 It stands on its tracks; a gleaming sealed carriage, every bit as royal as the original, and perhaps more. The air-conditioning works silently, creating a space where only the excitement of the history of the Rajput kingdoms permeates through, clearly captured in a contemporary mode. In all, there are fourteen saloons, each equipped with two twin-bedded and two double-bedded chambers, with attached baths that have running hot and cold water and showers. The modern conveniences have been thoughtfully provided, sofas to sink into, strategically placed lights to read by, wonderfully appointed beds with comfortable furnishings, inbuilt wardrobes for the storage of one's clothes and bags, and huge plate glass windows to watch the countryside roll past.
The name "Palace-on-Wheels" (POW) was derived from its royal back-ground of the coaches. A new meter gauge air conditioned Palace-on-Wheels was introduced in 1984 & had 13 Saloons, 2 Restaurant cum Kitchen car, one Bar cum Lounge and 4 Service Cars. In order to further increase the amenities on the train and due to over all gauge conversion in the state, a new broad gauge Palace-on-Wheels has been constructed & has been running since 1996. It's 14 Saloons are inter-connected, the interiors of the saloons reflect the aesthetics of the former Royal states of Rajasthan. The exquisite and exclusive Palace on Wheels has luxurious Cabins, wall to wall carpeting, a well stocked bar, two dining cars (The Maharaja and Maharani) and a very personalized service... in fact, almost everything that could comprise of heaven on earth for seven days !
In the past 20 years of operations, the Palace-on-Wheels has been rated as one of the best ten luxurious rail journeys in the world.
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