The luxury tourist train Golden Chariot, which depicts the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka, is all set to hit the tracks this year from December 14 in a new avatar, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) said in a statement on Thursday.
Scheduled for the 2024-2025 season, the first Pride of Karnataka train will begin its journey on December 14 from Bangalore covering Bandipur, Mysore, Halebidu, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Goa and back to Bangalore, according to IRCTC officials. The journey will be completed in 5 nights and 6 days.
The Southern Treasures train will depart on December 21
The second train, Jewels of South, will start on December 21 from Bengaluru, covering Mysore, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, Chettinad, Cochin, Chertala and back to Bengaluru. The journey will be completed in 5 nights and 6 days.
On January 4, February 1 and March 1, the Pride of Karnataka train will run again and on February 15, the Jewels of South train will begin its second journey. Golden Chariot offers world-class onboard accommodation with 13 double cabins, 26 double cabins and 1 cabin for guests with various disabilities. The train can accommodate up to 80 guests in 40 cabins.
The train boasts several on-board features and amenities such as refurbished luxurious cabins with soft furnishings, elegant draperies and well-appointed bathrooms, crockery and cutlery from renowned international brands and an exquisite range of linens. Smart TVs with various WIFI subscriptions offering an infotainment system for guests, IRCTC said in a statement.
Objects on the Golden Chariot
The train is also well-equipped with CCTV cameras and a fire alarm system to provide guests with enhanced security. For the rest and relaxation of guests on board, Golden Chariot has a dedicated Arogya Spa where guests can enjoy a variety of spa therapies including Arogya Spa Therapy. The spa was also equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment for fitness enthusiasts.
Golden Chariot has two fine dining restaurants, namely Ruchi and Nalapak, serving a variety of international and local delicacies. Madira Bar serves a selection of wines, beers and spirits.
The Golden Chariot luxury tourist train fare includes all meals on board and house wines, tours in air-conditioned coaches, entrance fees to the monument and meals in outdoor areas according to the route. Interested tourists can contact IRCTC through various platforms. Notably, the train was launched in 2020 and upgraded in 2022 with new amenities following COVID-19.
