Life is like a journey, taken on a train. With a pair of travelers at each windowpane.
I may sit beside you all the journey through, Or I may sit elsewhere, never knowing you.
But if fate should make me sit by your side, Let’s be pleasant travelers; it’s so short a ride.
– Anonymous
Train journeys, more often than not, turn out to be some of the most memorable experiences in one’s life. As a child, the excitement of embarking on a train journey excited me like none other. With never a dull moment, train travel especially in India can be quite an eventful affair.
And if the journey happens to be on one of the best luxury trains ever, it is sure to be an experience you will not forget in a hurry. The Golden Chariot run by the Karnataka State Tourism Department is one such train that takes you on a journey to some of the best places in Karnataka in true style. Here is a sneak preview of the top 5 reasons as to why a trip on the Golden Chariot will be a memory you will cherish forever.
Epitome of grandeur and luxury
With interiors, furniture and rooms that are akin to a plush five star hotel, the Golden chariot resembles a resort on wheels. With a total of 18 coaches, 11 of which are reserved for guests. the train can accommodate up to 110 guests. The rooms are impeccably maintained and very comfortable. Here are some shots of the interiors of the train.
Delectable food
With two restaurants and a bar, the Golden Chariot serves some of the most exotic food that is fresh, healthy and customized according to the preferences of the guests. The five course meals for lunch and dinner consists of North Indian, South Indian and continental options that are truly lip smacking and balanced in terms of flavors and taste. I had a completely different experience in each meal I had during my 7 day journey aboard the train.
Top notch facilities and amenities
The train has a full fledged spa and gym on board and offers wifi as well. The rooms have a TV and movies are played on request.
World class Hospitality
Run by the Mapple group of hotels, the service offered aboard the train is superlative. The staff are not only courteous, friendly but offer personalized service based on the needs of the guest. With a personal attendant for each coach, they make sure your are treated like royalty during your stay.
Best of Karnataka’s sights
The route covers some of the most exquisite and diverse sights of the state. Starting from the world renowned heritage city of Mysore to the historical Srirangapatna, the journey takes you to the exotic wildlife of Kabini. The sculptural marvels of Sharavanabelagola, Hassan and Belur are covered before witnessing the world’s largest open air museum of Hampi. A UNESCO world heritage site, Hampi is a truly a travellers delight. This is followed by another UNESCO world heritage site, Pattadakal. The last stop in Karnataka is the magnificent cave temples of Badami. The splendid journey covers some of the beaches and churches of old Goa before returning to Bangalore.
This post was made possible by Karnataka Tourism; opinions are as always my own.
Stay tuned for more detailed posts on this splendid train and the wonderful journey it offers.
