The Golden Chariot is a luxury train that takes you on a royal ride through the majestic landscapes of South India. The destinations of The Golden Chariot are dotted to uphold the culture, history and architecture of the targeted regions. With its opulent cabins, gourmet dining, and world-class amenities, the train offers a truly unforgettable experience. Each cabin is designed with intricate details and equipped with modern facilities to ensure maximum comfort and convenience. The train takes you on a journey that covers some of the most iconic destinations in South India, including Bandipur National Park, Mysore, Hampi, and Goa. The experience of traveling on The Golden Chariot is like no other, and it's definitely a must-try for anyone looking to explore India in a royal style. The luxurious train is an outcome of an MOU signed by the Railway Ministry and the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation. The train flagged its first journey on 10th March 2008.
The unique location of the southern peninsula, bordered by the Arabian Sea in the West, the Indian Ocean in the South, and the Bay of Bengal in the East witnessed more than one dynasty involved in trade and political relations with both the East and the West. These dynasties with their patronage of the arts and crafts have left an indelible mark on the terrain through intricately carved temples and other structures that tell a tale of the glorious past of these lands.
1. Accommodation - The guest cabins of The Golden Chariot are entitled after the dynasties that have reigned in South India for centuries. The cabins are equipped with world-class amenities, private bathrooms and other accessories. One cabin is also available for specially-abled.
2. Restaurants - ‘Nalpaka’ and ‘Ruchi’ are the two multi-cuisine restaurants serving the best of Indian preparations. ‘Madira’, the bar caters to the guests the choices of beers, wines and spirits.
3. Others - The train also possesses a spa cum fitness centre, named ‘Arogya’. The centre provides both modern workout equipment as well as Ayurvedic Spa therapies.
1. Pride of Karnataka - Bengaluru → Nanjangud → Mysore → Halebidu → Chikamgaluru → Hospet → Goa → Bengaluru.
2. Jewels of South - Bengaluru → Mysore → Kanchipuram → Mahabalipuram → Thanjavur → Chettinad/Karaikudi → Cochin → Chertala/Maraikulam → Bengaluru.
3. Glimpses of Karnataka - Bengaluru → Nanjangud → Mysore → Hospet → Bengaluru.
The Golden Chariot plunges into the ‘Glimpses of Karnataka’ itinerary for 3 nights and 4 days. It starts and ends at Yesvantpur Junction, Bengaluru and commences the expedition on Saturday.
Saturday - Day 1. Bengaluru → Nanjangud
• Checking in formalities from 08:30 am. • Departure from Yesvantpur Junction at 9:45 a.m. • Lunch onboard. • Arrival at Nanjangud at 1:30 p.m. • Evening Tiger Safari in Bandipur from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. • Dinner onboard. • Arrival at Mysore and overnight stay on the train.
Sunday - Day 2. Mysore
• Breakfast onboard. • A visit to Mysore Palace. • Lunch onboard • Optional visit to Srirangapatnam. • Dinner on board • Arrival at Hospet at 8:00 p.m.
Monday - Day 3. Hospet
• Breakfast onboard. • A visit to the Hampi ruins • Lunch onboard. • Evening leisure • Dinner onboard.
Tuesday - Day 4. Bengaluru
• Breakfast onboard. • Disembark at Bengaluru