IRCTC Divine East Temple Tour: A Spiritual Journey on Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a Navratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has unveiled an exciting new pilgrimage package: the Divine East Temple Tour. This journey will be operated aboard the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train, offering a seamless blend of spiritual enrichment and cultural exploration. Designed to make pilgrimages more accessible and comfortable, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for devotees and travelers alike.
Journey Dates and Starting Point
The spiritual odyssey is scheduled to commence from Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station on March 9, 2026. The tour will span 10 days, concluding on March 18, 2026, with passengers returning to the same starting point in Delhi, enriched with memories and experiences.
Route and Destinations Covered
The Divine East Temple Tour will traverse a meticulously planned route, covering key religious and cultural sites across multiple states. The itinerary includes:
- Varanasi: Experience the divine aura of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a revered Jyotirlinga, and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.
- Kolkata: Explore India's cultural capital, visiting landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and significant temples such as Kali Ghat (Shakti Peeth) and Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir.
- Gangasagar: Enjoy a day excursion to the sacred shores, featuring a holy dip at the Sagar Sangam and darshan at the Kapil Muni Temple.
- Puri: Seek blessings at the Shri Jagannath Temple, a major pilgrimage site.
- Odisha Circuit: Tour Bhubaneswar, the Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark Sun Temple.
- Baidyanath Dham (Deoghar): Conclude the spiritual journey with a visit to this Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva in Jharkhand.
This comprehensive route ensures a deep dive into the heritage and spirituality of Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
Ticket Prices and Categories
The Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train offers three AC classes to suit different budgets, with all-inclusive pricing:
- 1AC Class: Rs 1,06,940 per person
- 2AC Class: Rs 98,925 per person
- 3AC Class: Rs 79,285 per person
These rates cover the entire package, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Key Features and Inclusions
The train is equipped with enhanced safety and security features, along with dedicated tour managers to assist passengers throughout the journey. It can accommodate up to 150 tourists across its three AC categories. Notable amenities include:
- Two restaurant cars serving hygienic vegetarian meals.
- Accommodation in AC hotels at various destinations.
- All meals (strictly vegetarian) provided onboard and during stays.
- All transfers and sightseeing in AC vehicles.
- Travel insurance for added peace of mind.
- Services of IRCTC Tour Managers to guide and enhance the experience.
This all-inclusive approach allows travelers to focus solely on their spiritual and cultural immersion.
How to Book the Tour
Interested individuals can book the Divine East Temple Tour through multiple channels:
- Visit the IRCTC tourism portal at www.irctctourism.com.
- Contact authorized IRCTC tourism offices located across the country.
Prospective travelers are encouraged to check the website for detailed itineraries, exact schedules, and booking procedures to secure their spots on this unique pilgrimage journey.
Significance of the Tour
Pilgrimages hold immense importance in Indian culture, often considered a must-do in one's lifetime. The IRCTC Divine East Temple Tour not only facilitates these spiritual journeys but also supports local traders and promotes tourism in the regions visited. By offering a deluxe, organized experience, IRCTC continues to innovate in the tourism sector, making heritage and religious sites more accessible to a wider audience.
This tour represents a perfect blend of devotion and exploration, promising participants a transformative 10-day adventure through some of India's most sacred and historically rich destinations.
