New Delhi: Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) will soon hand over the Golden Chariot Train to Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC). The tourism arm of Indian Railways signed an MoU with KSTDC to market and operate the Golden Chariot Train in New Delhi on Tuesday. Minister of State of Railways, Suresh C Angadi, and Minister of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, CT Ravi, Chairman, Railway Board, Vinod Kumar Yadav and officials from IRCTC & KSTDC were present on the occasion.
IRCTC is planning a revamp of the train once KSTDC hands over the reins to it. The itineraries will also be rehashed to add different flavours that Karnataka has to offer. The new itineraries shall be a mix of history, culture, wildlife and nature. It is proposed to include Bandipur, Mysore, Halebid, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Bijapur and Goa in the itinerary. IRCTC is expected to carry out an internal refurbishment of the train and commence operations from March 2020.
Speaking on the occasion, Suresh C. Angadi said that he has directed the IRCTC and KSDTC to keep the price of the tickets competitive so that the common people can also avail the facility of this train. Wishing grand success to this project the minister added that this train will boost tourism in Southern India.
Minister of Tourism for Karnataka, CT Ravi said "Golden Chariot showcases the rich culture and heritage of the region. The MoU between IRCTC & KSTDC will have mutual benefit for both the organizations and tourism will be strengthened through this partnership".
The Golden Chariot train commenced operations in 2008. It is a Government of Karnataka initiative in a Joint Venture with Ministry of Railways. The 18 coach long train with 44 guest rooms having a capacity of 84 guests, covers tourist attractions in the state of Karnataka and other south Indian states.