The Golden Chariot Train is one of India's premium luxury trains. It offers comfort, fine dining, and curated tours through the south of India. This experience comes at a premium price, but it also includes a lot in return. If you're planning to travel on this train, knowing the cost breakdown will help you prepare.

Let’s explore the details you need to know before booking.

What Is the Golden Chariot Train?

The Golden Chariot is a luxury train service run by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). It operates in South India and features palace-like interiors, private cabins, fine restaurants, a spa, and a lounge bar. The train offers scheduled journeys across Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.

Each journey includes sightseeing, guided tours, meals, and onboard service. The aim is to offer a high-end rail experience inspired by royalty.

Golden Chariot Fare Structure

The cost of a trip on the Golden Chariot Train varies depending on your selected itinerary, accommodation type, and nationality.

1. Types of Accommodation

The Golden Chariot has two main types of accommodation:

• Deluxe Cabin
• Suite Cabin

Deluxe Cabins are more common and cost less. Suites are larger, offer more privacy, and are priced higher.

Each cabin includes air-conditioning, a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, and traditional décor.

2. Pricing for Indian Nationals

The prices for Indian citizens are lower compared to foreign nationals. This pricing policy helps promote domestic tourism.

Here’s a quick estimate per person for the Deluxe Cabin (as per recent data):

• Pride of Karnataka (6 nights / 7 days): ₹3,20,130
• Jewels of South (6 nights / 7 days): ₹3,20,130
• Glimpses of Karnataka (3 nights / 4 days): ₹2,14,760

Suite cabins are priced approximately 40–50% higher. For instance, on the Glimpses of Karnataka route, suite fares may cross ₹3,00,000.

These fares include meals, guided tours, entrance fees, and accommodation.

3. Pricing for International Tourists

Foreign nationals pay a higher fare. The Deluxe Cabin price for them typically starts around:

• Pride of Karnataka: $6,200
• Jewels of South: $6,200
• Glimpses of Karnataka: $3,700

Suite fares may go up to $8,000 or more, depending on the route.

Keep in mind that these prices are updated by IRCTC from time to time. It’s best to check their official website or contact an authorized booking partner.

Route-Wise Fare Comparison

The Golden Chariot operates three main journeys. Each has a different route, duration, and sightseeing list.

Pride of Karnataka

This is a 7-day journey covering Bengaluru, Bandipur, Mysore, Halebidu, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole, and Goa. It offers a mix of wildlife, history, and beach destinations.

Fares:

• Indian nationals (Deluxe): ₹3,20,130
• Foreign nationals (Deluxe): $6,200

Jewels of South

This route also spans 6 nights and 7 days. It includes Mysore, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, Chettinad, Cochin, and back to Bengaluru. It’s ideal for travelers interested in heritage, temples, and art.

Fares:

• Indian nationals (Deluxe): ₹3,20,130
• Foreign nationals (Deluxe): $6,200

Glimpses of Karnataka

This shorter journey lasts 4 days. It includes Bengaluru, Bandipur, Mysore, and Hampi.

Fares:

• Indian nationals (Deluxe): ₹2,14,760
• Foreign nationals (Deluxe): $3,700

These prices cover everything from onboard meals to entrance fees at heritage sites.

Seasonal Pricing & Offers

The Golden Chariot Train usually operates from October to March. These months are considered ideal for travel in South India.

Although the base fare remains the same across the season, IRCTC sometimes introduces promotional offers. For example:

• Early bird discounts (5–10% off if booked 6 months in advance)
• Group discounts for families or corporate bookings
• Limited-time offers during festive seasons

It’s good to book early. This not only locks in your travel dates but may also help you save.

What the Fare Includes

The ticket cost may seem high at first glance. But when you understand what’s included, the value becomes clearer.

Here’s what the fare typically covers:

• Onboard accommodation in your selected cabin
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Tea, coffee, and bottled water
• Guided tours and entry tickets to monuments
• AC transport for sightseeing
• Services of a tour manager
• Cultural shows, in some cases
• Taxes and insurance

This means you don’t need to worry about booking hotels, arranging transport, or planning guided tours. Everything is organized for you.

What the Fare Does Not Include

Some things are not included in the basic fare. You may need to pay separately for:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Spa services
• Personal shopping during excursions
• Tips for staff (optional but appreciated)
• Onboard Wi-Fi upgrades (in some cabins)

Knowing these details helps you plan your total budget in advance.

How to Book and Pay

You can book tickets directly through the IRCTC Luxury Trains website or through authorized travel partners. Both online and offline booking options are available.

Payment can be made via credit card, net banking, or international payment gateways. Booking confirmations are usually immediate, depending on availability.

Most journeys require a 25% advance payment. The remaining amount is paid closer to the departure date.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

IRCTC follows a tiered cancellation policy. The refund depends on how early you cancel your booking.

• 60 days or more before departure: 80% refund
• 30–59 days: 50% refund
• Less than 30 days: No refund

In some cases, you may be able to reschedule instead of canceling. Always check the latest terms before booking.

Comparing the Golden Chariot to Other Trains

You might wonder how the Golden Chariot compares to other luxury trains in India.

Palace on Wheels

• Runs in North India
• Slightly higher fares
• More royal-themed décor

Maharaja Express

• Covers multiple routes in North, Central, and West India
• Offers the most expensive tickets among all Indian trains
• Known for ultra-luxury services

Compared to these, the Golden Chariot is more focused on Southern India. It’s slightly more affordable and offers a good balance of comfort and sightseeing.

Planning Your Budget

To plan your total budget, add the following:

• Train fare
• Flights to and from Bengaluru (the departure point)
• Extra costs during excursions
• Visa and travel insurance (for international travelers)
• Optional expenses like spa, drinks, or shopping

Having a rough budget in mind helps you avoid last-minute surprises.

Where to Find Reliable Fare Details

To avoid outdated pricing or scams, always refer to:

• The official IRCTC Luxury Trains website
• Government-affiliated tourism websites
• Trusted travel agencies listed on IRCTC’s site
• Email or phone support from IRCTC customer service

Fare charts, departure calendars, and booking tools are usually available online.