Golden Chariot – The Luxury Train of South India (Complete Guide)
Introduction to the Golden Chariot
Golden Chariot is one of India’s most prestigious luxury trains, specially designed to showcase the rich heritage, royal history, temples, palaces, and natural beauty of South India. Named after the famous Stone Chariot at Hampi, this luxury train offers a royal travel experience through Karnataka, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.
Operated by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) in association with Indian Railways, the Golden Chariot is often described as “a five-star hotel on wheels.”
Why the Golden Chariot Is Special
Golden Chariot stands out because it focuses exclusively on South Indian culture and heritage, unlike other luxury trains that mainly cover North India.
Key Highlights
- Palace-inspired interiors
- Luxury cabins with modern amenities
- Fine-dining restaurants onboard
- Wellness spa & fitness facilities
- Guided heritage tours and temple visits
- Beaches, wildlife, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Design & Royal Interiors
Exterior Design
- Purple and gold color theme
- Traditional South Indian motifs
- Elegant coach design inspired by Dravidian architecture
Interior Ambience
Inside the Golden Chariot, guests experience:
- Silk upholstery and carved wooden panels
- Royal décor reflecting South Indian dynasties
- Warm lighting and spacious layouts
Each coach is named after historical dynasties and cultural symbols of South India.
Cabins & Accommodation
Golden Chariot offers luxurious air-conditioned cabins with attached bathrooms.
Cabin Features
- Twin or double bed configuration
- En-suite bathroom with premium fittings
- LCD TV & entertainment system
- Wi-Fi (route dependent)
- Personal attendant service
- Climate control
Though it does not have a full presidential coach like Maharajas’ Express, the comfort level is extremely high and comparable to 5-star hotels.
Dining Experience on Golden Chariot
Onboard Restaurants
Golden Chariot has two fine-dining restaurants:
- Ruchi – Indian cuisine
- Nalapaka – International cuisine
Cuisine Offered
- Authentic South Indian dishes
- North Indian and continental food
- Jain & vegetarian options
- Custom dietary meals
Meals are served in a royal dining setting, with attentive staff and premium tableware.
Lounge, Bar & Wellness Facilities
Madira Bar
- Premium Indian & international spirits
- Wine and cocktails
- Elegant lounge seating
Spa & Fitness
Golden Chariot is the only Indian luxury train with a dedicated spa coach:
- Ayurvedic therapies
- Massage treatments
- Gym and fitness equipment
This makes it ideal for travelers seeking luxury + wellness.
Routes & Itineraries of Golden Chariot
Golden Chariot operates specially curated routes covering South India’s most iconic destinations.
Popular Destinations Covered
- Bengaluru (Bangalore)
- Mysuru (Mysore Palace)
- Hampi (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Badami, Pattadakal & Aihole
- Goa (beaches & churches)
- Mahabalipuram
- Thanjavur
- Madurai
- Kochi (select itineraries)
Off-Train Experiences
- Temple visits with guides
- Palace tours
- Cultural dance & music shows
- Wildlife safaris
- Beach leisure time in Goa
All excursions are pre-planned and included.
Ticket Price of Golden Chariot
Approximate Cost
- Starts from ₹3.5 lakh per person
- Can go up to ₹7–8 lakh per person, depending on route and season
Price Includes
- Luxury accommodation
- All meals & beverages
- Sightseeing & excursions
- Entry fees
- Cultural programs
- Transport & guides
This makes Golden Chariot an all-inclusive luxury travel experience.
Who Should Choose the Golden Chariot?
Golden Chariot is perfect for:
- International tourists exploring South India
- Culture & heritage lovers
- Luxury travelers seeking comfort with tradition
- Couples & senior travelers
- Wellness & leisure tourists
It is especially popular among travelers who want temples, history, and beaches in one journey.
Golden Chariot vs Other Luxury Trains
| Feature | Golden Chariot | Maharajas’ Express |
|---|---|---|
| Region Covered | South India | North & Central India |
| Luxury Level | Premium–Luxury | Ultra-Luxury |
| Spa Facility | Yes | Limited |
| Focus | Temples, culture, beaches | Royal palaces & forts |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Awards & Recognition
Golden Chariot has received:
- National tourism awards
- Recognition for promoting South Indian heritage
- High ratings from international luxury travelers
Final Verdict
Golden Chariot is the best luxury train for exploring South India.
It combines royal comfort, cultural depth, spiritual destinations, wellness, and scenic beauty in a single, seamless journey.
For travelers who want to experience India beyond the Taj Mahal, the Golden Chariot is the perfect choice.
BOOKING PROCEDURE OF GOLDEN CHARIOT
1. Visit the Official Website
Go to: https://www.goldenchariot.org
This is the official website for Golden Chariot where booking procedures and itinerary details are provided.
2. Choose Your Journey
The Golden Chariot offers multiple luxury itineraries such as:
a) Glimpses of Karnataka
b) Jewels of South
c) Pride of Karnataka
Each journey has fixed departure dates, durations (typically 3 Nights/4 Days to 5 Nights/6 Days) and destinations.
3. Check Schedule & Fare
View the departure dates, train schedule and fare structure and proceed ahead with booking of your cabin.
Prices vary depending on journey selected.
4. Fill the Booking Form
Click on “Book Now” or “Reserve Your Cabin” and provide:
a) Journey name
b) Preferred departure date
c) Number of guests
d) Choice of Twin/Double Bedded Cabin
e) Contact details
5. Make Payment
Once details are filled, one can pay via Payment Gateway Page (various payment options viz credit card, debit card, EMI, UPI etc.) or through authorised IRCTC agents.
The guest can reserve the journey with 20% advance payment and balance payment due 30 days for individual guests and 60 days for guests through agents before departure.
6. Receive Confirmation
After successful payment, one will get a confirmation email.
E-ticket / Travel voucher and instructions about boarding and itinerary details.
One can also book journeys of Golden Chariot through IRCTC Offices and authorized agents of IRCTC.
