For Mumbai's safari enthusiasts, the call of the wild just got easier to answer. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced a series of wildlife tour packages that promise a hassle-free journey into nature's heart.
A New Initiative for Nature Lovers
In a
significant move for wildlife tourism, IRCTC's West Zone has partnered with the Maharashtra Forest Department to launch 'VANDARSHAN – Explore Nature. Discover Wildlife!'. This initiative, which began on November 19, 2026, is designed to simplify travel for safari lovers by bundling train tickets, accommodation, local transport, and confirmed safari permits into a single, convenient package. The primary goal is to make Maharashtra's rich biodiversity and stunning tiger reserves more accessible to tourists, removing the logistical hurdles of planning a wildlife trip. By offering an organised itinerary, these packages cater to families, photographers, and anyone seeking a well-planned escape into the wilderness.
Exploring Maharashtra's Tiger Country
The 'Vandarshan' tours focus exclusively on the celebrated tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries within Maharashtra. IRCTC has curated five distinct itineraries, each structured as a four-night, five-day journey. These packages offer various combinations of destinations, allowing travellers to choose their preferred adventure. The parks covered include the famous Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Pench Tiger Reserve, Bor Tiger Reserve, Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve, Umred-Paoni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, and Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. These protected areas are known for their dense forests and significant tiger populations, offering some of the best wildlife sighting opportunities in the country.
The Five 'Vandarshan' Itineraries
Travellers from Mumbai can select from five unique tour combinations. The first pairs the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve with Bor Tiger Reserve. Other options include Tadoba with Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve, Pench with Umred-Paoni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, Tadoba with Umred-Paoni-Karhandla, and finally, Tadoba with Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. This variety allows both first-time visitors and seasoned safari-goers to explore different forest ecosystems. Each itinerary is carefully planned to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities while ensuring a comfortable travel experience from start to finish.
Travel, Stays, and Safari Details
The convenience of these packages lies in their all inclusive nature. The journey from Mumbai begins every Thursday aboard the Vidarbha Express (Train No. 12105). The return trip from the Gondia region is scheduled for every Sunday on Train No. 12106. The packages include confirmed berths in either AC 2 Tier or AC 3 Tier, though availability is limited, with only a small number of seats earmarked for these tours on each departure. Upon arrival, local transportation, accommodation, and most importantly, pre booked safari permits are all taken care of, relieving travellers from the stress of last minute arrangements. The cost for these packages varies, with a starting price point noted at around ₹29,500 for the Tadoba and Bor tour.
How to Book Your Wildlife Adventure
Booking these wildlife tours is straightforward. Interested travellers can find all the details and make reservations directly through the official IRCTC Tourism website. Given the limited number of seats allocated for each tour, it is advisable to plan and book in advance, especially during peak seasons. The website provides comprehensive information on each of the five itineraries, including package costs, inclusions, and departure dates. For those who prefer offline booking or have specific queries, IRCTC has also provided a contact number for assistance. This initiative represents a seamless bridge between the convenience of railway travel and the thrill of exploring India's incredible natural heritage.
