Sacred Journey Begins
The Indian subcontinent reveres pilgrimage as a cornerstone of spiritual growth and cultural heritage, believed by many to be a once-in-a-lifetime endeavor
that also invigorates local economies. Catering to this profound sentiment, Indian Railways, through its tourism arm IRCTC, has launched an exceptional "Divine East Temple Tour." This package is part of the Bharat Gaurav train series, designed to make spiritual journeys more accessible and comfortable. The inaugural voyage of this deluxe tourist train is scheduled to commence on March 09, 2026, departing from Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station. This thoughtfully curated tour promises an immersive experience into the spiritual and cultural fabric of Eastern India.
A Pilgrimage Through Time
This comprehensive 10-day spiritual expedition aboard the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train charts a course through a constellation of sacred destinations, all commencing and concluding at Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station. The itinerary includes the ancient city of Varanasi, the vibrant metropolis of Kolkata, the spiritually charged Gangasagar, the revered shores of Puri, the historically rich Bhubaneswar, the architectural marvel of Konark, the serene Chilika Lake, and the significant Baidyanath Dham, home to a Jyotirlinga. This tour is meticulously designed to offer not just visits to religious sites but also to immerse travelers in the unique heritage and natural beauty of each location, with a special emphasis on the profound experience of a holy dip at Gangasagar.
Highlights of the East
The journey is packed with deeply significant spiritual and cultural encounters. In Varanasi, pilgrims will have the opportunity to visit the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, and witness the captivating Ganga Aarti. Kolkata, hailed as India's cultural capital, will offer glimpses of iconic landmarks like the Victoria Memorial, alongside visits to significant temples such as the Kali Ghat (a Shakti Peeth) and the Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir. The tour's primary attraction is the excursion to the sacred shores of Gangasagar, where travelers can take a holy dip at the confluence of the Sagar and Ganges rivers and seek blessings at the Kapil Muni Temple.
Odisha's Spiritual Circuit
Continuing the spiritual odyssey, the train proceeds to Puri, offering devotees a chance to seek darshan at the magnificent Shri Jagannath Temple. The tour then extends to an extensive exploration of Odisha's spiritual circuit. This segment includes a visit to Bhubaneswar, the 'Temple City,' as well as sites like the Dhauli Shanti Stupa, the ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sun Temple at Konark. This part of the journey showcases the rich history, architectural brilliance, and spiritual depth of the region, providing a holistic cultural and religious experience.
Concluding the Divine Path
The final spiritual destination on this enlightening journey is Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar, a place of immense significance as it houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. This sacred site marks the culmination of the pilgrimage, offering a profound sense of spiritual fulfillment. After soaking in the divine aura of Baidyanath Dham, the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train will embark on its return journey to Delhi. Travelers will arrive back at Safdarjung Railway Station, carrying with them a treasure trove of cherished memories, enriching spiritual experiences, and a deeper connection to the sacred heritage of East India.
