Karnataka government plans discounted fares for Golden Chariot tourist train during off-season

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Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday flagged off the 2026–27 season of the State’s flagship luxury tourist train, the Golden Chariot, and said that the government is planning to offer discounted fares during the off-season to make the experience more accessible to tourists from Karnataka.

Speaking after flagging off the train at Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna railway station in Bengaluru, Mr. Shivakumar said that luxury train travel should not remain exclusive to wealthy tourists and that people from Karnataka should also have an opportunity to explore the State’s historical, cultural and natural attractions.

“Since the Golden Chariot is a luxury train, the cost of travel is somewhat high. However, tourists from Karnataka should not be deprived of this experience,” he said, adding that discussions had been held with Indian Railways officials on the proposal.

According to the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC), the five-night, six-day Pride of Karnataka itinerary covers Mysuru, Bandipur forest, Halebidu, Chikkamagaluru, Hampi and Goa before returning to Bengaluru on the sixth day. Passengers visit historical monuments and other attractions during the day and travel overnight to their next destination.

The Pride of Karnataka and Jewels of South itineraries are priced at ₹4,87,500 per person, while Glimpses of Karnataka costs ₹3,31,500.

Mr. Shivakumar described the train as a valuable asset to the State’s tourism sector, noting that it had been relaunched in 2024 after remaining out of operation for a few years.

“Having not been utilised effectively in the past, it is now being revived and routed through areas that will attract tourists,” he said, adding that the initiative could boost tourism, generate employment and support local economies.

On expanding the train’s routes, he said that officials from Karnataka and Indian Railways would discuss suitable options while ensuring that regular train services were not disrupted.

Meanwhile, responding to reports of Karnataka pilgrims stranded in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Mr. Shivakumar said he had written to the Union government and was in touch with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. A State government helpline has also been announced to assist affected tourists and their families.