in their respective region. One of them is Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, a joint initiative of Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways. Co-incidentally RTDC are the makers of Palace on Wheels and the unprecedented popularity of this Indian luxury train among lucrative foreign tourist segment led to the introduction of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels to promote tourism in Rajasthan. Although this luxury tourist train was designed to traverse erstwhile princely states of Rajputana but it went on to include Khajuraho and Varanasi as part of cultural and spiritual excursion.

 Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Train Tour

The super deluxe saloon or Bravura Suite has been named after Taj Mahal. Guest cabins in deluxe coaches have been designed with the tint of three exquisite jewels- Ruby, Pearl and Sapphire and come befitted with elegant silk furnishings, comforter and upholstery to create an aesthetic appeal. All 13 Extraordinary Suites can accommodate guests up to 6.

On the other hand, there is Bravura Suite is more spacious than the former one and can accommodate 8 people. The 4 twin-bedded chambers in this suite have been designed in traditional Rajasthani décor. While beds are draped in silk and velvet comforters, the finely carved wooden furniture has been designed in pure Ottoman style.

Royal Rajasthan On Wheels Train Journey

These suites draw their name from two striking stones-diamond and emerald. Complementing the traditional Rajasthani décor are the state of the art amenities such as individual temperature control, electronic safe, channel music, Wi-Fi internet and 110/120 V socket compatibility. Each saloon is appointed with a personal attendant to cater to your needs and requirements.

Apart from accommodation, no other facility on board Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Tour can be differentiated in terms of refinement, facilities and space. The accommodation alternative chosen will determine your superiority as a traveler while most other facilities are just bells and whistles.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Facilities : A Galore of World Class Luxuries

A journey on board Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is a travelling bonanza for tourists who wish to discover the myriad colors of Rajasthan in sheer opulence. Beginning from Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi, the luxury train covers Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Jaipur, Khajuraho, Varanasi and Agra before heading back to Delhi. The luxury tourist train was launched by Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) following the unprecedented success of Palace on Wheels, the queen of Indian luxury trains. Given below is the brief description of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels facilities that offer modern comforts and cosmopolitan refinement.

Super Deluxe Saloon

• The train has two restro bars- Sheesh Mahal and Swarn Mahal- serving lip-smacking Rajasthani, Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisines. The two onsite bars serve premium brands of whiskey, scotch, malt, rum, vodka, wines and Champanage among others.

• A fully equipped spa offering fine assortment of Ayurvedic therapies and massages from different cultures to revitalize your mind, body and soul. .All cabins come equipped with state of the art amenities such as room safe, channel music, Wi-Fi internet and central air conditioning.

Bar & Lounge

• Taking cue from the architectural aesthetics of erstwhile palaces of Rajasthan, the 13 deluxe saloons and 1 super deluxe saloon represents a seamless blend of traditional and modernity apparent in its ethnic décor and state of the art facilities. While Extraordinary Suites (Deluxe Saloons) are designed in themes of three exquisite jewels- Ruby, Sapphire and Pearl, Bravura Suite (Super Deluxe Saloon are themed around two precious stones- emerald and diamond.

Dining & Cuisines

• A souvenir coach set with cruet sets, embossed leather jewelry box and beer mugs among others. Adding to the aforementioned facilities of this Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is the personalized services offered by the courteous staff, which is another USP of this train.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Tariff: Totally Worth It

The advent of Palace on Wheels in 1982 has looked upon with great enthusiasm. The phenomenal success of this luxury tourist train encouraged different state tourism boards to introduce luxury rail journeys in their respective regions. The unprecedented popularity of Palace on Wheels train has led to the introduction of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels in 2009 to meet the growing demand of luxury train tours in Rajasthan.

Shish Mahal Restaurant of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

If there is one single world that could describe the opulence of this train is ‘Royal’ which is itself is added in its name. Beginning from an introductory price of USD 590 per person per night, the weeklong journey on board this train is a medley of royal, cultural and spiritual facet of India. Listed below is the  chart of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels train tariff and the reasons why the journey price is worth the luxury on offer.  

Occupancy Type Price in US$ Description Super Deluxe Saloon (Suite) US$ 1600 Per Suite per night Deluxe Saloon (Twin Sharing) US$ 590 Per person per night Deluxe Saloon (Single Occupancy) US$ 825 Per person per night

Offering Ultra-Luxe Facilities to the Guests

The 13 deluxe cabins draw their name from an erstwhile famous palace of Rajasthan such as Hawa Mahal, Surya Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Sukh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Kumbha Palace, Jogi Mahal, Umaid Palace, Padmini Mahal, Kishori Mahal and Lalgarh Palace. The Super Deluxe Coach is rightly named after Taj Mahal.

The tastefully decorated interiors, sylvan furnishings, silk and velvet comforters, individual temperature control & separate electronic safe for each cabin add to the overall regal experience.

A personal attendant aka Khidmatgar appointed for each cabin goes extra miles to serve your needs and requirements.

 The foreign exchange need of the guests has been countered by setting up counters at all partner hotels. A/c buses are provided for all sightseeing excursions.

The two restro-bars housed within Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, Swarn Mahal and Sheesh Mahal serves a wide range of Indian, Mughlai and Continental cuisines along with traditional Rajasthani fare. The in-house bar serves choicest brands of Indian and foreign liquor brands.

Deluxe Saloon

The Royal spa offers host of Ayurvedic and wellness therapies along with personal care products to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

Guests can shop for souvenir items such as Beer Mug, Cruet Set, Leather Photo Frame and Jewelry Box.

Adding to the aforementioned listed facilities is the impeccable hospitality of the train staff, which is another USP of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. Without a doubt, the price of Royal Rajasthan on Wheels train journey is truly the luxury on offer.

Cultural Tours to India onboard Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

Though people from all around the world visit India for a number of reasons, but one of the most prominent among them is the diverse culture of the country. A cultural tour to India can be enjoyed in a number of ways; but one of the most exclusive among them is to opt for Luxury train tours in India. The Indian luxury train Royal Rajasthan on Wheels mounts the top in this regard. The diverse destinations covered by this royal train journey and the off-train excursions make the global travelers witness the best of Indian culture in an extensive weeklong journey to Rajasthan.

Cultural Programs -Chari Dance on Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Indian luxury trains

A society’s culture, to a great extent, is molded by its past experience. All the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels destinations presents before the guests the glorious history of India along with making them taste a slice from the modern lifestyle of the country. The journey starts from the country capital Delhi, which is all hued by diverse cultures as almost all the language speaking people in India can be found in this city.

Moving from Delhi, the train reaches the colorful terrain of Rajasthan with first visiting the blue city Jodhpur. The city was the capital of Mewar and thus reflects the various facets of Mewar rule in the country by means of its palaces and forts. After taking a stroll in this majestic city, the train moves towards the city of romance, Udaipur. Surrounded by the Aravali hill range, Udaipur is best known among the love birds for its romantic allure. The floating royal palaces on lakes add on charm and gaiety to the city while bearing witness to a culture which never misses to spell bound the visitors.

Lake Pichola in Udaipur -Rajasthan off Train excursion

While a halt at Jaipur and Chittorgarh in Rajasthan gives the travelers a chance to walk on the royal path of the erstwhile Maharajas and know their glorious history, the jungle safari to the Ranthambore National Park is certainly thrilling and exciting for the travelers. Watching the valorous wild cats (Bengal tigers) in their natural habitat is no doubt one of the lifetime experiences that the guests onboard this Indian luxury train enjoy.

Chittorgarh Fort

The cultural tour to India onboard Royal Rajasthan on Wheels gets an interesting turn when the train reaches Khajuraho which is well acknowledged all around the world for its temple fleet. The Khajuraho temples are distinct from others for these have sculpted idols of gods, goddesses and mythological characters in erotic postures on its walls and pillars. A retreat for all the art lovers, these temples have a century old history which is well preserved till today.

Khajuraho Kamsutra Temple

On the 6^th day of the journey, the train reaches the city of Varanasi, a dwelling of the most ancient civilizations on earth. The chants coming out of the temples and the mild breeze of the river Ganges create a celestial charm which made a tour to Varanasi a soul purifying journey. Moving from Varanasi, the train reaches Agra, the city of the icon of immortal love, Taj Mahal. Though Taj is always associated with love and romance, it also mirrors the era of Mughal rule in India. The red citadel of Agra Fort is another marvelous witness of Mughal and Rajputana era.

Ganga Aarti, Varanasi Holy city of india

Bringing the old, medieval and new into one, the cultural tour to India onboard Royal Rajasthan on Wheels probably has no other comparison to beat its exclusiveness. To spend a week amid sheer sophistication and to view the diverse shades of India onboard this Indian luxury train has a charm that cannot be described in mere words only.