Overview
- IRCTC unveiled the upgraded Golden Chariot on May 21, 2026, publishing full season details for the 2026–27 tourist run and listing refurbished cabins, Smart TVs, Wi‑Fi streaming, CCTV and modern fire-alarm systems.
- The train is configured for 80 guests across 40 cabins, including 13 double-bed cabins, 26 twin-bed cabins and one accessible cabin for differently abled travellers.
- Three curated South India itineraries are on offer—Pride of Karnataka (six days), Jewels of South (six days) and Glimpses of Karnataka (four days)—covering destinations such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hampi, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur and Goa.
- Onboard life centers on two fine-dining restaurants (Ruchi and Nalapaka), the Madira lounge and an Arogya Spa & Fitness Centre, and the published packages include all onboard meals, selected beverages, guided air‑conditioned transfers, monument entry fees and designated off‑board meals.
- IRCTC has opened bookings for selected departures between October 2026 and March 2027 with a 20% promotional tariff cut plus a stackable 5% early-bird discount for payments completed by June 30, 2026, a push that could quickly exhaust the train’s limited capacity and boost luxury rail tourism demand.