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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.
Outside the bedrooms, each coach also has a seating lounge where
passengers can get together, just sit watch the cities as they
glide past outside the windows, or enjoy a quiet cup of tea. An
attached pantry with each saloon helps provide beverages and refreshments
to the accompaniment of soothing piped music.
The train chugs out of Delhi cantonment on a week-long run through
Rajasthan every Wednesday night, with a trip also inbuilt to Agra
and the Taj Mahal. Turban-wearing attendants take over form the
moment you arrive at the platform, assigning you your coupes and
detailing all the facilities that are on board. The train moves
by night and arrives each morning at a new destination where new
experiences await you.
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