IT promises to open up many worlds in one voyage. True to its billing, the newly launched Golden Chariot, the luxury train, has started moving across Karnataka to introduce its passengers to the history of the State over a seven-day-seven night journey.
The train, with royal purple interiors, offers a window to the States heritage as well as to aspects of its modern face by taking tourists to places of importance, including Hampi and Pattadakal, two of the 26 world heritage sites recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in India. The Golden Chariot is the third luxury train in India after Rajasthans Palace on Wheels and Maharashtras Deccan Odyssey.
The train is described by tourism officials as a combination of international class and ethnic flavour. It takes tourists on a journey into 1,600 years of Karnatakas history, culture and tradition.
Commencing its journey from Yeshwanthpura railway station, the Golden Chariot takes tourists to Srirangapatna, the capital of Tipu Sultan; Mysore, the city of palaces; Kabini, rich in wildlife; Belur and Halebid, famed for Hoysala temple architecture; Shravanabelagola, the site of the 58-foot (17.4-metre) monolithic statue of Bahubali; Hampi, the ruins of the Vijayanagar empire; Badami, famous for its cave temple; Aihole, known to be the cradle of Indian temple architecture; and Pattadakal, the famous temple town, before coming to a halt in Goa.
The coaches have been named Kadamba, Hoysala, Rashtrakuta, Ganga, Chalukya, Bahamani, Adil Shahi, Sangama, Shatavahana, Yadukula and Vijayanagar, representing the dynasties that ruled the region.
The interiors have been inspired by the architecture of Mysore, Hampi, Belur and Halebid. The bedspreads used are hand-woven by weavers who have carried the tradition down the ages.
The cosy cabins have neatly laid carpets, and photographs, handicrafts and paintings representing the State adorn the cabin walls.
The 11 passenger coaches of the train have 26 twin-bed cabins and 17 double-bed cabins. Nala and Ruchi are the trains two restaurants, which invite gastronomists to sample the culinary delights available. The trains ayurveda centre, spa and gymnasium are added features. In the future, a 30-seat conference coach will also be added to the train, providing corporate executives an opportunity to combine business and pleasure.
The Golden Chariot, which is vying with the Palace on Wheels and the Deccan Odyssey for a share in this premium travel segment, has on-board state-of-the-art technology, including Wi-Fi connectivity and satellite antennae, which are not available on other luxury trains.
Sharath S. Srivatsa
