"KSTDC has signed an agreement with the Leela Group of Hotels to facilitate and market the Golden Chariot in India and abroad. The agreement with the group also provides for co-marketing the train and offering tour packages. So far the train has chartered over five journeys and the next tour is scheduled for July 28 2008," said Vinay Luthra, managing director, KSTDC.

For marketing the train in the US and Europe, KSTDC has empanelled GSAs. The GSAs selected by the corporation include: Exotic Journeys (for marketing in UK), Palace Tours (USA), Skyway International (Germany and Switzerland), Prime Travels (UK), Indo-Asia (Europe).

In addition to this, Luxury Trains, a GSA has also been signed up as marketing partner (world-wide).

KSTDC on Wednesday released ‘The Golden Chariot Trade Policy Document'.

The policy document outlines the roles, responsibilities and marketing initiatives by these trade partners and also outlines the policy to be adopted for the on-line reservation system.

Earlier in the day, Karnataka chief minister B S Yeddyurappa launched the on-line reservation facility for KSTDC's luxury train.

With this facility, the train is set to become comfortable to tourists from all over the world. The on-line reservation provides for value-added services such as streamlining bookings, allocation of the cabins, food preferences and additional services such as wheel chair.

Speaking at the launch, the chief minister said, "The train has not only put Karnataka Tourism on the global map but has become one of the more prestigious products of the country. These marketing initiatives are essential to make The Golden Chariot one of the most coveted train journeys in the world. This will also turn the attention to Karnataka's tourism industry."

He added, "We hold great potential for tourism in the state and if marketed properly, the state stands to benefit. Tourism creates opportunities, provides employment to many, boosts regional craftsmanship and artistry and The Golden Chariot provides an opportunity for Karnataka."