Embark on a luxurious voyage of discovery through the Cradle of Stone Architecture. The Golden Chariot train travels through timeless historical heritage sites, resplendent palaces, wildlife reserves and golden beaches.
The Splendor of the South journey begins at Bangalore and takes you to the historical Temple cities of Mamallapuram, Kanchipuram, Tiruchirapalli, Thanjavur and Madurai. The beaches of Kovalam await and you with their sandy shores. You will glide by boat trough the palm fringed and silent canals of the Backwaters to Kochi, the lively port city on the Arabian sea. You will experience history and finally reach back to its starting point at Bangalore.
Onboard
The cabins are steeped in history, lovingly crafted by skilled artisans. Sink into a bed of royalty, reminiscent of the Mysore Maharajas, admire the intricate carvings on the ceiling, the wall panels and furniture inspired by Mysore and Hoysala architecture.
Each of the train's coaches has been named after the dynasties that ruled Karnataka - Kadamba, Hoysala, Rastrakota, Ganga, Chalukya, Bhahamani, Adhilshahi, Sangama, Shathavashna, Yudukula and Vijayanagar.
Your cabin features:
• Private ensuite with shower, basin and toilet
• Luxurious amenities and accessories
• Air-conditioning
• LCD television with 6 satellite channels
• DVD
• Wi-Fi
• Wardrobe
• Vanity/writing desk
Bedding configurations are as follows:
26 twin bed cabins
17 double bed cabins
1 cabin for the physically challenged.
Dining & Cuisine
The Golden Chariot features two restaurants; Nala and Ruchi. Nala named after a king and legendary chef from the times of the Mahabharata and Ruchi, a name that means fine taste in Sanskrit. The two restaurants serve a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian culinary delights.
The Interiors of both restaurants are inspired by the timeless aesthetics of Hampi and Halebid, each offering 4 and 2-seater dining cabins with comfortable sofas and chairs.
Madira - The Lounge Bar
Madira, named after the mythical drink of the gods, is a relaxing and elegant place to relax and enjoy your time onboard. The lounge's plush and royal interiors were modelled after the Mysore Palace. Pour yourself fine spirits as you unravel your soul, as you watch performances of local artisans. Celebrate the journey into timelessness as lilting music uplifts you.
Spa and Gym Coach
At the Ayurveda centre, Spa and gym, discover age old traditions and cures to modern day stress.
• Two massage rooms for an out of this world rejuvenation experience.
• For those who prefer a local flavour - Ayurveda massages are provided.
• Fully equipped gymnasium.
Itinerary
Your vacation includes:
• Accommodation in a deluxe cabin with attached bathroom
• All meals, including tea, coffee and mineral water
• Conducted sightseeing tours
• Gala Dinner in Poovar
• Kathakali dance show in Kochi
• Transport for sightseeing’s with an air-conditioned deluxe bus
• Entrance fees to monuments and museums
• Accompanying German and English speaking guides
• Cultural Programmes
• Local Taxes and fees
Not Included:
• Alcoholic beverages
• Other personal expenditures
• Laundry services
• Telephone calls
• Video camera fees
• Spa car services
• other items of personal nature
• Visa for India
• Gratuities for rail staff
Journey Highlights:
• Mamallapuram Shore Temple
• Sightseeing tour of chennai
• Aurobindo Ashram
• Tiruchirapalli's spectacular Rock Fort Temple
• Brihadeshwara Temple at Tanjore
• Meenakshi Temple's Hall of a thousand Pillars
• Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Thiruparangundram Temple at Madurai
• Sunrise at Kanyakumari
• Palace of Thiruvananthpuram
• Kovalam Beach
• Traditional boat cruise on Vembanad Lake
• Kumarakom, a small backwater village
• The Dutch Palace - Mattancherry Palace
Itinerary:
Day 1: Bangalore
Meals: High Tea and Dinner
Day 2: Mamallapuram & Chennai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Pondicherry-Tiruchirapalli
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Tiruchirapalli & Thanjavur
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Madurai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Kanyakumari & Thiruvananthapuram
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Allepey-Kumarakom-Kochi
M eals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Bangalore
Meals: Breakfast
For full details regarding the itinerary for this journey, click on the "Download Itinerary" button.
Departure Information
2012
Apr 2, 30
Oct 15, 29
Nov 12, 26
Dec 10, 24
2013
Jan 7, 21
Feb 4, 18
Mar 4, 18
Additional Information
Checkin:
The documentation which you receive will include an itinerary and your confirmation e-voucher from The Golden Chariot. Ensure that you have this e-voucher when you arrive at the Taj West End Hotel, where your e-voucher will be exchanged for the train tickets. A representative will be on hand at the train station to assist you with boarding.
Travel documentation and insurance:
You must have visa before arriving in India and these are available at Indian missions worldwide. Please ensure that you have correct and valid documentation to enter India.
Rail Tickets strongly recommends that you take out travel insurance to cover cancellations, health requirements, luggage and valuables.
Additional charges:
All major currencies and credit cards are accepted as forms for payment for additional charges which are incurred during your journey.
Information for smokers:
The Deccan Odyssey has exclusive non-smoking suite cars and separate suite cars for the guests who love to smoke.
Climate:
September is at the end of the monsoon period and temperatures can range from 35°C - 40°C, it can also be humid. Between October and December the post monsoon period sees a drop in temperatures with the average minimum around to 18°C and maximum 38°C. January to March is the winter period, with January being the region’s coldest month. Temperatures during these months can range from 10°C to 27°C. April is the start of summer and temperatures in this season range from 32°C to 45°C.
Clothing:
Light cottons and other breathable fabrics are strongly recommended, with jumpers/cardigans needed for winter nights. Umbrellas rather than rain gear are suggested for the monsoon months.
To Book
This product is not currently available to book through our online booking system.
To book, please contact one of our Rail Specialists on 1300 360 823 or email details of your requirements to info@railtickets.com.au
Terms and Conditions
Payment:
• A deposit of 50% of the total fare is required to confirm places on this service - if payment is not made, a firm reservation is not held.
• The balance must be paid no later than 50 days prior to the intended travel date.
• Bookings made within 50 days of the intended travel date must be paid in full at time of booking.
Cancellation and Administration Fees:
• Cancellations more than 60 days prior to the departure date incur a 10% cancellation penalty.
• Cancellations made 31 - 59 days prior to departure incur a 25% cancellation penalty.
• Cancellations made 30 days or less prior to departure are non-refundable
