Golden Chariot is one of the few renowned luxury trains in India that gives you a chance to explore the beauty of South India in the most luxuriant manner.
Offering a spectacular itinerary spread over 7 days and 8 nights, Jewels of the South chugs across some of the choicest of destinations across South India linking some of the most spectacular and exciting destinations.
Every state is unique in its own way for its cultural, historical, architectural and natural significance. The journey commences from Bangalore and crosses through Chennai, Puducherry, temple town of Thanjavur and Madurai and from there on to ‘god’s own country’ Kerala.
The journey continues with a crisscrossing ride to verdant Thiruvananthapuram, backwater heaven Alappuzha, the scenic coasts of Kochi and returns back to Bangalore marking the end of the journey. A magical journey in a timeless era of beauty and romance as you savor each moment you spent on board and off train during your week long voyage.
Splendor of the South Route Map
Splendor of the South is fitted with several facilities and services that guests can take indulge in. Luxurious cabins with plush interiors, fine dining at the two onboard restaurants and the in house lounge bar Madira quenches all thirsts of the travelers.
Bangalore Palace
The tour starts in Bangalore. One can explore the city, also called the IT hub of the country during the day; accommodation is envisaged at Bangalore. In the evening you will assemble at the Bangalore Railway Station. From here begins the enchanting sojourn of the Splendor of the South. After a traditional welcome, guests will be guided to their cabins to relax. By 2200 hours the train will depart for Chennai. Dinner will be served on board for the guests.
A scene of Mamallapuram Temple
On the 2nd day, the train arrives at Chennai at 0600 hours. Today you will be visiting the town of Mamallapuram, located about 58 km from Chennai. Mamallapuram is famous for its temples. A few of the most important attractions are the temple of Rathas, the Penance of Bhagirath, and the Shore Temple. After indulging in the local food, proceed back to Chennai. Attractions at Chennai include visit to St. Mary’s Church, St. George Fort, Kapeeleshwar Temple, National Art Gallery and Museum and Saint Thomas Cathedral. After the sightseeing, return back to the train for a lavish spread of dinner as the train trundles towards Pondicherry.
Golden Metallic Sphere
In the wee hours of Day 3rd, the train arrives at Pondicherry, once a French colony. After the breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of the city, few attractions being magnificent French styled mansions, Auroville, and Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Return back to the train to proceed towards Tiruchirapalli. The train arrives here at 2200 hrs and halts for the night at Tiruchapalli.
Brihadisvara Temple, Thanjavur
On the 4th day, Trichupalli is the host of the journey. Sightseeing includes Rock Fort temple, Mathrubhuteshwar Shrine and the Ucchi Pillayar temple. Later you proceed for Thanjavur, famous for its paintings and temples. City attractions include Brihadeshwara temple, Alangudi temple, Chandra Bagawan temple, and the Schwartz Church. Return back to the train for dinner and overnight stay.
On day 5th, the train chugs into Madurai at 0600 hours. After a scrumptious breakfast, commence the sightseeing of Madurai visiting Meenakshi temple, the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, and the Thiruparangundram temple. Return back to the train for dinner and overnight stay.
A scene of Kerala Backwaters tour
On the 6th day of the sojourn, you will arrive in “God’s own country,” Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city is the first destination. The highlights of the sightseeing tour are Padmanabhaswamy temple, the Napier Museum, and the Sri Chitra Art Gallery. The next stop is Poovar Island, where you can explore the beautiful beaches after having a gala lunch there. Immerse yourself in the peace and solitude of the island to get a refreshing experience during the journey. A Gala dinner and dance performances by local artists will be especially arranged for you as the sun hides itself behind the starry sky.
On day 7th, the train arrives at the backwater region of Alleppey, Kerala. The location of the same is simply breathtaking. After a delicious lunch at Kumarakom, proceed for Kochi, the last stop on the journey. Here you can have a stroll to the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, and the St. Francis Church.
A traditional dance performance, Kathakali, is arranged in the evening. After a leisurely dinner before you proceed towards Bangalore to reach the end phase of your journey.
You will arrive in Bangalore in the early hours of the morning on the 8th day. After a lavish breakfast aboard, transfer to the airport to board the flight back home.
Comment