Explore India’s Popular Holy Sites With IRCTC’s New Train Tours

If you’re looking for ways to dive deep into India’s rich culture and tradition, here’s something you’re sure to love! IRCTC has launched two unique Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains that will take passengers on a spiritual and historical journey across India. Traversing across the country’s most revered pilgrimage and heritage sites, passengers can hop on the new service from Vijayawada (available now) or from Delhi on July 16.

Initiated by the Government of India, this endeavor will help foster religious tourism connecting the active history of Maharashtra with the spiritual and heritage marvels sighted down South.

North India Tour From Vijayawada

The 10-day journey from Vijayawada will take passengers through the holy sites of Haridwar, Rishikesh, Vaishno Devi, Amritsar, and Anandpur Sahib, among others. The itinerary includes significant religious locations such as Mansa Devi Temple, Har Ki Pauri, Ram Jhula, and Lakshman Jhula in the Haridwar-Rishikesh region, Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara and Naina Devi Temple, The Golden Temple in Amritsar and Mata Vaishno Devi Temple located in Katra.

Facilities for boarding and deboarding will be provided at various key stations in Andhra Pradesh, including Vijayawada and Guntur, as well as in Telangana, such as Nalgonda, Secunderabad, Kazipet, Peddapalli, Mancherial, and Sirpur.

The train will boast advanced safety measures, featuring CCTV monitoring, a public announcement system in every coach, and travel insurance for all passengers.

Shivaji Maharaj & Glorious Maratha Tour From Delhi

The second circuit, named “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Glorious Maratha Tour,” is set to commence on July 16 from Delhi, offering participants a 10-day journey through the historical landscapes of Maharashtra.

This train journey will emphasize locations tied to the life and legacy of Shivaji Maharaj, including Pune (Shaniwar Wada, Aga Khan Palace), Raigad Fort (the location of Shivaji’s coronation), Shivneri Fort, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Shirdi, Nashik, Trimbakeshwar, Shambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), Ellora Caves, and Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga.

Travellers have the opportunity to embark on the train from various locations, including New Delhi, Delhi Cantonment, Gurgaon, Rewari, Phulera, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Vasai Road, and Kalyan. The journey features a blend of heritage exploration and temple visits, providing an in-depth experience of Maratha pride and the rich cultural tapestry of India.

A visit to the Ellora Caves will highlight India's remarkable ancient architecture, while spiritual destinations such as Bhimashankar and Trimbakeshwar will appeal to those seeking religious experiences. Additionally, the itinerary features an overnight stay in Shirdi, providing travelers the opportunity to explore the esteemed Sai Baba Temple.

Passengers wishing to explore the two theme-based Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train circuits can secure their tickets via the official IRCTC website, with availability on a first-come, first-served basis. The pilgrimage journey from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to North India presents a variety of fare options. For double or triple occupancy, the prices are Rs 18,510 for Sleeper Class, Rs 30,730 for 3AC, and Rs 40,685 for 2AC. Children aged 5 to 11 can avail themselves of discounted rates, which are Rs 17,390 for Sleeper Class, Rs 29,420 for 3AC, and Rs 39,110 for 2AC.

Additionally, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Glorious Maratha Tour departing from Delhi is priced at Rs 19,180 for Sleeper Class, Rs 33,345 for AC III Tier, and Rs 47,330 for AC II Tier. Both tours encompass complete travel arrangements, lodging, meals, and security measures, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all passengers.