Imagine the rhythmic sound of wheels rolling through the heart of Rajasthan, as you sit ensconced in regal comfort, surrounded by opulent décor that speaks of a bygone era. This is not just any train journey; this is the Palace on Wheels, a moving marvel that has long been a symbol of Indian luxury, and it’s now set to embark on an all-new chapter of magnificence. After 42 years of transporting guests through the cultural and architectural gems of Rajasthan, the Palace on Wheels has been rejuvenated.
With its latest transformation, the Palace on Wheels isn’t just a train; it’s a moving palace, a piece of living history where luxury and tradition meet. As you step aboard, you are not just traveling; you are experiencing Rajasthan’s regal past, with all the comforts of modern luxury.
The Royal history of renaissance of Luxury
Since its inception, the Palace on Wheels has epitomized the grandeur of India’s royal heritage. It was first launched in 1981, reviving the luxury travel once reserved for Maharajas and Nizams. For decades, the train took passengers through the captivating landscape of Rajasthan, evoking a sense of regality at every turn. However, this season’s journey promises a different kind of splendour – one that marries the nostalgia of the past with the conveniences and aesthetics of the present.
The renovation, which cost ₹2 crore, has breathed fresh life into the interiors of the train. The rich heritage of Rajasthan remains the central theme, but new features like intricate Mexican fabrics and Bombay Dyeing textiles now grace the coaches. With upgraded woodwork and soft quiet tones, the décor invites you into an oasis of calm as you traverse India’s desert heartland. The coaches redesigned with veneer woodwork feature elegance in the ambience and furnishings for a more comfortable experience, reminiscent of the opulent palaces of Rajasthan’s great cities like Jaipur and Udaipur.
The Sparkle of Golden Mirror Ceilings
As you step inside, the first thing that catches your eye is the glittering ceiling. Newly introduced golden mirror work reflects the soft glow of the lighting, giving the train a radiant atmosphere. Imagine the luxury of looking up and seeing hundreds of tiny mirrors shimmering like stars, as you travel through India’s royal heartland. Crafted by 35 skilled Rajasthani artisans, this intricate mirror detailing has transformed the train into a floating palace.
Saurabh Yadav, a prominent architect and interior designer based in Jaipur, led a team of 70 craftsmen who worked day and night at Dher Ke Balaji station to complete the renovation in time. Every inch of the ceiling and wall panelling has been rejuvenated, keeping alive the royal charm while adding a touch of modern elegance.
Dining Like Royalty: The Sheesh Mahal Experience
Dining aboard the Palace on Wheels has always been an extravagant affair. The dining cars — Maharaja and Maharani — have undergone a stunning transformation, inspired by the legendary Sheesh Mahal of Amer Fort. Picture yourself dining in a space where every inch of the ceiling is a reflection of opulence, adorned with golden mirror work, reminiscent of the royal courts. The same families who worked on the original Sheesh Mahal have lent their expertise to the renovation of the Palace on Wheels, ensuring that the grandeur of the past is retained in the present.
Adding to the splendour, the dining cars offer a new royal menu. The standout dish of this season is the Royal Lychee Vegetable, an exotic creation that adds a twist to traditional Indian flavours. Alongside it, passengers can enjoy a variety of sumptuous dishes such as Vegetable Chow Chow, Bread Surprise, and the rich, aromatic Mutton Korma. The dining experience aboard the Palace on Wheels is nothing short of a royal feast, and with the Sheesh Mahal-inspired décor, every meal feels like a banquet in a palace.
Craftsmanship in Every Detail
The journey on the Palace on Wheels is an experience of immersion in Rajasthani culture and art. The artisans responsible for the intricate detailing have their roots deeply embedded in Rajasthan’s royal heritage. From the hand-carved wooden panels to the luxurious Mexican fabrics that soften the atmosphere, every inch of the train speaks of skilled craftsmanship.
Even the functional areas, like the washrooms, have been upgraded to align with the train’s luxurious theme. Large mirrors, stylish carpets, and modern fixtures replace older materials, ensuring that passengers experience comfort and elegance in every corner of the train.
Behind the Scenes: Extensive Repairs at Ajmer Yard
Before the Palace on Wheels embarks on its renewed journey, it went through essential repair work at Ajmer Yard. The repairs, completed over three months, ensured that the train is not only beautiful but also in top functional condition. The transformation is subtle yet significant, as passengers are enveloped in a peaceful ambiance, journeying through Rajasthan’s desert heartland with all the opulence of a bygone era.
Immense Tourist Interest: 400 Bookings Confirmed
The allure of the Palace on Wheels has reignited interest among luxury travellers. Bhagat Singh of Lohagarh, overseeing operations of the train and well known for various Opulent Resorts, Fort Hotels and Wedding venues in Jaipur, confirmed the significant spike in demand. Already, 400 bookings have been secured ahead of the train’s September 25th departure. The train will leave Jaipur on September 23rd for Delhi, where it will pick up passengers for its first official journey of the season.
“The Palace on Wheels will embark on its journey from September 25th, and preparations are in full swing. This season, we are seeing great interest from tourists,” said Sushma Arora, Managing Director of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation.
The Legacy Continues
Since its inception in 1981-82, the Palace on Wheels has been the epitome of luxury travel, initially running on meter-gauge tracks. Converted later to a broad-gauge system, the train has grown to accommodate more modern demands while retaining its core essence — a reminder of the royal splendour of Rajasthan’s princely states. Inspired by the journeys once taken by the rulers of Rajputana, Gujarat, and Hyderabad, the Palace on Wheels continues to transport guests through a world of kings, queens, and palaces.
The Journey Begins Anew
As the Palace on Wheels prepares for its relaunch, it promises an unforgettable experience that blends royal luxury with modern comfort. From the golden mirror ceilings to the serene Mexican fabrics, every detail has been designed to offer passengers a glimpse into the world of royalty. Whether it’s the sumptuous new menu or the upgraded amenities, every moment aboard the Palace on Wheels is an invitation to immerse yourself in the grandeur of India’s past.
On September 25th, the train will embark on its new journey, offering travellers a chance to experience Rajasthan’s regal splendour in a way that only the Palace on Wheels can provide. With the combination of timeless heritage and modern luxury, this moving marvel promises to continue its legacy as India’s most luxurious train ride, inviting guests to savour the journey as much as the destination.
– Lavina Rodrigues | Mumbai
