Golden Chariot : India's Luxury Train
Group | Individual | Regular | Heritage Tour
8 Days / 7 Nights
USD$ 5530 Onwards
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The Golden Chariot — India's luxury train
Circuit 1
● Bangalore ● Kabini/Bandipur ● Mysore ● Hassan ● Hospet/Hampi ● Badami
● Goa ● Bangalore
Circuit 2
● Bangalore ● Chennai ● Mamallapuram ● Puducherry ● Tanjavur ● Madurai
● Kanyakumari ● Thiruvananthapuram ● Kovalam ● Alleppey ● Kochi
Information
Dates & Prices
Hotels
Destination Info
More Info
The train is named after the famous Stone Chariot in Hampi, a world heritage site, in Southern India will travel through timeless Historical Heritage Sites, Resplendent Palaces, Wildlife and Golden Beaches. Welcome aboard a fascinating journey through the many worlds of Karnataka. Embark on a luxurious voyage of discovery through the Cradle of Stone Architecture.
The seat of many dynasties past, Karnataka has had more than a few centuries to perfect the art of luxury. Chikmagalur was a princess' dowry, Kemmannagudi was the favourite holiday spot of a king, Bandipur used to be the hunting ground of yet another, Hampi used to be the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, also known as the Golden Empire, and thus goes on the list. And for a privileged few, Karnataka opens up experiences like it once did for royalty. Niches of absolute luxury, tailor-made to give you an exclusive experience of what the state has to offer. These experiences go way beyond the realm of luxury hotels and poolsides.
South India’s First and Only Luxury Train
The only luxury train in South India, "Golden Chariot" offers an insight into treasure trove of archaeological wealth, abundant bounty for wildlife seekers and a kaleidoscope of culture for it's esteemed guests. It offers a mix of heritage, culture, eco-tourism and beach life. Recline & relax as the magnificent scenery unfolds outside your window with luxury on the inside, thus far reserved for royalty.
The Golden Chariot Train is now operating on two different 7 Nights circuits of South India, both tours departing from Bangalore on alternate Mondays viz. Pride of South & Southern Splendour.
Highlights of "Pride of South" train tour circuit includes visit to Mysore Palace , Kabini Tiger Reserve , UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi Palace ruins,Golden Beaches of Goa & UNESCO World Heritage Site of Badami Cave sculptures.
Highlights of "Southern Splendour" train tour circuit includes visit to former French Colony of Pondicherry, Beaches & Backwaters of Kerala,besides UNESCO World Heritage site of Brihadeeswara Temple
The on board facilities
Designed & operated on the lines of World famous Palace On wheels Train Tour; The Golden Chariot(Golden Chariot Train)/Southern Splendour Train offers Eleven luxuriously furnished Air-Conditioned Saloons of 4 sleeping chambers(Cabins) each,Two Dining Cars,One Bar Lounge ,Business Centre, Mini Gymnasium & Ayurvedic Spa.
» Passenger Saloons :
The Interiors of the Saloon are inspired by the intricately carved Hosalya temple architecture dating back to 12th century.
Total 44 Air Conditioned cabins in 11 inter-connected saloons are combination of 26 Twin Bedded Cabins,17 Double bedded Cabins & One Cabin for Physically Challenged.
Each Cabin offers small wardrobe,vanity desk,LCD Televisions,Electric sockets with 220 AC for recharging batteries; & private washroom having 5 Star Hotel accessories
» Restaurant Coaches :
The interiors of the Two Dining Cars (called Nala & Ruchi) are inspired by the royal aesthetics of Hampi & Halebid temples.
There is a wide spread of vegetarian and non-vegetarian culinary delights available.
» Lounge Bar Coach :
The plush & royal interiors of the Cigar Bar Lounge (called Madira) are modelled after the early 20th century Mysore Palace.
» Spa & Gym Facility :
There are Two massage rooms ,for the traditional & age old Ayurvedic massages,said to offer definite cures for modern day fatigue & stress.
Also available is a fully equipped Gymnasium.
Reservation Policy
In case of FITs:
20% of the tariff has to be paid at the time of booking.
The rest 80% of the tariff will be paid 30 days before the start of the tour.
In case of Group:
50% of the tariff has to be paid at the time of booking.
The rest 50% of the tariff will be paid 45 days before the start of the tour.
Cancellation Policy
In case of FITs:
5% of the ticket value if cancellation is made not before 60 days before departure.
20% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 30-59 days before departure.
50% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 15-29 days before departure.
100% of the ticket value if the cancellation is made 14 days before departure.
In case of Group:
10% of the ticket value if cancellation is made not before 60 days before departure.
25% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 30-59 days before departure.
75% of the ticket value if cancellation is made between 15-29 days before departure.
100% of the ticket value if the cancellation is made 14 days before departure.
No show/ En route termination of tour/Amendment:
No Show: In case of No Show / Non-arrival of the guest, no refund or adjustment in future travel will be made and the whole amount will be treated as forfeited.
En route termination of tour: In case of termination of tour by the guest, for any reasons, no refund or adjustment for future travel will be made. The rest of the unused amount shall be treated as forfeited.
Amendment: Any amendment is possible only under the circumstances like Natural Disaster / Natural Calamity or Serious Health Problems (this needs to be supported by doctor’s certificate) and is subject to availability. No refunds are possible and every case will be decided on its own merits and case to case basis.
DEPARTURE DATES
2017 April
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
2016 October
4, 11, 18, 25
2016 May
7, 14, 21,
2016 November
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
2016 June
5, 12, 19,
2016 December
6, 13, 20, 27
2016 July
2, 16, 23, 30
2017 January
4, 11, 18, 25
6, 13, 27
2017 February
1, 8, 15, 22, 29
2016 August
6, 13, 20, 27
2017 March
5, 12, 19, 26*
2016 September
*Dates in bold indicate important festival period and Dates in Red are for Charters/Group Bookings Only
TOUR COST per Cabin for 7 Nights Pride of South Golden Chariot Train Tour-Per Cabin
No of Persons
Per Cabin
INR Tariff-
Only for Indian National
(Taxes Extra)
US$ Tariff-
For Foreign Passport Holders (Taxes Extra)
Occupancy
Type
One
` 1,82,,000/-
US$ 5530
Single
Two
` 3,08,000/-
US$ 8260
Double
Three
` 3,36,,000/-
US$10,500
Triple
TOUR COST Pride of South Golden Chariot Train Tour-Per person Per Night
No of Persons
Per Cabin
INR Tariff-
Only for Indian National
(Taxes Extra)
US$ Tariff-
For Foreign Passport Holders (Taxes Extra)
Occupancy
Type
One
` 26,000/-
US$ 790
Single
Two
` 44,000/-
US$ 1,180
Double
Three
` 48,000/-
US$1,500
Triple
Note:
Add Govt. Taxes Extra ,as applicable on date of journey
10% Surcharge shall be levied on departures during Christmas / New Year
Children between 5 and 12 years charged 50% of adult rate (Half fare)
Children below 5 years are complimentary(but no bed)
Option to book for MINIMUM Three nights part journey & pay accordingly
Train tour will operate ,subject to MINIMUM 20 Passengers OR
advance received will be refunded (with no further liability)
Validity: From April 1, 2016 to March 30, 2017 |
* Indicative price subject to change at the time of issue.
TOUR COST INCLUDES
● Accommodation On-board stay & travel in private A/C Deluxe Cabins with attached bathrooms
● Accommodation for Tuesday Night in Kabini Forest Lodge room.
● Daily Three Meals.
● Bed Tea
● Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle with driver for transfers,
● Group excursion & sightseeing.
● The entrance to places of tourist interest mentioned in the itinerary. (Single visit per site).
● Services of English speaking local guide.
● Entrance fees at monuments / parks / palaces and cultural programs.
● Bottled drinking water
● Boat ride & Jeep safari in Kabini forest.
● Cultural program in Bangalore & Mysore
TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
● International air fare.
● Visa fee and service charges if service provided for issuance of visas.
● Expense of personal nature like spa, business car facilities, drinks, and also food drinks not forming part of the group menus, room service or mini-bar consumption, laundry, medical expenses, telephone and internet services, camera or video camera fee at monuments, tips and other items.
● Personal Insurance is not included in the cost, hence any cost involving health which may include
any type of medical expense or medication and any cost derived due to illness would be charged extra. It is advised to take a personal travel insurance
● Cost of Optional or add-on tours unless mentioned otherwise.
● Airport taxes and airport departure tax normally included in the international tickets.
● Meals other than those mentioned as included in the itinerary.
● Services not mentioned in the 'The price includes' box.
VISA
● Travellers should carry a valid tourist visa for
● India
IMPORTANT NOTES
● The price provided is based on the prices and taxes existing at the time of calculation. Any increase in the airfare, in routing due to withdrawal of existing flights, taxes change if any would be advised at the time of booking.
● Any change in rate of exchange leading to an increase in the cost of the tour, which may come into effect prior to departure would be informed at the time of booking.
● Minimum reporting time in India for International flights in India is three hours and for internal flights is hour and a half.
● Child without bed - Is an individual under 12 years of age, sharing the room with 2 Full Paying adults and without a bed.
● Triple rooms do not exist in India, most hotels use roll away beds which is placed once you arrive at the hotel. The room size is the same as a Double Room.
● Once an air ticket is issued, any change of date or cancellation would attract a penalty charge levied by the airlines. Your sales officer will advise you the
amount at the time of making the date change.
● The tour will be operated, subject to a minimum of 06 full paying adult passengers. In the event that the group size is less than 06 adult passengers, you will be given an option of travelling as an individual tourist with private services. Additional supplement might apply. The Tour will be conducted on a seat-in-coach basis for group strength of 20- 25 persons, with the assistance of a local representative.
● Travel Insurance for the duration of the tour is not included in the tour price. However, any passengers who wish to take an insurance cover can request for it at an additional charges.
● The right to vary, amend or withdraw any particular itinerary, departure or excursion rests entirely with the company. Due to demand in particular airline in/ out points may change. Service, will however remain unchanged. Hotels / Flights / Airlines / Itinerary / Route subject to change without notice
HOTEL SELECTION
City
Luxury
Nights
Mysore
01
River Kabini Lodge
While on journey on board
06
The Golden Chariot (Train)
LUXURY HOTELS [+]
River Kabini Forest Lodge, MysoreNamed after the River Kabini, the River Kabini Lodge beckons with the promise of elephants, gaur, deer and a rumour of tiger. Located on the southern fringes of the Nagarahole National Park, this former hunting lodge of the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore was rated as One of the Top 5 Wildlife Resorts in the World by the British Tatler’s Travel Guide. A sprawling colonial estate in the heart of elephant country, the River Kabini Lodge echoes with the call of the wild.. ...read more<>
Bengaluru
Capital of Karnataka State, Bengaluru, also known as the 'City of Gardens', is one of the most attractive cities in India with its beautiful parks, avenues and impressive buildings. The once-sedate cantonment settlement of the British has now spread way beyond the mud fort and the four towers constructed by Kempe Gowda in 1537. With its booming economy and racy lifestyle, the capital of Karnataka has metamorphosed from a sleepy Garden City into one of India's fastest growing, accommodating, technophiliac, and cosmopolitan cities.
Bangalore is a city of contrasts, going by several other aliases: India's Silicon Valley, Pub City, Shopper's Paradise, Garden City, Air-conditioned City, Gourmet's Delight, Pub Hopper's Paradise and Shopper's Hot Spot. Surrounded by weekend getaways, Bangalore makes an ideal hub for visitors who want to travel to the many hill stations and coastal towns of South India.
Bandipur National Park
Once the personal hunting grounds of Mysore maharajas, the Bandipur National Park in the state of Karnataka is a Project Tiger Reserve -- India's homegrown initiative to protect the tigers’ dwindling numbers. Nesting in the foothills of the Nilgiris, today Bandipur covers 874 sq. km, and is home Asian Elephant, leopards, dholes (wild dogs), gaur, chital, sambar and sloth bears.
You can also spot Giant Squirrel, Nocturnal Porcupine and Blacknaped Hare in this wildlife reserve. the Bandipur National Park is also noted for a number of bird species including Peafowl, Partridge, Hornbill, Quail and Ibis . While visiting the Bandipur National Park, you can also travel to Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary.
Mysore
Mysore was the political capital of the Wodeyar dynasty which ruled Karnataka for some 150 years till the independence of the country from the British. The kings, great patrons of art and culture, developed Mysore as an important centre of religion, education and culture. It was the Wodeyars who instituted the tradition of the grand celebration of Dasara festival, the 10-day festivities that celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2010. Today, Mysore is a city of palaces, gardens, shady avenues and sacred temples and retains some of the charm of the old world while stepping into modernity with enthusiasm.
Hassan
A relaxed and laid-back town, Hassan is the headquarters of the same-named district and is one of the all-time favourite spots in the state of Karnataka. Named after the town's presiding Goddess "Hasanamba", Karnataka's fourth largest city is mainly a farmer and trader town. Hassan is a pleasant place to explore for a day or two on foot and forms a perfect base for exploring the world-famous site of Halebid (33km), Belur (38km) and Sravanabelagola (48km).
Hassan is best known for its Hasanamba Temple, but there's also Siddeshvara Temple, built by Venkatappa Nayaka, one of the Nayaka rulers.
Hampi
Vijayanagara, the “City of Victory,” was one of the greatest of all medieval Hindu capitals of South India. Its impressive ruins in central Karnataka are known best as Hampi, after the name of a still populated local village. Traditionally known as Pampakshetra of Kishkindha, Hampi is situated on the southern bank of the river Tungabhadra.
It was the seat of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1565) which extended from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal and from the Deccan Plateau to the tip of the Indian Peninsula. Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Badami
Known as Vatapi in ancient India, Badami was once the capital of the Chalukyas who rose to power in much of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the middle of the 6th century AD. Its claim to world fame lies in the magnificent rock-cut cave temples built by the Early Chalukyas who is great temple builders.
The Badami temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras, displaying the secular nature of the Chalukyas of Vatapi or modern Badami. These temples are known for profusion of symbolic and mystical carvings of the highest order.
Goa
Goa, situated on the west coast of India, is one of the most delightful states in India. Formerly a Portuguese colony, it is endowed with variety of attractions, like palm pronged beaches, miles of golden sands, lush green country-side, an incredible mosaic of cultural heritage, magnificent churches, temples, forts and monuments and a unique cultural synthesis of the east and west.
With its tropical climate, Goa is a tourist’s destination for all seasons. Goa’s cities are impressively individual. The capital, Panjim (Panaji), for many, hast the edge over many cities in the country.Replete with colonial architecture, the city is known for its vibrancy that attains its pinnacle in the annual Goa Carnival festival.
IMPORTANT NOTES
HOTELS ...
MEALS ...
TRAVEL BY ROAD ...
AIRFARES AND TRAVELLING BY AIR ...
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE ...
First Class 40 Kgs.
Executive Class 35 Kgs.
Economy Class (Y,B,M & H) 20 Kgs.
Economy Class (K,Q,V,W,G,L,U,S,T,X, N & E) 15 Kgs.
Infants not entitled to a seat (All economy classes) Nil
INSURANCE ...
FESTIVALS ...
Local festivals may fall on the date of travel and it is possible that the visits to places of interest are modified by the local government or authorities for which we cannot be held responsible. The program would be amended accordingly so that none of the visits included are missed on an alternative provided.
ACTIVITIES ...
(Wildlife Safari/ Boat ride/ Desert & Rural Safari/ Bicycle & Rickshaw Ride/ Animal Rides)
Boats: To take part in any boat ride, you need to be of average mobility to be able to climb on and off all these boats unaided; able to disembark onto makeshift docks without handrails, or onto muddy and slippery riverbanks.
Canters: These are large, open trucks with wooden bench seats in the back and used for safaris on sharing basis in the national parks.
Elephant ride at Amber Fort (Jaipur): Elephant rides can either be taken to the fort or from the fort based on the directives received from the Rajasthan State Tourism Board and are booked on first come-first serve basis. As such for Elephant ride at Amber Fort, an early departure from the hotel is recommended. Also note Elephant ride to or from the Fort is subject to same being operational and may be stopped due to various reasons by Rajasthan State Tourism Board
Important: At all times, our Tour Managers, Local Guides, and Representatives will assist and brief guests about these activities but cannot guarantee the uninterrupted services during their stay in Indian Subcontinent. All guests must bear full responsibilities for such activities releasing Indior Tours, its associates, its directors, its agents of any claim. It would be in your interest to buy a suitable insurance to cover all risks associated with such travel.
SUGGESTED CLOTHING ...
POPULATION ...
In order not to encourage begging, we suggest that you should not distribute anything during your visits (candy, money, toys, pens etc.).Should you wish to made donations in cash or kind, please consult your guide who would provide you with the best advice.
We suggest that you spend your money to buy locally produced things made my local craftsmen and take them to the country of your origin and contribute to the local economy thus providing work to those in need.
PRICE AND OTHER CONDITION OF SALE ...
RECOMMENDED TIPS ...
(Indicative only because it is at the discretion of each / not to spare but only tickets ) :
CANCELLATION FEES ...