Golden Chariot Train-Southern Splendour Journey

About Golden Chariot Train

Experience the charm of South India in royal style with the Golden Chariot luxury train. 

Previous winner of “Asia’s Leading Luxury Train” award at the World Travel Awards.This exclusive journey blends cultural heritage, majestic palaces, ancient temples, pristine beaches, wildlife, and scenic backwaters across Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.

Operated by IRCTC & Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation; it is the only Indian luxury train operating in Southern India.

The Golden Chariot offers 3 meticulously curated itineraries:

Pride of Karnataka (6 Days / 5 Nights)

Begin your journey in Bengaluru, then explore:

  • The wildlife of Bandipur National Park
  • Palaces and art in Mysore
  • Ancient temples of Halebidu
  • Coffee estates in Chikmagalur
  • The majestic ruins of Hampi
  • The UNESCO sites of Pattadakal & Aihole
  • Sun-kissed beaches of Goa

Jewels of South (6 Days / 5 Nights)

A cultural odyssey across South India featuring:

  • Palaces of Mysore
  • Iconic shore temples at Mahabalipuram
  • The Chola legacy in Thanjavur
  • Culinary culture in Chettinad
  • Backwater bliss in Kumarakom
  • Colonial charm in Cochin

Glimpses of Karnataka (4 Days / 3 Nights)

A shorter journey perfect for quick getaways:

  • Bandipur’s wildlife safaris
  • Royal heritage in Mysore
  • The architectural marvels of Hampi

Facilities

Launched in 2007 and fully refurbished in 2021, the Golden Chariot has been upgraded recently to deliver a world-class luxury rail experience.. Operated with modern comforts and regal elegance, the train features 44 stylish cabins, two royal-themed dining cars, a plush lounge bar, and a dedicated spa and gym—offering guests the charm of heritage with the comfort of modern amenities.

Deluxe Passenger Cabins

Each of the eleven passenger coaches is named after South Indian dynasties and features four Deluxe Cabins. These cabins offer:

  • Private bathrooms with premium toiletries
  • LCD TV, electronic safe, and wardrobe
  • 220V sockets (carry adapters for sensitive electronics)
  • 24/7 valet assistance

Cabins are available in Queen or Twin bed layouts. One specially designed cabin is available for differently-abled guests. The train accommodates up to 85 guests.

Onboard Dining – Nala and Ruchi

Enjoy South Indian and continental cuisine in the elegant dining cars, Nala and Ruchi. Inspired by temple architecture from Hampi and Halebidu, these restaurants offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a regal ambiance.

Lounge Bar – Madira

Designed to reflect the grandeur of Mysore Palace, Madira offers a relaxed setting where guests can unwind with a wide selection of beverages.

Wellness and Onboard Services

The Golden Chariot offers:

  • Two Ayurvedic massage rooms
  • Fully equipped gym with shower and changing area
  • Fresh meals from an onboard kitchen
  • Non-smoking, centrally air-conditioned coaches
  • Paramedic support
  • Tour Director to coordinate excursions and onboard activities

Train Tour Program

In that section add subsections for all 3 itineraries:

DPride of Karnataka (6 Days / 5 Nights)

Route: Bengaluru – Bandipur – Mysore – Halebidu – Chikmagalur – Hampi – Goa – Bengaluru

Highlights: Wildlife safari, royal palaces, ancient temples, coffee plantations, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and beachside relaxation.

Day 1: Saturday – Bengaluru to Bandipur

  • Report at Yeshwantpur Railway Station by 08:30 hrs for a traditional welcome and check-in.
  • Depart Bengaluru; brunch served onboard.
  • Afternoon safari at Bandipur Tiger Reserve, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife.
  • Return to the train for dinner; overnight halt at Mysore Railway Station.​

Day 2: Sunday – Mysore

  • Morning visit to the Amba Vilas Palace, the former residence of the Wadiyar dynasty.
  • Optional afternoon excursion to Srirangapatna Fort, including Dariya Daulat Bagh and Tipu Sultan's Mausoleum.
  • Dinner onboard; train departs for the next destination

Day 3: Monday – Halebidu and Chikmagalur

  • Morning visit to the 12th-century Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, renowned for its intricate carvings.
  • Afternoon excursion to Chikmagalur's coffee plantations, including coffee tasting and a cultural program.
  • Dinner onboard; train departs for Hospet.​

Day 4: Tuesday – Hampi

  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire.
  • Visit the royal enclosures, temples, and other historical structures.
  • Lunch onboard; afternoon at leisure.​
  • Dinner onboard; train departs for Goa.​

Day 5: Wednesday – Goa

  • Morning visit to the UNESCO-listed churches of Old Goa, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
  • Afternoon at leisure.
  • Evening gala dinner at a beach resort.​
  • Return to the train; overnight journey to Bengaluru.​

Day 6: Thursday – Bengaluru

  • Breakfast onboard.
  • Arrive at Yeshwantpur Railway Station; disembark and farewell.

Glimpses of Karnataka (4 Days / 3 Nights)

Route: Bengaluru – Bandipur – Mysore – Hampi – Bengaluru

Highlights: Wildlife safari, royal palaces, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and cultural excursions​

Day 1: Saturday – Departure from Bengaluru & Bandipur Safari

  • Morning:
    • Arrive at Yeshwantpur Railway Station, Bengaluru by 08:30 hrs for a traditional welcome and check-in.
    • Board the Golden Chariot; brunch served onboard as the train departs.
  • Afternoon:
    • Disembark at Nanjangud Town Railway Station around 14:00 hrs.
    • Drive approximately two hours to reach Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
    • Enjoy an evening jungle safari in Bandipur, once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Mysore, now home to Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife.
    • Return to the train by 20:15 hrs for a late dinner.
    • Overnight onboard; train stabled at Mysore. ​Golden Chariot
  • Note: Guests who prefer not to participate in the jungle excursion may remain onboard the train.

Day 2: Sunday – Mysore Sightseeing & Optional Srirangapatna Excursion

  • Morning:
    • After breakfast, visit the Amba Vilas Palace (Mysore Palace), an architectural marvel rebuilt in the late 19th century under British supervision.
    • Explore the Durbar Hall and the royal family's private art gallery.
    • Return to the train for lunch. ​Golden Chariot
  • Afternoon (Optional):
    • Choose to relax onboard or embark on an optional excursion to Srirangapatna Fort, an 18th-century fortress located on a riverbank.
    • Visit Dariya Daulat Bagh and Tipu Sultan's Mausoleum.
    • Return to the train for dinner. ​Golden Chariot
  • Note: The optional Srirangapatna excursion is available at an additional cost and can be booked onboard.

Day 3: Monday – Hampi Exploration

  • Morning:
    • After breakfast, disembark at Hospet Railway Station.
    • Proceed to explore the ruins of Hampi, the 15th-century capital of the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Discover the palace complex, temples, and other historical structures in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
    • Return to the train for lunch. ​Golden Chariot
  • Afternoon:
    • Leisure time onboard.
    • Dinner served onboard as the train departs for Bengaluru. ​Golden Chariot

Please Note:

  • The itinerary is subject to change based on local logistics and operational considerations.
  • The tour operates with a minimum of 25 passengers.
  • Optional excursions, such as the Srirangapatna Fort visit, are available at an additional cost and can be booked onboard with the Guest Relations Executive.

Jewels of South (6 Days / 5 Nights)

Route: Mysore – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram – Thanjavur – Chettinad/Karaikudi – Cochin – Kumarakom – Bengaluru

Highlights:Royal palaces, UNESCO World Heritage sites, temple towns, colonial architecture, and Kerala backwaters (Southern Splendour Tour with The Golden Chariot Train)

Day 1: Saturday – Departure from Bengaluru & Mysore Exploration

  • Morning:
    • Arrive at Yeshwantpur Railway Station, Bengaluru by 08:30 hrs for a traditional welcome and check-in.
    • Board the Golden Chariot; brunch served onboard as the train departs.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Amba Vilas Palace (Mysore Palace), an architectural marvel rebuilt in the late 19th century under British supervision.
    • Explore the Durbar Hall and the royal family's private art gallery.
    • Return to the train for dinner; train departs for Chengalpattu.

Day 2: Sunday – Kanchipuram & Mahabalipuram

  • Morning:
    • Optional excursion to Kanchipuram, renowned for its ancient temples and silk sarees.
    • Alternatively, relax onboard the train.
  • Afternoon
    • After lunch onboard, proceed to Mahabalipuram to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rock-cut temples and shore monuments dating back to the 8th century.
    • Enjoy dinner at a beachfront hotel before returning to the train; train departs for Thanjavur.(Golden Chariot Itinerary | Luxury Train Journey)

Day 3: Monday – Thanjavur & Chettinad

  • Morning:
  • Afternoon:
    • After lunch, visit the Athangudi tile-making factory and explore the grand Chettinad mansions in Karaikudi, showcasing a blend of architectural influences and opulent interiors adorned with artifacts from around the world.
    • Return to the train for dinner; train departs for Cochin. (Golden Chariot Itinerary | Luxury Train Journey)

Day 4: Tuesday – Cochin Exploration

  • Morning:
    • Visit the 17th-century Mattancherry Palace, built in traditional Kerala style with European influences, featuring rare examples of traditional flooring and Hindu temple murals.
    • Enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance, showcasing stories from Hindu epics through elaborate costumes and expressive movements.
    • Return to the train for lunch.
  • Afternoon

Day 5: Wednesday – Kumarakom Backwaters

  • Morning:
    • Enjoy a houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, experiencing the tranquil landscapes and traditional village life.
    • Lunch served onboard the houseboat.
    • Return to the train by evening; dinner onboard. (Golden Chariot Itinerary | Luxury Train Journey)
  • Afternoon:
    • After lunch, visit the Athangudi tile-making factory and explore the grand Chettinad mansions in Karaikudi, showcasing a blend of architectural influences and opulent interiors adorned with artifacts from around the world.
    • Return to the train for dinner; train departs for Cochin. (Golden Chariot Itinerary | Luxury Train Journey)

Day 6: Thursday – Return to Bengaluru

  • Morning:
    • Breakfast served onboard.
    • Arrive at Yeshwantpur Railway Station, Bengaluru.
    • Disembark and conclude the journey.

Please Note:

  • The itinerary is subject to change based on local logistics and operational considerations.
  • Optional excursions, such as visits to Kanchipuram and Thanjavur, are available at an additional cost and can be booked onboard with the Guest Relations Executive.

SCHEDULE 2017-18 Season

7 Nights Southern Splendour Circuit Depart Bangalore
Month Departure Dates
Oct 2017 16
Nov 2017 20
Dec 2017 25*
Jan 2018 08
Feb 2018 19
Note :
  • Train Tour will operate subject to minimum 20 passengers OR advance received will refunded

"The Golden Chariot Train has gone for Major Renovation work & expected to restart operations from Feb 2020"

Tariff : 2017-18 Season

Dual Tariff for Indian & Foreign Nationals
Tariff for Foreign Nationals is also in INR Rupees, which can be paid in equivalent foreign exchange
COST PER CABIN (Add Taxes Extra)
7 Nights Southern Splendour Circuit
Occupancy Type For Foreign Nationals (in Indian Rupees) For Indian Nationals (in Rupees)
For 1 Person on Single Occupancy Rs 4,16,500/- Rs 2,17,000/-
For 2 Persons on Double Occupancy Rs 6,33,080/- Rs 3,50,000/-
For 3 Persons On Triple Occupancy Rs 8,21,100/- Rs 4,20,000/-
Note:
  • Taxes extra as applicable on date of journey
  • 10% Holiday Surcharge Extra for 25 Dec 2017 depart
  • Children< 12 yrs charged 50% of adult cost
  • Children< 5 yrs are complimentary without bed
  • Foreign Nationals can pay in Foreign Exchange as per equivalent rate of exchange
Train Tour cost Includes :

Travel & stay Onboard in private A/C sleeping chambers with attached bathrooms; Bed Tea & Daily three meals; Group excursions & sightseeing tours by air-conditioned buses with English speaking guide; Monument entrance fees, Bottled drinking water; Backwaters cruise in Alleppey; Cultural program in Madurai & Bangalore.

Extra Costs(not included) :

Video Camera fees at monuments; alcoholic & non alcoholic beverages; laundry; room services; telephone calls; use of spa & business centre facilities; tips; porter charges, tour insurance; airport & railway station transfers; hotel stay; Arrangements for Visa travel documents for India; & all other expenses of personal nature

"The Golden Chariot Train has gone for Major Renovation work & expected to restart operations from Feb 2020"

Terms & Conditions

Booking Procedure:
  • Advise departure date & number of cabins required
  • We require Names/Nationality/date of birth of all the passengers to process your booking request
  • Your booking will be confirmed On receipt of minimum 25% advance deposit of total ticket value,
  • Balance payment must reach us at least 35 days before tour date with copy of passports of all passengers
  • Booking request made < 35 days before tour depart will be confirmed on one time full payment
Cancellation Rules :
  • The Golden Chariot Train is owned & operated by Tourism Depatment of Karnataka & liability of Royal Indian Trains is limited to that of booking agent only
  • Cancellation request must be made in writing & acknowledged by us
  • MINIMUM cancellation levy of 20% of total ticket value if cancellation request made > 31 days before tour depart
  • Minimum Cancellation levy of 50% of total ticket value if request made <31 days & > 16 days prior to tour depart
  • Cancellation levy of full 100% of total ticket value if request made <16 days prior to tour depart
  • Train Tour Operator reserves the right to cancel the scheduled depart due to technical reasons OR Minimum passenger Clause And maximum liability of Royal Indian Trains is to refund advance received for train booking (with no further libiality)
  • Clients are liable to pay TAX as applicable on date of journey & not as per advance received Or ticket issued
  • Disputes (if any) are only subject to jurisdiction of Courts of New Delhi(India)
Payment Options :
  • Either by Online credit card authorization (only VISA/ MASTERCARD accepted)
    OR
  • By Swift wire Transfer
    OR
  • Indians can pay by RTGS/NEFT Transfer

"The Golden Chariot Train has gone for Major Renovation work & expected to restart operations from Feb 2020"

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