Luxury train enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that the renowned Palace on Wheels is set to embark on a new journey after 42 years of its traditional route. According to reports from the Times of India, the Palace on Wheels, known for its opulence and royal charm, will now traverse the sacred Indian cities of Ayodhya, Kashi, and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. This departure from its traditional itinerary marks a significant milestone for the iconic train, which has been a symbol of luxury travel since its inception in 1982 in collaboration with the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC).
The Palace on Wheels has long been celebrated for its lavish amenities, including an Ayurvedic spa, personal butlers, grand welcome ceremonies, and sumptuous royal dining experiences. However, in May of this year, it will introduce religious tours, offering passengers a six-day spiritual odyssey from Delhi to Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Mathura, and Vrindavan. This transformation in route underscores the train’s commitment to providing diverse and enriching experiences to its discerning travelers.
While Mint has not independently verified this development, reports suggest that the RTDC has entrusted the management of the Palace of Wheels to Cube Construction Company Pvt Ltd, based in Gujarat, for a period of seven years. The private operator is poised to launch the religious service in May, with plans to contribute ₹5 crore annually to the RTDC, along with an 18% share of the total turnover.
In preparation for the religious tour, the Palace of Wheels will make adjustments to its culinary offerings, foregoing non-vegetarian cuisine and omitting onion and garlic from vegetarian meals. Additionally, passengers will be serenaded with devotional melodies of Ram and Krishna during the journey, enhancing the spiritual ambiance on board.
To accommodate the preferences of local tourists, the Palace of Wheels will operate on the tracks twice a month, offering flexibility for those interested in visiting specific destinations like Ayodhya or Prayagraj. Moreover, the train officials have indicated that discounts will be available for customized trips, ensuring accessibility and affordability for all travelers seeking a transcendent experience aboard the Palace on Wheels.
Overall, the forthcoming religious tours represent a bold and exciting new chapter for the Palace on Wheels, inviting travelers to embark on a journey of faith, culture, and spiritual enlightenment unlike any other.