Karnataka’s very own luxury train, the Golden Chariot, takes travellers to iconic destinations across South India. And now, for the first time, the train is set to offer new travel experiences with fresh routes and upgraded services. IRCTC is planning to expand its luxury train services to parts of western India as well. Scroll down for more details.
Karnataka’s Golden Chariot Train To Expand On New Route
As per The New Indian Express, the Golden Chariot is planning a Bengaluru-Mumbai circuit in the next financial year. This route will include the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves near Aurangabad in Maharashtra as well, offering travellers a chance to explore historic rock-cut monuments along with South Indian landmarks.
Karnataka’s Golden Chariot was launched in 2008, however, it was suspended in 2018. It was relaunched in 2024 and has since attracted both domestic and international tourists to popular destinations such as Mysuru, Hampi, Thanjavur, Chettinadu, and other cultural hotspots. With the new routes, IRCTC is combining well-known attractions with new experiences. According to The News Indian Express, there are also talks of adding Goa to the five-night, six-day Mumbai package.
IRCTC’s Expansion Plans For This Train
Travel experts have previously suggested adding more routes for the Golden Chariot, including shorter trips to lesser-known destinations. While planning these new circuits, IRCTC is looking at logistics like train routes, bus links, and coordination with tour operators and government agencies. It’s also exploring partnerships with hotels and travel companies to offer a smoother travel experience.
Recently, the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) and IRCTC met to discuss ways to improve operations and make the train profitable. KSTDC Managing Director Prashanth Kumar Mishra said that about ₹1.20 crore has been spent to upgrade the train’s interiors and technology.
While talking to The News Indian Express, Promila Gupta, Group General Manager at IRCTC, said the train will continue operating according to bookings, even if some trips incur losses. For 2025–26, seven trips are planned, including a January 10, 2026, journey for Southeast Asian delegates. It will cover Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, Chettinadu, Kochi, and Kumarakom. Last year, three trips were conducted, and 13 are planned for the next year.
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Cover Image Courtesy: website/ The Golden Chariot