The allure of untold centuries unfolds for the those fortunate enough to experience the ancient Silk Road by rail. A year-round roster of special interest packages -- emphasizing history, culture, arts and nature -- lets passengers select the itinerary that suits them best. The sleek, air-conditioned train is newly constructed. Its clean and modern facilites are complemented by a range of services and amenities... from dry cleaning service to fine regional Chinese cuisines to satellite TV. Be sure to click on "Traveller Guide" for an impressive movie archive of tour highlights.

Featured in National Geographic Traveler and Outside Magazine, the "Palace on Wheels of Maharashtra" leads guests through timeless cultures of the kingdom of the Marathas. Itinerary includes the heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora, the handicraft village of Shilpa Gram, the Sula Winery at Nashik, the bustling cities of Mumbai and Pune, and more. Facilities include deluxe suites plus lounge/conference and restaurant/bar cars; electronic, IT and spa amenities. Train departs Mumbai every Wednesday from October to April.

The world's oldest (1855) working steam engine -- according to Guinness -- guides visitors on an exotic 2-day adventure. Itinerary highlights include palatial accomodations, native cultural program and cuisine, and an authentic tiger safari. Tours conducted between October and March but beware: posted schedule was two years out of date as of May 2002.

From India's mesmerizing "Pink City" of Jaipur, to the tigers at Sawai Madhopur, to Agra and the breathtaking Taj Mahal, the antique splendor of Rajasthan enchants those few fortunate enough to book passage aboard the opulent Palace on Wheels. Described as "One of the world's ten great rail journeys," the eight-day excursion complements first-class onboard amenities and hospitality with local touristic and culinary attractions.

Guests of the Royal Orient enjoy the "luxuries and amenities of a five-star hotel" as mystery and romance of Gujarat and Rajasthan unfolds. Eight-day itinerary includes the fortress at Chittaurgarh... Udaipur: Venice of the East... the temples at Modhera, Patan, Somnath and Palitana... Sasan Gir: the lions' last natural habitat outside Africa... the Samudra Beach Resort at Ahmedpur-Mandvi... the former Portuguese colony of Diu... and the rose-hued sandstone architecture of Jaipur, "India's pink city."

Departs Shibuya Station on Tokyo's Yamanote Ring Line for popular tourist destinations like Hakone and Enoshima, southeast of the city. Also: one- and two-day tours of Japan's 12th century capital of Kamakura or Hakone -- including Mt. Fuji. Site also in