Golden Chariot, the luxurious train to launch in November

Bangalore, Aug 27 (UNI) 'Golden Chariot', the much awaited luxurious tourist train intended to showcase the grandeur of Karnataka besides Goa, will roll out in November this year.

Announcing this to newsmen here State Tourism and Information Secretary I M V ittalamurthy said the Southern version of the ''Palace on Wheels'' will chug through the lush green landscape with an astonishing abundance of wildlife, while connecting magnificent world heritage sites Hampi and Pattadkal and exquisite temples at Belur and Halebeedur.

He said the Rs 40-crore project "Golden Chariot' would carry 88 passengers in its 7-days sojourn would be a flagship package tour of the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) was funded by Union government, Indian Railways and the state Government.

Mr Murthy said the interiors of the coach had been lavishly decorated and would have 28 cabins with beds on twin sharing basis and 17 double bed cabin besides a cabin for physically challenged.

It would also have a Conference coach with 25 to 30 seating capacities. The Golden Chariot with 5-star facilities also comes with Gym Coach, Two massage rooms for the ultimate relaxation experience and Net surfingarea.

Replying to questionhe said the Golden Chariot's 6-night and 7-days journey would start from Bangalore and traverse through Mysore, Shravanabelagola, Belur-Halebidu, Hampi, Pattadkal, Badami, Aihole and Goa. "The Goa was included in the luxurious package tour taking into consideration of the viability of the project" he said.

UNI