Named after the famous Stone Chariot in Hampi, the Golden Chariot is a moving palace on wheels that traverse through the timeless historical heritage sites, golden beaches and resplendent forts of South India. Embellished with opulent interior, pampering hospitality, state of the art amenities and delicious cuisine, the luxury train is an absolute feast to the eyes of its elite guests. Karnataka state tourism department along with Indian railways came out with the idea of a luxurious moving carriage to meet the demand of Western travelers who want to explore the splendors of South India in an opulent manner. And today a trip with Golden Chariot is one of the best ways to unearth the treasures and natural splendors of South India.
The itineraries are specially crafted and aesthetically finalized to ensure that guests travel to the best of the Indian heritage sites and enjoy utmost royalty left behind by the Maharajas of the south. The two intricately carved itineraries- Pride of the South and Southern Splendor draw an exquisite picture of South India that leaves every traveler spellbound.
With the Pride of the South itinerary, travelers journey through the mythology, heritage, wildlife, adventure, beaches and worship. Covering places like Bangalore, Mysore, Kabini, Hassan, Hospet, Badami and Goa, each day Pride of the South lets travelers discover a complete new facet of India creating more excitement and surprise as they move ahead. Spanning 7 nights and 8 days, the train crosses the techie city of Bangalore to reach the verdant forest of Nagarhole National Park at Kabini on the second day. A delicious lunch in the jungle lodge followed by an adventurous jeep safari dense into the forest and overnight stay in the jungle resort leave travelers completely spellbound. On the third day, the train rolls its royal wheels for Mysore- the erstwhile realm of Tipu Sultan. The beauty of Mysore lays in its gorgeous gardens, resplendent palaces, startling temples and traditional local markets. Lalitha Mahal Palace, Srirangapatna and Brindavan Gardens are major sightseeing destinations covered by Golden Chariot. Cultural program and sumptuous dinner are arranged to let the day end on a fine note. As the train starts its golden journey again, it reaches Hassan on the fourth day. Excursion to Shravanbelagola, Halebid and Belur provide a deeper insight into the architectural marvels of the holy South India.
In the evening the train again whistles for its onboard journey which ends at Hospet in the morning. Sightseeing at Hospet is more about enriching the religious instinct. The Virupaksha Temple is a bright example of religious edifices built during the medieval age. The remaining hours of the day can be spent at Hampi- A World Heritage Site. Visit to Hazara Rama Temple and Vittala Temple form an important part of sightseeing. On the sixth day morning the train halts at Badami. The popularity of Badami Caves and Pattadakal has attained international standards. A historic walk through the caves draws an exquisite picture of ancient India that is difficult to eliminate or forget. The last day with Golden Chariot is at Goa- the most sought after destination by westerners. Excursion starts with visit to Goa churches and an Old Portuguese House, Sola Souto Maior. Tea, cookies and sumptuous Goan lunch replenishes the taste buds. Excursion to Goan beaches brings with it the ultimate relaxation and completion to the most luxurious trip to India. As the train rolls back to Bangalore, the rich Dravidian heritage along with the natural splendor of nature let travelers explore the myriad world of Bangalore.
