India and Orient Sales Executive Steve Lidgey tells us of his recent Indian adventure with a journey on the luxurious Golden Chariot…

The motto of the Karnataka state tourist board is “One state, many worlds”. Indeed this definitely is the case with game drives in national parks, majestic temples and ruins, historical palaces, coffee plantations and a luxury train all in the one state. All in the one week in my case, though I would definitely recommend spending at least double that time if possible.

In Bandipur National Park I was lucky to catch sight of a leopard wrapped around a tree as he calmly watched the three jeeps parked up on the neighbouring road. However, the clicking of cameras did not disturb his leisurely late afternoon rest. We drove further around the park and shortly after saw two more leopards crossing the road ahead. Slowly approaching we could see the peaking eyes of both cats watching us from the undergrowth. However these gracious animals were not so interested in people watching and continued on their way. The tiger, on the other hand, remained elusive although we were fortunate enough to see a wild elephant, mongooses chasing themselves around the grass, gaur (Indian bison) and wild dogs.

Our next destination was Hassan where we boarded the Golden Chariot. A luxury train handcrafted in steel and carved out of wood. Our journey began through Karnataka, a state where a succession of kingdoms have ruled for century after century. Each of the 18 carriages on the Golden Chariot are all named after one of the ruling dynasties. Of the 18 carriages, 11 are reserved for passengers. Each passenger carriage has 4 smart en suite cabins with an attendant on duty.

There are 2 restaurant carriages, a bar, a carriage with a business centre and massage room. A comprehensive circuit of Karnataka can be done on a 7 night journey, although for my adventure, I chose to leave at Goa to enjoy a relaxing end of my journey. For people not so keen on such a long train journey, there are a number of other options available, including 3 or 4 night journeys, travelling from Hassan to Goa or Bangalore.

One of the highlights of my Golden Chariot journey came at the end of a long day of sightseeing at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi. Set amongst the hills laden with huge rocks eroded over millions of years is the 16^th century Vittala Temple. First the site of the ornate stone chariot, then a glorious red sunset and finally, a private “sound and light” show. The temple site closed at dusk at which point the Golden Chariot guests were treated to a private illumination of the incredible sculptural work. A temple expert gave a subtle musical performance tapping on the reverberating pillars of the temple. Later that night all of the passengers gathered together in the bar and discussed our appreciation of this unique experience.

On the last morning we bid farewell to the dutiful Golden Chariot staff and descended at Vasco de Gama station in the neighbouring state of Goa. The other passengers were continuing for a further night to return to the state capital of Bengaluru (or Bangalore as we better know it). Goa was intensely humid and the monsoon rains were due to begin any day. Despite only spending one night I was impressed by the laid back style of the Goans. Goa appeared a world apart from the villagers collecting water we saw in the Karnataka, the brightly coloured saris, the trophy room at the impressive Mysore Palace or the green leaves of the coffee plants in Coorg. Next time, I will certainly stay for a longer time to discover more about this fascinating country.

If you would like to find out how you can enjoy a Golden Chariot adventure, call our India specialists now on 08456 345 114.

About Steve Lidgey

Other articles by Steve Lidgey

As the Asia Product Manager (Indian Subcontinent & The Orient) there are so many different memorable journeys to think about on every working day. As I can´t afford to do them all myself it is a privilege and a pleasure to work on planning other peoples holidays. My favourite destinations include the north-east of Thailand, southern Laos and Rajasthan. Away from my usual country portfolio Colombia and Brazil are places I love to visit…and then revisit again.