The Indian Railways has introduced the concept of theme-based tourist trains. Tour packages range from Rs 15,000 to over Rs 1 lakh.
The tourist trains operate in different circuits. From Buddhist, Jyotirlinga circuit trains to Northeast tours, there is a package for everyone.
Most of the tour packages include tour guides, meals, hotel stays and connecting travel arrangements.
photo: twitter/indianrailguruThere are three types of trains. One of them includes non-AC sleeper, AC III tier and AC II tier coaches.
video: twitter/irctcThis train has AC II tier & AC I tier coaches, with a semi-luxury feel. Cabins have electronic safes, washrooms are fitted with shower cubicles, etc.
photo: twitter/indiainslThe common areas are furnished with single sofas, reading lights, a book cabinet and even a foot massager.
The Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train will take pilgrims to Kashi, Puri & Dwarka. The website for this is still under construction.
On March 21, the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train left from Safdarjung, Delhi for the "North East Discovery: Beyond Guwahati" tour.
photo: twitter/indianrailguruPassengers of the Punyaskshetra Yatra Bharat Gaurav Tourist train were welcomed with flowers, a dance performance and more.
In Gujarat, passengers arriving on the tourist train were given a vibrant traditional welcome.