Golden Chariot luxury train returns for the 2026-27 travel season: Check routes, fares and upgraded features

India’s iconic luxury tourist train, Golden Chariot, is set to return for the 2026–27 travel season with upgraded interiors, enhanced onboard experiences and new promotional offers for travellers exploring South India in style.

In a recent announcement, The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC) which operates the train, said the revamped Golden Chariot will offer a blend of royal-inspired hospitality and modern amenities.

Along with it, the train will continue to showcase the cultural heritage, architecture and scenic landscapes of South India.

What is the Golden Chariot luxury train?

Launched in 2008, the Golden Chariot is designed as a luxury rail journey through South India, combining heritage tourism with premium hospitality.

Inspired by the opulent lifestyle of Indian royalty, the train features palace-style interiors, curated experiences and personalised service aimed at delivering a high-end travel experience just like Rajasthan's Palace of Wheels.

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The train connects several historically and culturally significant destinations across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Goa.

Its itineraries have been curated to highlight South India’s temples, architecture, beaches, wildlife reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. All while tracing the legacy of powerful dynasties that shaped the region over centuries.

Reflecting this heritage theme, the train’s guest coaches are named after historic South Indian dynasties.

Recognising its nuanced assimilation of history and luxury, Golden Chariot train was named “Asia’s Leading Luxury Train” at the World Travel Awards in 2013.

What’s new onboard the upgraded Golden Chariot?

The upgraded train now comes with redesigned interiors and enhanced passenger amenities. Cabins have been refurbished with plush furnishings, smart televisions and Wi-Fi-enabled entertainment systems to provide a more contemporary luxury experience.

Safety features have also been strengthened with CCTV surveillance systems and advanced fire alarm technology installed across the train.

The Golden Chariot can accommodate up to 80 guests across 40 cabins, including double-bed cabins, twin-bed cabins and a specially designed cabin for differently abled passengers.

The accommodation includes 13 double-bed cabins, 30 twin-bed cabins and one accessible cabin. Each guest carriage houses four cabins in a mix of twin and double-bed formats.

Dining, spa and luxury experiences onboard

The train houses two onboard restaurants, Ruchi and Nalapaka, which serve a mix of Indian and international cuisine.

Madira, the onboard bar, offers a selection of wines, beers and spirits for guests during the journey.

Passengers can also access Arogya, the spa and fitness centre onboard, which combines traditional Ayurvedic therapies with modern fitness equipment.

Golden Chariot routes and itineraries for 2026–27

As per the official website, all journeys begin and end in Bengaluru but the routes vary depending on the selected itinerary. The routes primarily operate between October to March.

Pride of Karnataka (5 Nights / 6 Days)

Route: Bengaluru – Bandipur – Mysuru – Halebidu – Chikkamagaluru – Hampi – Pattadakal and Aihole – Goa – Bengaluru

This itinerary covers wildlife destinations, heritage towns, temple architecture and Goa’s coastal landscapes.

Jewels of South (5 Nights / 6 Days)

Route: Bengaluru – Mysuru – Hampi – Mahabalipuram – Thanjavur and Chettinad – Cochin – Kumarakom – Bengaluru

The journey focuses on South India’s cultural landmarks, temple towns, backwaters and historic sites.

Glimpses of Karnataka (3 Nights / 4 Days)

Route: Bengaluru – Bandipur – Mysuru – Hampi – Bengaluru

This shorter itinerary offers a compact luxury journey through some of Karnataka’s key heritage and wildlife destinations.

Golden Chariot fares and promotional offers

According to the official website, fares vary depending on the itinerary and cabin category selected.

A Deluxe Cabin ticket for the ‘Pride of Karnataka with Goa’ and ‘Jewels of South’ itineraries, both spanning 5 nights and 6 days, is priced at Rs 4,20,680.

Meanwhile, the shorter ‘Glimpses of Karnataka’ itinerary, which runs for 3 nights and 4 days, is priced at Rs 2,80,450.

IRCTC has also announced special promotional discounts for the season. Travellers booking directly, online or through authorised agents can avail a 20 per cent discount on bookings.

In addition, an Early Bird offer provides an extra 5 per cent discount on bookings made before June 30, 2026. The offer is applicable to travellers of all nationalities.

Tickets for the luxury train can be booked online seamlessly.