The Golden Chariot is back for its 2026-27 season with a refreshed look and updated amenities, offering travellers a more polished way to explore South India’s heritage landscapes. IRCTC has introduced a 20% promotional discount on select departures, with an additional 5% early-bird reduction for advance payments made by June 30, 2026.
The upgrades span cabins fitted with new upholstery, lacquered wood surfaces, plush linens, and premium bath amenities. Smart TVs and Wi-Fi have been added without disrupting the train’s unhurried character, while safety systems and hospitality standards have also been modernised. Two fine-dining restaurants, Ruchi and Nalapaka, serve Indian and international cuisine, with the Madira lounge bar providing a quieter space for drinks and conversation. The Arogya Spa & Fitness Centre rounds out the onboard experience with Ayurvedic therapies and a compact gym.
Three itineraries anchor the season. The flagship Pride of Karnataka covers a five-night arc from Bengaluru through Bandipur, Mysuru, Halebidu, Chikkamagaluru, Hampi, and Goa. Jewels of South traces a cultural trail through Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, Chettinad, and Cochin. Glimpses of Karnataka offers a shorter three-night journey through Bandipur, Mysuru, and Hampi.
All packages include onboard meals, selected beverages, guided sightseeing, and monument entry fees.
