Spending seven days onboard a train may sound uncomfortable but in one case, this could not be further from the truth. Oozing opulence, the Golden Chariot is a truly luxurious experience which will whisk you away to all the best bits of India.
On board you will find two sublime restaurants serving an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine in vibrant, elegant surroundings. There is also an onboard bar, gym and spa. The decor draws from traditional Hoysala architecture and the rooms are simple yet stunning, creating a real sense of a past era, it is only modern conveniences that will remind you we're in 2010.
Your first stop will be Mysore, a buzzing city with an eclectic mix of traditional and modern buildings and architecture. Often referred to as the 'City of Palaces', Mysore is home to many grand buildings with great domed roofs, some of them have now been reverted into museums allowing you to take in Mysore's history in some of its most resplendent buildings. You'll also visit Kabini/Bandipur and stay at a hunting lodge once frequented by the maharajas of old. Whilst there you can take part in a river cruise and jungle safari and see some of the untouched rural beauty of India.
After spending the night in the lodge you will return to the comfortable confines of the train before moving on to visit Hassan, Hospet, Badami and Goa before returning to Bangalore. Hassan is home to some of the most stunning temples in India. One of the main tourist attractions here is Belur and its Chennakesava temple complex, the centre piece of which is a glorious temple dedicated to Vishnu surrounded by a temple dedicated to his queen.
Hospet and Badami are two UNESCO world heritage sites and have a wealth of history surrounding them. Hospet sits close to Vijayanagara, the once capital of an empire which now lies in ruins. A stunning reminder of an India long past and the home of three generations of Hindu rulers. Badami is home to an array of cave temples. Carved from sandstone the most famous and popular temple has depictions of Lord Shiva in over 80 dance poses.
Goa is famed for its beaches and after spending the evening at Utorda beach watching the sunset. There are also some beautiful historic churches and the Sahakari Spice Plantation to explore.
So, if you fancy seeing India from a whole new perspective the Golden Chariot is the perfect way to spend your India holidays.