The Golden Chariot – Luxury Train Journey Through South India

The Golden Chariot is an iconic luxury train journey that offers an extraordinary exploration of South India’s rich heritage, royal history, and breathtaking landscapes. Inspired by the architectural brilliance of the Hoysala dynasty, this luxury train takes travelers through culturally vibrant destinations while providing world-class comfort, elegance, and hospitality onboard. Designed to reflect the grandeur of royal palaces, the Golden Chariot combines timeless traditions with modern luxury, making every moment of the journey truly unforgettable.

Experience Heritage Like Never Before

This remarkable journey unfolds as a cultural voyage through some of South India’s most celebrated destinations, showcasing magnificent palaces, ancient temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the royal charm of Mysore and the architectural marvels of Hampi to the serene beauty of Karnataka’s wildlife and the coastal allure of Goa, travelers are immersed in history, spirituality, and natural splendor at every stop.

Luxury Onboard Amenities

Life aboard the Golden Chariot is defined by unmatched luxury and comfort. Guests enjoy elegantly designed cabins equipped with modern amenities, gourmet dining experiences serving regional and international cuisines, a well-stocked lounge bar, and rejuvenating spa facilities. Personalized service, refined interiors, and thoughtfully curated experiences ensure a relaxed and indulgent journey throughout.

Explore the Jewels of South India

he Golden Chariot journey takes travelers across royal cities, spiritual centers, and scenic landscapes, offering guided excursions, cultural performances, and exclusive access to historic landmarks. From exploring royal palaces and bustling local markets to witnessing architectural masterpieces and enjoying wildlife safaris, this journey presents South India in its most authentic and luxurious form.

Why Choose the Golden Chariot?

✔ One of South India’s most iconic luxury train journeys
✔ Seamless multi-destination travel with curated excursions
✔ Rich royal heritage, temples & cultural experiences
✔ Premium cabins, fine dining & luxury onboard amenities
✔ Perfect for luxury travelers, couples & international guests

Overview

Itinerary

Destination Covered

Bangalore – Kabini/Bandipur – Mysore – Hassan – Hospet – Badami – Goa – Bangalore

Day 01 :

Bangalore Depart

Self Report by 4.00 pm (1600 hrs) at Hotel Taj West End, Bangalore for check in formalities of Golden Chariot Tour, followed by Hi-Tea & brief tour presentation. At 530 p.m. board A/C buses & proceeds to Chitrakala Parishad to enjoy cultural program & later be escorted to Yashwantpura Railway Station (Bangalore) to board The Golden Chariot Train by 8 p.m.; after traditional welcome. The train departs from Bangalore by 9 p.m. Dinner on board

Day 02 :

Drive From Mysore / Kabini - Overnight Stay

Train arrives early morning at Mysore Station. After breakfast, pack overnight clothes & by 10 a.m. board A/C bus for 2.5 hrs long drive to Kabini Forest Reserve (Nagarhole), after brief visit to Mysore Palace. Drive 2.5 hrs from Mysore Station to Kabini Forest Reserve & check-into forest lodge. Check-into Jungle Lodge on arrival at Kabini, followed by lunch & brief rest. Late afternoon jeep excursion to Nagarhole Jungles, former hunting retreat of Mysore Royalty Forests of Kabini /Bandipur/Nagarhole are spread over 600 square kilometers & was declared protected reserve in 1973 under Project Tiger; and now called Rajiv Gandhi National park Mostly covered by teak, rosewood & dry deciduous forest; it is home to elephants, tigers, leopard, herds of deer, wild boars etc, besides numerous birds and reptiles Return to the Jungle Lodge to share excitement of sighting of various wild animals over screening of wild life film, followed by dinner Night Stay in jungle lodge at Kabini.

Day 03 :

Mysore Palace & Srirangapatna Fort

Early morning boat ride in Kabini River, to view some of the 80 species of aquatic birds After breakfast, board AC Bus by 930 a.m. & drive back to Mysore Railway Station to board Golden Chariot Train for brief rest & lunch

Afternoon: Mysore

Afternoon excursion to 18th century built Srirangapatnam Fort, famous for battles between British Colonial forces & legendry Mysore Warrior King Tipu Sultan. Time free for shopping & later enjoy cultural program followed by dinner at Lalita Mahal Palace Hotel Return to the train by 10 p.m. which is stabled overnight at Mysore Station.

Day 04 :

Gomateswara Hill Monolith

Early morning 6 a.m. the train departs from Mysore Station to reach Hassan Railway Station by 8.15 a.m. After breakfast, board AC buses for drive to Shravanabelagola & climb 700 steps up a steep hill, to view the 57 feet high monolithic statue of Jain Monk, Lord Gomateswara, built in 10th century (OPTION to stay back in the train, if not interested for the steep hill climb) Return to the train at Hassan Railway station by 1 p.m. for lunch & brief rest.

Afternoon excursion to architectural marvels of Belur & Halebid temple complex, with intricately carved statues, built under the royal patronage of Hosalya Dynasty in 12th century. Return to the train by 715 p.m. & depart. Dinner on board.

Day 05 :

HAMPI - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Train arrives at Hospet railway station by 8 a.m. In 14th century ;Hampi was capital city of mighty & rich Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled most of South India Peninsula & even had controlling interest in south east Asia The ruins of once impressive Palace Complex spread over 26 square km. boulder strewn landscape, still bear strong testament of same Morning visit Virupaksha temple, Queens Palace, Elephant stables, Royal Enclosure and Hazara Rama temple Return to train by 1 p.m. for lunch & brief rest Late afternoon 430 p.m. proceed for excursion to Vittala temple Complex with musical pillars & an iconic architectural masterpiece of Stone Chariot, after which your train is named. Return to train for Dinner by 8 p.m. 7 train stabled at Hospet station for the night.

Day 06 :

UNESCO World Heritage Site of Badami and Pattadakal

Train departs from Hospet at 5 a.m. to reach Badami railway station by 7.30 a.m. Morning visit cave sculptures at Badami, carved out of sand stone hills in 6th century; most imposing being 18 armed Natraja striking 81 cosmic dance poses. Later, proceed for excursion to 8th century built Pattadakal Temple complex, offering unique confluence of Dravidian and Indo-Aryan styles of temple architecture. Return to train by 1.30 p.m. & depart. Day at leisure. Lunch & Dinner on board.

Day 07 :

Goa Churches & Golden Beaches

Train reaches Vasco de Gama railway station early morning. Board AC Buses by 10 a.m. to visit UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Goa, famous for 16th century built Portuguese churches later visit Medieval Portuguese building & time free for shopping. Proceed for lunch at popular beach resort hotel Time at leisure to enjoy sea sports (at extra costs) or relax by swimming pool/beach Return to train by 530 p.m. & depart. Dinner on board.

Day 08 :

Bangalore Return

The train arrives back at Yashwantpura Railway station, Bangalore by 11 a.m. Check-out on arrival. Tour ends.

Golden Chariot