Away from the beaches and snow clad mountains, if you want to explore the desert land of the nation make way for Jodhpur. Forts and palaces screaming of bloodshed victory and pride of the rulers from the bygone era seem to be detailed out in every remnants. Situated amidst the golden sand of Thar desert, Jodhpur was found in 1459 AD by Jodhaji Rao. It was also well connected via the silk route. The fascinating land of Jodhpur comprises of several monuments, forts, temples and Havelis. The city is surrounded by a 10 km wall and has 8 entrance gates. The city is popular in its own traditional charm and grandeur coupled with the amazing yet simple lifestyle of the region.

Once you have already decided your next destination at Jodhpur, let me suggest you something to make your travel an exciting one! It will be a package deal to be treated like a royal prince while travelling to the princely state of the bygone era. The Palace on Wheels is India’s best luxury train which takes you to exotic locations across the sands of Thar.

Journey at Palace on Wheels

The Palace on Wheels train comprises of 39 Deluxe Cabins and 2 super deluxe cabins with a total capacity of 82 passengers on board and is fully air conditioned. The facilities include the spa, gym, two resto bar lounges offering a huge collection of wines and spirits. Free wifi, TV and DVD players are there to accompany you while you travel.

Your comfort is of utter importance and hence big, soft and comfy beds for a solid sleep at night along with arm chairs in each cabin is provided. You also have a writing desk, cupboards, well equipped bathrooms with hot and cold running water and most importantly you have a personal assistant to serve you through out the 8 day long travel.

The interior decor and the attire of the staff and personal attendants would remind you of the Rajasthani culture as they depict the culture and traditions of the desert land beautifully.

Route

The journey on the Palace on wheels commences from Safdarjung Railway Station at New Delhi. The first stop is at Jaipur followed by wildlife jungle safari at RANTHAMBHORE. Next you head towards the Hill Fort of Chittorgarh. Udaipur, the land of lakes is the next destination followed by Jaisalmer in the next morning.

Finally you are at Jodhpur on Day 6 of the trip on the royal wheels. The BHARATPUR bird sanctuary and the Taj Mahal are the last two destinations on the Palace on Wheels.

Prices begin from INR 2,72,000 and 4,20,000 for single and double occupancy at low seasons while INR 3,63,000 and INR 5,46,000 for single and double occupancy in deluxe and INR 7,56,000 in super deluxe cabins.

Here we are covering the exotic Jodhpur, the Heart of Marwar.

Tourist Hotspots in Jodhpur

Starting with a refreshing tea and breakfast, the sightseeing commences with Mehrangarh Fort on top of a 125 metres high rock hill. The architectural intelligence of the 16th century is marvellous as depicted by the angle of the gateways which were placed such that the enemies could not attack the main fort. Once you have crossed the detailed out gateways you enter the Mahals and then move towards the Royal Museum which still houses the weapons and dresses of the significant rulers. The next stop at Jodhpur is that of the JaswantThada – an amazing creation of the 19th century in while marble in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. At this fort are also present some of the age old rare paintings which depict the artistic skills of the Jodhpur artists! Also do not miss the famous UmaidBhawan.

It was one of those palaces constructed in the 20th century for the famine relief programme. Did you know this exquisite sandstone monument, now converted to a luxurious hotel took 16 years to complete? The Mahamandir Temple, situated at a close proximity is another site to delight! The amazingly defined and seamless architecture of the 17th century, spread across 84 pillars is sure to take your breath away.

The Luni Fort and Nagaur Fort depicting the Rajput culture through the craftwork of Badal Mahal, Hadi Rani Mahal and Sheesh Mahal are absolutely stunning.

It is time to go through the snaps and recollect the Jodhpur memories while you sip in the refreshing tea or get some wine and embark to the next destination on the Palace in Wheels.

Know more about the Palace on Wheels train schedule and make your trip more luxurious.