2011年11月7日 星期一

Pride of the South: Exploring Many Worlds of Karnataka

Pride of the South is one of the two itineraries of the Golden Chariot, one of the most revered luxury trains in India. The Pride of the South itinerary provides a heady mix of destinations and attractions that will enable you to catch a glimpse of South Indian history and culture. The train travels to some of the most fascinating destinations in Karnataka and sun kissed beaches of Goa on a week-long ride.
The journey spanning over 7 nights and 8 days include visit to the 'Garden City' Bangalore, wildlife reserve of Kabini/Bandipur, Mysore, medieval temples of Belur and Halebid, heritage sites of Hampi and Badami and tropical beaches of Goa.
Pride of the South journey will commence from Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka. Bangalore is also known as the 'Garden City of India' owing to its salubrious climate and lush greenery. The city offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and picturesque locations. Besides natural beauty, guests also get to enjoy a cultural extravaganza at Chitrakala Parishad before embarking on their journey on board the Golden Chariot.
The next destination included in Pride of the South itinerary is Kabini/Bandipur. Bandipur is renowned for being the hunting ground of erstwhile kings of Mysore. The Bandipur National Park is formed with the adjoining Nagarhole National park, Mudumalai National park and Wynad wildlife sanctuary. The place is home to around 70 Bengal tigers, 3,000 Indian elephants and over 300 species of birds. The jungle tour starts with a safari boat ride into the heart of the park, where you are sure to spot some rare wildlife animals and bird species.
Moving on your Pride of the South tour, you will arrive in Mysore next. The attractions you will visit here are Mysore Palace (A royal palace built in Indo-Saracenic style), Brindavan Gardens and the island fortress of Srirangpatna.
Hassan, the famous temple city of Karnataka is the next destination of this itinerary. Today's sightseeing includes a visit to Shravanbelagola. Located 52 kilometer away from Hassan, Shravanbelagola is an important Jain pilgrim centre. The city houses Asia's largest monolithic statue of Gomateshwara which is situated atop of Vindhyagiri hill.
Later today, you will be taken to Belur and Halebid. Belur was the early capital of Hoyasala Empire The major attraction here is the Chennakesava Temple Complex, built by King Vishnuvardhana, to commemorate his victory over Cholas. Halebid was the capital of Hoyasala Empire. The city is home to some of the finest temples built in Hoyasala style of architecture. The famous among them is the Hoysaleshwara temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva.
On the sixth day of your Pride of the South itinerary on board the Golden Chariot you will arrive in Hampi. The much-admired Dravidian temples are the major attractions in this city. Virupaksha temple, the Elephants' stables, Hazara Rama temple, Vittala temple and local craft markets are some of the attractions which you visit today. These group of monuments are recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Badami, famous for its rock cut cave temples is the next destination of this itinerary. Located at a distance of 22 kilometer from Badami, Padattakal is famous for its historical temples. The temples placed in the town displays both Dravidian and Nagara style of architecture. Group of Monuments at Padattakal are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On the penultimate day of Pride of the South itinerary, the Golden Chariot will arrive in Goa. Old Goa renowned for its churches and cathedrals and an Old Portuguese house known as Sola Souto Maior are today's tour highlight.
The Splender of the South tour itinerary lets you explore many worlds of Karnataka. With ancient temples, wildlife reserve and heritage sites, this luxury train tour on board the Golden Chariot offers all the varieties which are expected in a luxury rail journey.
Harren Le is an avid traveler and has same passion for writing. His articles offer practical information, review, news and interesting trivia about traveling and Luxury Train tour across India.

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