The southern region of India is an incredible land replete with rich
cultural heritage and architectural marvels. The temples of this region
exemplify spectacular blend of sheer spirituality and brilliant
artistry. Golden Chariot, south India's first and only luxury train,
offers glimpse of various temples cities and World Heritage Sites that
speak volumes about its glorious history and rich culture.
The
ancient Hindu culture has been conserved and fostered in these temples
since medieval times by different dynasties of the south. Various
Dravidian temples that are sprinkled all across this region were
commissioned by erstwhile rulers in veneration of their holy deity.
During the course of its two weeklong itineraries namely Pride of the
South and Splendor of the South, the luxury train traverses the course
of enchanting destinations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala which
bears testimony to the Dravidian art and architecture.
The
Pride of the South journey aboard Golden Chariot train trail the course
of Karnataka for 8 days and 7 nights and covers various culturally
significant destinations which include Belur, Halebid, Hampi and Badami.
Whereas Belur and Halebid are known for its magnificently designed
Hoyasala temples depicting carved images of Hindu deities, sages,
Hoyasala kings on the outer walls, Hampi is known for its much admired
Dravidian temples which has been emblazoned as UNESCO World Heritage
Site.
Badami Caves, renowned for its rock-cut cave temples
is also a part of Pride of the South journey. The architecture of these
caves represents three different religious sects- Hinduism, Jainism and
Buddhism- and holds exquisite carvings, mural paintings and sculptures
of various deities. Just 22 kilometers away from Badami lays the World
Heritage Site of Pattadakkal known for displaying a seamless fusion of
Dravidian and Nagara style of architecture.
But the
temples of Karnataka are just speck in the vast of repertoire of Indian
heritage with many destinations in this region which are also capable of
gratifying the penchant for temple tour. The Splendor of the South
journey aboard Golden Chariot offers excursion to famous temple cities
of Mamallapuram, Kanchipuram, Tiruchirapalli, Thanjavur and Madurai,
each of which showcases that the erstwhile rulers of south were not just
religious but also the great patron of Dravidian art and architecture.
Not
to forget that Golden Chariot is a luxury train and offers every
indulgence required in a luxury rail journey. The cabins of this train
are patterned to reflect the architectural traditions of Hoyasala and
Mysore apparent in its exquisitely carved ceilings, wall panels and
furniture. Besides timeless décor, the train comes equipped with various
modern amenities required to maintain the contemporary panache. To add
to the charm of royal stay, the train also comes equipped with two plush
restaurants, lounge bar and business center and even a spa facility
something previously unheard in a luxury train.
To say that Golden chariot
offers peak into the religious and cultural domain of southern region
of India will be an overstatement. The two weeklong journeys of this
luxury train trails the route of various temples cities of south India
and even the name of the train is inspired from the Stone Chariot in
Hampi. Plush accommodation, gourmet dining, guided sightseeing and
impeccable hospitality ensures a lifetime experience on board.
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