Welcome Aboard
The Golden Chariot
Launched in 2008 by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporations, in collaboration with the Indian Railways, the regal Golden Chariot provides uber-luxury travel in the southern state of Karnataka and its neighbour sister states and Union Territories (Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry).
Guess where the name comes from?
The iconic Stone Chariot in the Vitthala Temple at the UNESCO World Heritage Temple Town of HAMPI.
This Karnataka and Southern Indian answer to the Golden Chariot and Deccan Odyssey comprises 19 royal coaches equipped with high-end luxuries and amenities. Its design is inspired by the rich Dravidian archeological and artistic traditions of Hampi and Vijayanagara Empire.
It usually runs between the peak tourist season in the Indian South (from October to March) and provides 3 different itineraries to travellers. These itineraries are all-inclusive and cover accommodation, sightseeing, dining and excursions.
Rediscover the lost glory and mystery of the Dravidian world of Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry (Pondicherry) aboard the Golden Chariot.
Covered Destinations
As of 2023, the Golden Chariot offers 3 different journeys across the Southern Indian region covering famous destinations like
Each itinerary is known by a different name and offers you a unique set of experiences.
1. PRIDE OF KARNATAKA (6 Nights/ 7 Days)
• Your journey begins in the capital city of Karnataka, Bengaluru, from where you proceed to the “City of Palaces” Mysore.
• After escapades in the opulent palaces of Mysore, you proceed to the idyllic hill stations of Chikmagalur to enjoy a serene hill station holiday.
• The next stop is the glorious Temple town of Hampi (one of India’s great archeological wonders). Beach time follows in Badami and Goa.
2. JEWELS OF SOUTH (6 Nights/ 7 Days)
• You begin your journey in Bangalore, followed by a stop in Mysore to enjoy the sights and live like royalty in a Palace Heritage Hotel.
• The next stop is Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu) famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Shore Temple and other Pallava Empire art and Architecture masterpieces.
• Your next stop in Tamil Nadu is in Thanjavur (site of the Great Living Chola Temples) followed by a beach vacation at the southernmost point of India where the Indian Ocean meets the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
• From Tamil Nadu you proceed to Kochi in Kerala, followed by expeditions in the serene backwaters of Alleppey in Kerala
3. GLIMPSES OF KARNATAKA (3 Nights/ 7 Days)
This shorter itinerary comprises Bangalore (departure point), Mysore, and Hampi.
Luxury Amenities
Restaurant
Deluxe Suite
Dining Car
Bar
Gym
Spa
How To Book On The Golden Chariot With Us
All four itineraries of the Maharajas’ Express are inclusive of accommodation, dining, sightseeing and entry tickets to cultural attractions. So, you do not have to worry about anything when you are finally onboard.
We collaborated with the management of the Maharajas Express to get you the best deals and discounts.
At LIT, we collaborate with the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporations to make sure that you get the best deals and discounts on your journey aboard this magnificent luxury service.
Prices for each of the 3 itineraries vary.
PRIDE OF KARNATAKA: Prices for a Deluxe Cabin on SINGLE OCCUPANCY start at $4,750 for 1 person with an additional $3,560 for DOUBLE OCCUPANCY (2 persons).
JEWELS OF SOUTH: Prices for a Deluxe Cabin on SINGLE OCCUPANCY start at $4,740 for 1 person with an additional $3,560 for DOUBLE OCCUPANCY (2 persons).
GLIMPSE OF KARNATAKA (3 Nights): Prices for a Deluxe Cabin on SINGLE OCCUPANCY start at $3,160 for 1 person with an additional $2,370 for DOUBLE OCCUPANCY (2 persons).
Please note that all prices are subject to change.