In their bid to further promote luxury train travel in India, The Indian Railways and Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) have announced their plans for a major revamp for two popular Indian luxury trains – the Palace on Wheels and the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. The refurbishing plans are different for each train and will be implemented by the time the trains begin their season in October.

“Over the years we have been very sensitive to the guests’ expectations. We have compiled feedback and are now acting on it to renovate the trains to enhance the magic of splendid journeys. We have extensively researched princely lifestyles and the trains will sport a new heritage look with the finest trappings you’d expect from a luxe train,” said Vinod Ajmera, managing director, of RTDC.

It has been reported the Palace on Wheels will receive major upgrades in its facilities, some of which include water purifiers in washrooms and state-of-the-art entertainment and communication devices. The train’s dining car, the lounge, and the bar are also listed for renovation.

The spa and health club on board the train will also get new machinery. The Palace on Wheels offers a 7-night, 8-day journey visiting Delhi, Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, and Agra.

The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels will now have wooden floors, layered by fine carpets to minimize noise. Old doors will give way to new doors and the average speed of the train will be increased to let the trains’ guests spend more time enjoying the destinations and less on traveling.

Appreciably, the tariffs for both trains are the same for the upcoming 2013-14 season and will only be subject to change in the 2014-15 season.