Golden Chariot Relaunch – The Hindu

Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh unfurling the Golden Chariot Flag by Railways at Yashwantapura Railway Station. | Photo credit: Handout e-mail

Karnataka’s luxury train, the Golden Rath, was relaunched on Saturday, December 21 at the Yesvantpur railway station. Karnataka Tourism Minister HK Patil flagged off the train.

Originally launched on January 23, 2008 by then-President Pratibha Patil, the Golden Rath was initially successful with luxury journeys in southern India, but operational challenges such as high running costs and less than full patronage have put the train on hiatus mode since 2018.

Under the Bharat Gaurav Train Policy, the operational arrangements between the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) and IRCTC were revised, paving the way for the resumption of the train.

Golden Chariot offers curated tours such as ‘Jewel of the South,’ ‘Pride of Karnataka,’ ‘A Glimpse of Karnataka,’ and voyages chartered under ‘Dwelling of the South.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Patil expressed pride in the revival of the train. “The Golden Rath carries the essence of Karnataka’s culture, history and nature, offering an experience of exclusive luxury,” he remarked.

The train has 44 cabins with en-suite bathrooms, two gourmet restaurants, a lounge bar, a spa, and a fitness center.

An IRCTC representative emphasized on the mix of opulence and heritage, aiming to attract domestic and international travelers.

Jewel of the South It will start its journey from December 21 to 26 and will cost ₹ 4.07 lakh per ticket. Pride of Karnataka It will be held from February 1 to 6 and costs ₹2. 71 lakhs. Dwelling of the South The chartered trip will be from December 29 to February 12.