Bengaluru: Chief minister DK Shivakumar Saturday flagged off the Golden Chariot luxury tourist train for the 2026-27 season and said the govt was considering discounted off-season fares to make the experience accessible to more tourists from Karnataka.Speaking at Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna railway station, Shivakumar said, “Since the Golden Chariot is a luxury train, the cost of travel is somewhat high. However, tourists from Karnataka should not be deprived of this experience.” He added that discussions had been held with Indian Railways officials.Calling the train an asset to Karnataka tourism, Shivakumar said it was relaunched in 2024 after being non-operational for several years. He said the revival could boost tourism, generate employment and support local economies.On expanding routes, he said Karnataka and railway officials would explore options without disrupting regular train services.
