'Golden Chariot' to be launched in November

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

Talking to newspersons here today, State Tourism and Information Secretary I M Vittala Murthy said the southern version of the 'Palace on Wheels' would chug through the lush green landscape with an astonishing abundance of wildlife, connecting magnificent World Heritage sites Hampi and Pattadkal and exquisite temples at Belur and Halebeedur.

'Golden Chariot', a Rs 40-crore project, would carry 88 passengers in its 7-day sojourn. It would be a flagship package tour of the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) funded by the Centre, Indian Railways and the State Government.

Mr Murthy said the interiors of the coach had been decorated. It 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 25-30 seating capacity. The Golden Chariot with five-star facilities, also comes with Gym Coach, two massage rooms and Net surfing area.

Replying to a question, he said the Golden Chariot's six-night-and-seven-day journey would start from Bangalore and traverse through Mysore, Shravanabelagola, Belur-Halebidu, Hampi, Pattadkal, Badami, Aihole and Goa.

''Goa was included in the package tour, taking the viability of the project into consideration'' he added.

UNI