The Golden Chariot train is a luxury train in India that provides a unique way to explore the rich heritage and culture of South India. The train is named after the famous stone chariot in the ancient Hampi temple complex in Karnataka and offers a royal experience to its passengers. In this blog, we will take a closer look at this magnificent train and the experiences it offers.
The Golden Chariot train was launched in 2008 and is operated by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC). The train is designed to resemble the grandeur of the erstwhile kingdoms of South India. It has 19 coaches, including 11 guest cabins, 2 restaurants, a lounge bar, a conference car, a spa, and a gym. The train can accommodate up to 88 passengers at a time.
The Golden Chariot train operates two routes - Pride of Karnataka and Jewels of South. The Pride of Karnataka route covers some of the most famous tourist destinations in Karnataka, such as Hampi, Badami, and Mysore. The Jewels of South route covers destinations in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, such as Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, and Hampi.
The cabins on the Golden Chariot train are designed to provide the ultimate luxury experience. The train has 44 cabins, including 26 twin bed cabins, 17 double bed cabins, and one cabin for differently-abled passengers. Each cabin is equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, LCD TV, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower cubicle and a toilet. The cabins are decorated with traditional South Indian motifs and offer a comfortable and relaxing environment.
The train has two restaurants - Nala and Ruchi - that serve a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Continental, and Chinese. The chefs on the train use locally sourced ingredients to prepare the dishes and offer a unique culinary experience to the passengers. The train also has a lounge bar called Madira, where passengers can relax and enjoy a drink or two.
The Golden Chariot train also offers a range of experiences and activities for its passengers. The train has a spa and a gym, where passengers can unwind and rejuvenate themselves. The train also has a conference car that can accommodate up to 25 people and is equipped with modern audio-visual equipment. The train also offers guided tours of the destinations covered by the train, where passengers can explore the rich heritage and culture of South India.
The Golden Chariot train is a unique way to explore the heritage and culture of South India. The train offers a luxurious and comfortable experience and provides an opportunity to explore some of the most famous tourist destinations in the region. The train is a perfect choice for those who want to travel in style and experience the grandeur of the erstwhile kingdoms of South India.
The cost of traveling on the Golden Chariot train can vary depending on several factors such as the route chosen, the season, and the type of cabin chosen. Generally, the cost of a journey on the Golden Chariot train ranges from USD 3,500 to USD 12,000 per person.
The Pride of Karnataka route, which covers destinations in Karnataka, is generally less expensive than the Jewels of South route, which covers destinations in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The cost of traveling on the Golden Chariot train is also higher during peak season, which is typically from October to March.
The train offers three types of cabins - Deluxe Cabin, Twin Bed Cabin, and Suite. The Deluxe Cabin is the most basic and affordable option, while the Suite is the most luxurious and expensive option. The cost of a Deluxe Cabin for a journey on the Golden Chariot train can range from USD 3,500 to USD 5,000 per person, while the cost of a Suite can range from USD 8,000 to USD 12,000 per person.
It is important to note that the cost of traveling on the Golden Chariot train is all-inclusive, which means that it includes accommodation, meals, sightseeing, and guided tours. The train also offers various facilities such as a spa, gym, conference car, and lounge bar, which are all included in the cost of the journey.
The cost of traveling on the Golden Chariot train can vary depending on several factors, but generally ranges from USD 3,500 to USD 12,000 per person. The train offers a luxurious and all-inclusive experience, which makes it a perfect choice for those who want to explore the rich heritage and culture of South India in style.
The Jewels of South route is one of the two routes covered by the Golden Chariot train and covers destinations in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The route is designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of South India. Some of the popular destinations covered by the Jewels of South route are:
Chennai - The capital city of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food. Some popular attractions in Chennai include the Marina Beach, Fort St. George, and Kapaleeswarar Temple.
Mahabalipuram - Located near Chennai, Mahabalipuram is known for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shore Temple is a must-visit attraction in Mahabalipuram.
Pondicherry - A former French colony, Pondicherry is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and spiritual centers. Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram are popular attractions in Pondicherry.
Thanjavur - Known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur is famous for its exquisite temples, art, and music. The Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit attraction in Thanjavur.
Madurai - Known as the Athens of the East, Madurai is one of the oldest cities in South India. The Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture, is a popular attraction in Madurai.
Mysore - Known as the City of Palaces, Mysore is famous for its beautiful palaces, gardens, and silk sarees. The Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, and Chamundi Hill are popular attractions in Mysore.
Hampi - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is known for its ancient temples, ruins, and monuments. The Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Lotus Mahal are must-visit attractions in Hampi.
The other route covered by the Golden Chariot train is called the "Pride of Karnataka". This route covers some of the most popular tourist destinations in the state of Karnataka, located in South India. The Pride of Karnataka route is designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Karnataka. Some of the popular destinations covered by the Pride of Karnataka route are:
Bengaluru - The capital city of Karnataka, Bengaluru is known for its beautiful parks, gardens, and IT industry. Some popular attractions in Bengaluru include Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, and Bangalore Palace.
Bandipur National Park - One of the most popular national parks in South India, Bandipur National Park is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
Mysore - As mentioned earlier, Mysore is known as the City of Palaces and is famous for its beautiful palaces, gardens, and silk sarees. The Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens, and Chamundi Hill are popular attractions in Mysore.
Hampi - Another destination covered by the Pride of Karnataka route, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient temples, ruins, and monuments. The Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Lotus Mahal are must-visit attractions in Hampi.
Badami - Known for its rock-cut cave temples and sandstone temples, Badami is a popular tourist destination in Karnataka. The Badami Cave Temples, Bhutanatha Temple, and Badami Fort are popular attractions in Badami.
Hassan - Located in the heart of the Malnad region, Hassan is known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples. The Hoysaleswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit attraction in Hassan.
The Pride of Karnataka route covered by the Golden Chariot train covers some of the most popular destinations in the state of Karnataka, each with its own unique cultural and natural attractions. A journey on the Golden Chariot train is a perfect way to explore these destinations in style and comfort.
The duration of the Pride of Karnataka route covered by the Golden Chariot train is 7 nights and 8 days. The train covers a distance of approximately 720 kilometers during this journey and stops at 7 destinations in Karnataka. The journey starts and ends in Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka.
During the journey on the Pride of Karnataka route, passengers get to explore some of the most popular tourist destinations in Karnataka, including Mysore, Hampi, and Badami. The train also stops at Bandipur National Park, where passengers can enjoy a wildlife safari and spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.
The journey on the Pride of Karnataka route is designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and wildlife of Karnataka. The train offers a luxurious and comfortable experience, with modern amenities and facilities such as air-conditioned cabins, Wi-Fi, spa, gym, and restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
Passengers on the Pride of Karnataka route also get to experience local culture and traditions through various activities and experiences, such as a traditional dance performance in Mysore, a visit to a silk factory in Srirangapatna, and a heritage walk in Hampi.
The Pride of Karnataka route covered by the Golden Chariot train offers a week-long journey through some of the most popular tourist destinations in Karnataka. The journey provides an opportunity to explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and wildlife of Karnataka in style and comfort.
A journey on the Golden Chariot train is a unique way to explore the rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty of South India. The train offers a luxurious and comfortable experience, with modern amenities and facilities that provide a royal touch to the journey. The two routes covered by the Golden Chariot train - Pride of Karnataka and Jewels of South - cover some of the most popular tourist destinations in the region and offer a range of experiences and activities for passengers. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to travel in style, a journey on the Golden Chariot train is an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of South India.
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