Golden Chariot

Overview

|| Suswagatham ||

Reliving History through a sojourn of Luxury

Welcome aboard the Golden Chariot – South India’s one and only luxury train that brings to you a journey of eternal joy, worthy of royalty. The Golden chariot takes you through a fascinating journey into the era of Kings, Queens, Dynasties and royal elegances. The Golden Chariot offers you a beautiful insight into the treasure trove of archaeology, enchanting architecture, wildlife and culture in some of the heavenly destinations of South India.

Crafted for Royalty

Having been declared “Asia’s Leading Luxury Train” at the World Travel Awards 2013. The Golden Chariot train was commissioned in 2008 by Karnataka Tourism in association with Ministry of Railways, Government of India and Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to provide the discerning rail travelers, an option to explore the history and culture of Karnataka in the luxurious comforts of a specially designed train.

Covering the entirety of the South of Karnataka, The Golden Chariot seeks to enthrall you in journey that spans through a vast majority of its incredible empires.

A JOURNEY TO SAVOR
EXPERIENCE THE FINEST THINGS IN LIFE

The Golden Chariot is brimming with royal amenities to suit your every need. Boasting 13 coaches designed to serve your every need and fully equipped with modern day amenities, the Golden Chariot offers luxury beyond your imagination!
The lounge bar of the Golden Chariot blends royalty with a truly magnificent ambience coupled with performances by talented artisans that make for an experience like no other.

FIT FOR ANY KING
A TOUCH OF ROYALTY EVERYWHERE

The Golden Chariot’s specialty restaurants are complemented by a sumptuous Indian and Continental cuisine that are a perfect fit for any Royal Palate. Enjoy a unique menu every day to fill your appetite.
With top of the line Spa Services, indulge in a relaxing experience that will seek to rid you of stress and fatigue. Discover the elixir of good life with traditional and age old massages.
Rejuvenate yourself with a workout to stay at the peak of your fitness even when on-the-go with world class gym facilities.

A TOUCH OF ROYALTY ALL THE WAY

The interiors of the saloon reflect the intricately carved Hoysala style of art & architecture of 12th century. The train features 11 guest carriages with 04 guest cabins in each with en-suite bathrooms. The guest cabins are a mix of 13 Double Bed Cabins, 30 Twin Bed Cabins and 1 Cabin for specially abled, where liveried Valets attend to each guest requirements. Each cabin contains a small wardrobe, vanity desk, LCD TV, electric sockets for recharging and a private washroom.

IMMERSED IN LUXURY

The Golden Chariot has two restaurant coaches (Dining Cars) named NALPAKA & RUCHI, with décor inspired by the grandeur of the Hampi & Halebidu temples. A wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian culinary delicacies from various parts of the world coupled with an array of Indian options are available in these dining cars. The lounge bar coach known as “Madira” is yet another royal glamour, it has plush and royal interiors, modeled after the early 20th century Mysuru Palace. The bar serves choicest wines, beers and spirits.

SPA AND GYM FOR ROYAL REJUVENATION
BUSINESS CENTRE TO KEEP YOU CONNECTED

Arogya, the Spa cum Health Club combines traditional Auyrvedic Spa therapies & modern workout machines for the guests to rejuvenate their mind, body & soul to get relieved from modem day fatigue & stress. A fully equipped gym to fulfill your fitness regime is at your disposal. Our well-equipped business center awaits the modern day traveler to attend to their business requirements anytime.

• Inclusive tariff
• Enjoy a variety of meals featuring a blend of both Indian and international cuisines throughout your journey.
• Complimentary house wines, spirits and beers
• Sightseeing with entrance fee
• Services of experienced Tour Director
• Excursions in air conditioned buses
• Opt for optional excursions at an extra cost, providing you with a choice to enhance your travel experience.
• Paramedic Onboard
• Round-the-clock Valet Service
• Ensuite Shower and WC
• Every cabin is equipped with a television and an infotainment system for your entertainment.
• Electronics Safe in all Cabins
• Mix of Twin & Double Bed Cabins
• CCTV cameras, smoke alarms and 24X7 security

Itinerary

An Incredible Journey with a Memorable Experience

The Golden Chariot train offers itineraries that blend the rich tapestry of history, culture, nature, and tradition of South India. The well-paced itineraries enable travelers to immerse themselves in the grand landscapes, explore significant attractions at each destination, and unwind in the luxurious confines of the train.
Pride of Karnataka

Pride of Karnataka

Bengaluru – Nanjangud – Mysore – Halebidu - Chikamgaluru – Hospet – Goa – Bengaluru

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Jewels of South

Jewels of South

Bengaluru – Mysore – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram – Thanjavur – Chettinad/Karaikudi – Cochin – Chertala/Maraikulam – Bengaluru

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Glimpses of Karnataka

Glimpses of Karnataka

Bengaluru – Nanjangud – Mysore – Hospet – Bengaluru

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Bengaluru

In Bengaluru, Karnataka's capital, modernity and ancient culture coexist harmoniously in this splendid neo-metro. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness with a traditional art exhibition and folk dance performance at the Chithrakala Parishad. Alternatively, experience a glimpse of village life in India by checking in at Our Native Village. Moreover, discover the exciting experiences awaiting you on The Golden Chariot.

Mysuru, the former capital of the Wodeyar Maharajas, boasts opulent palaces and serves as a hub for sandalwood carving, silk, and incense production. A brief coach trip from Mysore leads to the capital of South India's tiger, Tipu Sultan, at Srirangapatna. Explore his summer palace and Gumbaz, delving into the history of two centuries ago.

Departing from Hassan, situated in the Karnataka countryside, the voyage to Asia's tallest monolith at Shravanabelagola is a short one. After relishing a lavish lunch onboard The Golden Chariot, immerse yourself in the splendor of 10th-century Hoysala architecture at Belur and Halebeedu in the afternoon. Explore the temple courtyards of this UNESCO World Heritage Site to marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of sculptures, friezes, and ornate pillars.

Explore the magnificence of the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in Hampi, located just 13 kilometers away from Hospet. Magnificent temples and courtyards, peppered in between the ruins of what might have been resplendent palaces a few centuries ago, vie for your attention here. This, together with the boulder strewn sandscape and the Tungabhadra river gives Hampi a charm that is almost ethereal.

Begin your day in the historic city, the former capital of the Chalukya Empire, known for its Hindu architecture. Ascend a flight of steps to explore four ancient rock-cut caves adorned with carved pillars, bracket figures, and sculptures. Noteworthy among them is the 18-armed Nataraja, showcasing 81 dance poses. In close proximity lies Pattadakal, housing some of the earliest examples of Dravidian and Nagara architecture in India.

Explore this renowned beach paradise known for its carefree spirit and relaxed vibes. Immerse yourself in the Portuguese history of the state by strolling through its magnificent churches and Portuguese homes. Alternatively, unwind and indulge in excellent seafood, casino experiences, and spa services to set the right tone.

Tariffs

Golden Chariot Fare for Season 2025-26

Tariff per Person in USD (For Foreign Passport Holders)
Occupancy Pride of Karnataka / Jewels of South
Glimpses of Karnataka
Deluxe Cabin 4740 3160
Single Supplement 3560 2370
  • Accommodation in double / twin bedded cabins with en suite bathrooms. 
  • All meals, soft beverages, house brands of Indian wines, beer and spirits. 
  • Butler service. 
  • Guided off train excursions as illustrated in the journeys inclusive of entrance fees, still camera fee, transport and services of a guide. 
  • Complimentary tea, coffee and packaged drinking water on board. 
  • Porterage at stations. 
  • Services of Paramedic On-board. For guests booked in Deluxe Cabin, the transport would be a Volvo bus/Tempo traveler/Volkswagen crafter with a common English-speaking guide depending on the number of pax.
  • Taxes, Insurance, Gratuities
  • Telephone calls, laundry, alcoholic beverages beyond house brands served in designated areas.
  • Fees for video, film, and professional still camera use.
  • Arrival and departure transfers.
  • International and domestic air tickets.
  • Pre and post-tour accommodations and extensions unless.
  • specified in the journey details.

Christmas & New Year, Signature Journey Supplement Charges

  • A supplementary charge of USD 500 per person will apply for individuals traveling during the tour on New Year's Eve and Christmas.
  • The supplementary charge is applicable to children aged 5 to 12 years as well.
  • Additional charges may apply for specific signature journeys, and these will be announced periodically.

Child Policy

The Golden Chariot welcomes children on board, but we kindly request parents to be considerate of the refined adult ambiance that we strive to uphold.

  • Children under the age of 5 will be accommodated free of charge, provided they share a double bed with their parents. This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking.
  • Single child (5 years - 12 years) - 50% of the adult fare, subject to sharing of double bed with parents. This is subject to availability of double bed at the time of booking.
  • All applicable taxes will be charged extra.

Booking Policy

In case of FITs:

  • To confirm the booking, a payment of 20% of the ticket value is required.
  • Remaining 80% of ticket value 90 days prior to departure.

In case of Group:

  • 10% of ticket value at the time of confirming the booking.
  • Next 15% (i.e. cumulative 25%) of published price 90 days prior to departure.
  • Balance payment 60 days prior to departure.
  • The list of names must be submitted 45 days before the departure date for insurance, off-board services, cabin allocation, and other purposes.

Cancellation Policy

In case of FITs:

  • 20% of the ticket value if cancellation is made until 60 days prior to departure.
  • 40% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 45-59 days prior to departure.
  • 100% of the ticket value if the cancellation is made 44 days prior to departure.

In case of Group:

  • 5% of the ticket value if cancellation is made until 120 days prior to departure.
  • 10% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 90-119 days prior to departure.
  • 25% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 60-89 days prior to departure.
  • 50% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 30-59 days prior to departure.
  • 100% of the ticket value if the cancellation is made 29 days prior to departure.

No Show / En Route Termination of Tour / Amendment

No Show - If the guest does not show up or arrives on the scheduled date (No Show), there will be no refund or opportunity for future adjustments. The entire amount paid will be considered forfeited.

En route termination of tour - If the guest terminates the tour for any reason, no refund or credit for future travel will be provided. The unused portion of the tour amount will be considered forfeited.

Amendment - Refund or rescheduling is only feasible in situations such as a natural disaster, calamity, or severe health problems (supported by a doctor's certificate) and is contingent upon availability. No automatic refunds are guaranteed, and each case will be assessed individually based on its merits.

Glimpses of Karnataka - 3 Nights / 4 Days
MonthSaturday
Dec 2513
Oct 2619,31
Dec 2619
Feb 2706
Pride of Karnataka - 5 Nights / 6 Days
MonthSaturday
Nov 2501
Dec 2527
Jan 2624
Feb 2628
Oct 2624
Nov 2614
Dec 2626
Jan 2702,30
Feb 2727
Mar 2713
Jewels of South - 5 Nights / 6 Days
MonthSaturday
Oct 2511
Jan 2610
Oct 2603
Nov 2628
Jan 2709
Feb 2720
Mar 2727

Offers

Pay for One & your Companion Pays 50% only

Applicable for all Nationalities

On the below departures on the booking of first adult on twin sharing at full cost, the second adult sharing the same cabin will get 50% discount on the adult cost. Offer valid till the date of departure and is subject to availability of cabins.

Journeys Date  
Journeys Name
11th Oct 2025 Jewels of South (5N/6D)
27th Oct 2025 Pride of Karnataka (5N/6D)
10th Jan 2026 Jewels of South (5N/6D)
28th Feb 2026 Pride of Karnataka (5N/6D)

Terms & Conditions

  • This offer is applicable on the above mentioned 04 departure only.
  • The payment for the 01st Adult will be as per the normal terms and conditions and for the 02nd adult availing 50% discount, will have to make full non-refundable payment.
  • This offer is not transferable.
  • This offer cannot be clubbed with any other offers.
  • This offer is on First Come First Served Basis and depends on the availability of cabins/suites on the particular trip.
  • Management reserves right to call back the offer at any moment.
  • The decision of the Management is final in all disputes.
  • Other general Terms & Conditions of Maharajas’ Express shall apply in addition to this.
  • Offer is valid till the date of departure.

Other Terms & Conditions


Child Policy:

Single child (5 years -12 years) + one adult in a separate cabin: - Two adults fare on twin sharing basis.

In such cases, where two adults fare are being charged, the second pax being child sharing the same cabin will get 50% discount on the adult cost paid. For any other permutation and combination the existing child policy will prevail.

Presidential Suite:

  • In case two adults: the second adult sharing the same cabin will get 50% discount on the adult cost
  • In case three adults: the second adult sharing the same cabin will get 50% discount on the adult cost and third adult on full cost
  • In case four adults: the two adults sharing the same cabin will get 50% discount on the adult cost

Cancellation Charge:

In case of the cancellation the prevailing terms and conditions shall apply, keeping in view the below two points.

  • In case of Companion Offer, the cancellation charges for the 1 st Adult who pays full adult fare shall be charges as per the existing cancellation policy and the companion who pays 50% of the adult fare will be charged whole of the 50% as cancellation charge irrespective of no of days from the date of cancellation and the date of departure.
  • In case of No Show of 02nd adult on twin sharing cabin under the Companion Offer, the applicable difference in amount calculated as per single occupancy cabin basis will be charged from the 01st adult.

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