Aboard Golden Chariot Train for Temple Tour of South India

The southern region of India is an incredible land replete with rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels. The temples of this region exemplify spectacular blend of sheer spirituality and brilliant artistry. Golden Chariot, south India’s first and only luxury train, offers glimpse of various temples cities and World Heritage Sites that speak volumes about its glorious history and rich culture.

The ancient Hindu culture has been conserved and fostered in these temples since medieval times by different dynasties of the south. Various Dravidian temples that are sprinkled all across this region were commissioned by erstwhile rulers in veneration of their holy deity. During the course of its two weeklong itineraries namely Pride of the South and Splendor of the South, the luxury train traverses the course of enchanting destinations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala which bears testimony to the Dravidian art and architecture.

The Pride of the South journey aboard Golden Chariot train trail the course of Karnataka for 8 days and 7 nights and covers various culturally significant destinations which include Belur, Halebid, Hampi and Badami. Whereas Belur and Halebid are known for its magnificently designed Hoyasala temples depicting carved images of Hindu deities, sages, Hoyasala kings on the outer walls, Hampi is known for its much admired Dravidian temples which has been emblazoned as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Badami Caves, renowned for its rock-cut cave temples is also a part of Pride of the South journey. The architecture of these caves represents three different religious sects- Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism- and holds exquisite carvings, mural paintings and sculptures of various deities. Just 22 kilometers away from Badami lays the World Heritage Site of Pattadakkal known for displaying a seamless fusion of Dravidian and Nagara style of architecture.

But the temples of Karnataka are just speck in the vast of repertoire of Indian heritage with many destinations in this region which are also capable of gratifying the penchant for temple tour. The Splendor of the South journey aboard Golden Chariot offers excursion to famous temple cities of Mamallapuram, Kanchipuram, Tiruchirapalli, Thanjavur and Madurai, each of which showcases that the erstwhile rulers of south were not just religious but also the great patron of Dravidian art and architecture.

Not to forget that Golden Chariot is a luxury train and offers every indulgence required in a luxury rail journey. The cabins of this train are patterned to reflect the architectural traditions of Hoyasala and Mysore apparent in its exquisitely carved ceilings, wall panels and furniture. Besides timeless décor, the train comes equipped with various modern amenities required to maintain the contemporary panache. To add to the charm of royal stay, the train also comes equipped with two plush restaurants, lounge bar and business center and even a spa facility something previously unheard in a luxury train.

To say that Golden chariot offers peak into the religious and cultural domain of southern region of India will be an overstatement. The two weeklong journeys of this luxury train trails the route of various temples cities of south India and even the name of the train is inspired from the Stone Chariot in Hampi. Plush accommodation, gourmet dining, guided sightseeing and impeccable hospitality ensures a lifetime experience on board.