Upgraded Golden Chariot Luxury Train returns in 2026
22.05.2026
The upgraded Golden Chariot Luxury Train returns for the 2026-27 season with refreshed interiors. Also, it has updated onboard facilities and discounts on selected departures. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The relaunch brings the South India-focused luxury rail service back. In addition, it includes revised cabins, dining, safety systems and guest amenities.
According to ETInfra, IRCTC introduced the upgraded train for the 2026-27 tourist season. IRCTC is the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. It is the tourism arm of Indian Railways. It is also a Navratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways.
The offer covers three itineraries and onboard inclusions. It also lists selected departure dates with promotional discounts.
What the upgraded Golden Chariot Luxury Train offers?
The Golden Chariot is known for journeys through South India’s historic destinations and scenic regions. For 2026-27, it returns with traditional luxury rail travel and modern comfort.
Inside the train, cabins have been refreshed with selected upholstery in softer shades. They also feature lacquered wood finishes, upgraded linens and bath amenities. The revised interiors are intended to create a calmer setting for guests. They are also intended to be more comfortable during the journey.
Meals are served with international-brand crockery and white table linen. Meanwhile, Smart TVs and Wi-Fi streaming provide in-cabin entertainment options. At the same time, service and safety upgrades include discreet CCTV coverage. They also include advanced fire-alarm systems and a trained hospitality team. Selected house pours are also included for guests.
The train can accommodate up to 80 passengers across 40 cabins. The layout includes 13 double-bed cabins and 26 twin-bed cabins. It also includes one cabin designed for differently abled guests.
Cabins, dining and onboard amenities
Onboard dining and social spaces are centred around three named venues. Ruchi and Nalapaka are the train’s two fine-dining restaurants. They serve Indian and international dishes. Meanwhile, Madira operates as the lounge bar with a curated selection of beverages.
Separately, passengers can use the Arogya Spa & Fitness Centre between off-train visits. It combines Ayurvedic therapies with a compact fitness area.
Golden Chariot itineraries and promotional discounts
Key itineraries for the 2026-27 season include:
• Pride of Karnataka (05 nights / 06 days): Bengaluru – Bandipur – Mysuru – Halebidu – Chikkamagaluru – Hampi – Goa – Bengaluru.
• Jewels of South (05 nights / 06 days): Bengaluru – Mysuru – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram – Thanjavur – Chettinad – Cochin – Chertala – Bengaluru.
• Glimpses of Karnataka (03 nights / 04 days): Bengaluru – Bandipur – Mysuru – Hampi – Bengaluru.
IRCTC has also listed promotional offers for selected departures. These include a 20% discount on the published tariff. In addition, there is a 5% Early-Bird discount. It applies to payments made on or before 30 June 2026. The Early-Bird discount is stackable.
The package covers all onboard meals and selected house pours. Also, it covers guided sightseeing and monument entry fees. Off-train meals are covered according to the itinerary.
Selected departure dates under the offer are listed below.
• 24 October 2026 – Pride of Karnataka.
• 31 October 2026 – Glimpses of Karnataka.
• 19 December 2026 – Glimpses of Karnataka.
• 26 December 2026 – Pride of Karnataka.
• 02 January 2027 – Pride of Karnataka.
• 30 January 2027 – Pride of Karnataka.
• 06 February 2027 – Glimpses of Karnataka.
• 20 February 2027 – Jewels of South.
• 27 February 2027 – Pride of Karnataka.
• 13 March 2027 – Pride of Karnataka.
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