Karnataka’s luxury tourist train, the Golden Chariot, will begin its 2026–27 season on October 24 with upgraded onboard facilities and itineraries covering wildlife, royal heritage, UNESCO World Heritage sites, coffee plantations and coastal destinations. The first five-night, six-day journey, Pride of Karnataka, is fully booked, with 75 guests expected onboard. Around 60 staff members will provide hospitality and other services during the trip. Scroll down to learn more.
Karnataka’s Golden Chariot Will Resume Its Service On October 24
According to The Indian Express, ticket prices range from ₹2.53 lakh to ₹4.87 lakh per person, excluding 5% GST. The itinerary covers Bandipur’s wildlife, Mysuru’s royal heritage, the historic temples of Belur and Halebidu, Chikkamagaluru’s coffee estates, Hampi’s heritage sites and Goa’s coastal and Indo-Portuguese legacy.
Tourism Minister KJ George told the portal that the Golden Chariot’s distinction lies not only in the train’s luxury but also in its ability to bring together diverse experiences in one journey, adding that the train aims to showcase Karnataka’s tourism offerings to travellers from India and abroad.
Ahead of the new season, the train underwent scheduled maintenance at the Mysuru workshop between May and August 2026. Its exterior was refreshed, while onboard facilities were upgraded. These included a modernised kitchen equipped with a combi oven and high-capacity induction systems, along with an improved reverse osmosis (RO) water purification plant.
Also Read: Railways Follows FDAs Lead With Inspections At Station Canteens; Thane Stall Sealed
Golden Chariot’s 2026–27 Routes And Itineraries
Thirteen luxury journeys are planned for the 2026–27 season: seven Pride of Karnataka trips, three Glimpses of Karnataka journeys and three Jewels of South itineraries. The Pride of Karnataka journey begins in Bengaluru, with guests travelling to Bandipur for a wildlife safari before exploring Mysuru Palace. The following days include visits to Halebidu’s heritage monuments, a coffee plantation experience in Chikkamagaluru and the historic ruins of Hampi. The journey continues to Goa, where guests can visit North Goa’s churches and enjoy a gala dinner before returning to Bengaluru.
The Jewels of South itinerary combines Mysuru with destinations such as Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, Chettinad, Kochi and Kumarakom. Experiences include heritage visits, traditional cultural performances, Chettinad mansions and a houseboat cruise. The shorter Glimpses of Karnataka journey focuses on Bandipur, Mysuru and Hampi, with opportunities to explore wildlife, royal heritage and the Vijayanagara kingdom’s former capital.
Also Read: Chinese Food Lovers, Take Note! Maharashtra FDA To Soon Inspect Chinese Street Food Stalls
Tourism Secretary Ram Prasath Manohar stated that the full booking for the first trip was an encouraging start, adding that the focus would be on strengthening onboard hospitality, destination experiences and marketing throughout the season.
Good news for travellers, as the luxurious train is all set to make a comeback.
Cover Image Courtesy:
FAQs
What is the ticket price of Golden Chariot?
The ticket price for the Golden Chariot luxury train ranges from Rs. 2.53 lakh to Rs. 4.87 lakh (excluding 5% GST) per person on a twin-sharing basis, depending on the itinerary.
What is the route of the Golden Chariot train?
The route of the Golden Chariot luxury train depends entirely on the specific itinerary you choose. However, all three primary journeys start and end in Bengaluru (Bangalore), India, departing from the Yesvantpur Railway Station.
What is the only 7 star train?
The only 7-star train in the world is the Seven Stars in Kyushu (Nanatsuboshi in Kyūshū) operated by the Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu) in Japan.
