The Journal
North Meets South: Palace on Wheels vs The Golden Chariot
Two halves of India
These trains showcase opposite ends of the subcontinent. The Palace on Wheels is the north's royal classic — Rajasthan's forts, deserts and the Taj Mahal. The Golden Chariot, launched in 2008 under Karnataka tourism, is the south's flagship, exploring temple towns, ruins and coast.
Where they go
The Palace on Wheels runs its fixed Rajasthan-and-Agra loop from Delhi. The Golden Chariot journeys through Karnataka — the palaces of Mysore, the extraordinary ruins of Hampi, the cave temples of Badami — and often continues to Goa, from a base in Bengaluru.
Character
The Palace on Wheels wears the heritage of the Rajput states; the Golden Chariot, in purple and gold, takes its coach names from South India's great dynasties such as the Hoysalas and Kadambas.
Which to choose?
If it's your first luxury-train journey in India and you want the iconic images — desert citadels and the Taj — choose the Palace on Wheels. Pick the Golden Chariot to discover a South India many travellers miss. See the train and itinerary.