RailEnquiry

Golden Chariot, the luxury train which goes on a South yatra, is full of steam these days. It is attracting tourists from across the globe __ Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South America to the United Kingdom and other European countries.

    So far considered to be a white elephant, this chariot operated by Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) finally looks good to be rolling in style: now trips have been booked well in advance for the next season, which starts around September-October.

    This popularity is largely being attributed to word-ofmouth publicity in foreign countries. Apart from participating in prestigious international roadshows, including the recently concluded one in Berlin, the Golden Chariot played host to a doctors’ conference which had representations from over 30 countries.

    The recent tie-up with Great Rail Journeys, UK, will bring with it an assured number of bookings for the upcoming season. It is learnt that officials have received enquiries from a German company and are in talks with them to book a fixed number of berths for each season.

    “This is the first time since the train’s launch that we’ve received advance bookings in bulk. It is rather encouraging and we are sure of good business this season onwards,” said M Srinivas, project director, Golden Chariot.

EDUCATION SECTOR

Another potential area for the chariot is the educational sector. KSTDC officials are eyeing international schools, both in Bangalore and in foreign countries, and plan to invite them to take a ride on the luxury train. “There is the concept of taking out school kids on annual tours and we are eager to tap this opportunity,” said Srinivas. Officials said they will shortly approach top schools and universities, both in the country and abroad for bulk bookings.

ADVANCE BOOKING

November 5 trip: 40 seats November 12 trip: 30 seats December 17 trip: 30 (from Japan) Feb. 4, 2013 trip: 35 (Golden Chariot is an 88-seater luxury train)