As the travel season kicks off, the Indian Railways is stepping up to accommodate passengers with the introduction of special trains. Starting April 12, 2025, travelers can look forward to a new service connecting Haridwar to Rajgir, followed by the launch of a Haridwar to Jabalpur route on April 17, 2025. This initiative comes as long-distance train seats are filling up rapidly, with no availability expected until May and June.
According to railway officials, the special trains are aimed at alleviating the strain on regular services during this busy travel period. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Aditya Gupta emphasized the importance of these additions, stating, "Special trains are being run for the convenience of the passengers." With the summer season bringing an influx of travelers, the railway's decision to introduce these routes is seen as a timely response to escalating demand.
The Haridwar to Jabalpur train will operate every Thursday at 5:40 PM, making stops at several key locations including Meerut, Hapur, Khurja, Aligarh, Agra, Jhansi, and Sagar before reaching its destination. This service will run until June 26, 2025, providing much-needed relief to passengers who would otherwise struggle to find seats on regular trains.
In addition to these special trains, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced a new tourist package titled the ‘Haridwar-Rishikesh-Vaishnodevi-Amritsar-Anandpur Yatra’ Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train. Scheduled to begin on April 23, 2025, this nine-night, ten-day journey will cover several significant religious and cultural sites, including the Mansa Devi Temple, Ganga-Aarti at Har-Ki-Pauri, and the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
This tour is specifically designed for the residents of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with boarding and deboarding facilities available at various stations including Vijayawada, Guntur, Nalgonda, and Secunderabad. The fare for this comprehensive package starts at ₹18,150 for sleeper class accommodations, with options for 3AC and 2AC categories priced at ₹30,730 and ₹40,685 respectively.
Each fare includes transportation, accommodation, and catering services, ensuring a comfortable experience for travelers. Additionally, safety measures such as CCTV surveillance in all coaches and travel insurance are included, along with the presence of IRCTC tour managers for assistance throughout the journey.
With the travel season in full swing, these new train services and tour packages reflect the Indian Railways' commitment to enhancing passenger convenience and satisfaction. As seats fill up quickly, travelers are encouraged to book their journeys early to secure their spots.
For those interested in the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train, bookings can be made by contacting the IRCTC at the provided numbers or through their official website. This initiative not only aims to facilitate travel but also to promote tourism across some of India’s most revered spiritual destinations.
As the country prepares for a busy travel season, the introduction of these special trains and tourist packages is a welcome development for many. With the promise of comfort and convenience, travelers can look forward to a more enjoyable journey as they explore the rich cultural tapestry of India.
In conclusion, the Indian Railways is not just responding to the immediate needs of travelers but is also paving the way for a more organized and enjoyable travel experience, ensuring that passengers can focus on what truly matters—making memories along their journey.
