The Journey Begins
For those seeking to fulfill their spiritual aspirations, the Indian Railways, through its tourism arm IRCTC, has introduced a remarkable pilgrimage experience.
This "Divine East Temple Tour" package operates aboard the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train, designed to make journeys to religiously significant locations more accessible. The entire expedition commenced from Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station on March 09, 2026, marking the start of an immersive cultural and spiritual exploration that benefits both travelers and local economies. This initiative simplifies the traditional pilgrimage process, allowing devotees to focus on their spiritual journey with comfort and convenience.
Sacred Destinations Unveiled
This extraordinary 10-day train tour will transport pilgrims through a carefully selected route, commencing from Delhi and weaving its way through a series of revered spiritual and cultural landmarks. The itinerary includes the ancient city of Varanasi, the vibrant metropolis of Kolkata, the sacred shores of Gangasagar, the holy city of Puri, the historic sites of Bhubaneswar and Konark, the tranquil Chilika Lake, and finally, the revered Baidyanath Dham, which houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The tour promises a rich tapestry of experiences, encompassing ancient temples, significant heritage sites, and serene beaches, with a particularly highlighted opportunity for a sacred dip at Gangasagar.
Varanasi and Kolkata Highlights
The spiritual odyssey commences with an exploration of Varanasi, where travelers will have the profound opportunity to visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. Following this, the train proceeds to Kolkata, the cultural heart of India. Here, the tour encompasses iconic landmarks such as the majestic Victoria Memorial, alongside visits to significant religious sites like the Kali Ghat, a revered Shakti Peeth, and the Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir, offering a glimpse into the city's rich spiritual and historical fabric.
Gangasagar and Puri
A pivotal highlight of this pilgrimage is the day excursion to the sacred shores of Gangasagar. This experience includes the auspicious ritual of a holy dip at the confluence of the Sagar Sangam and a visit to the ancient Kapil Muni Temple, an event anticipated to be the tour's main draw. Subsequently, the journey continues to Puri, a city renowned for the divine presence of Lord Jagannath. Devotees will have the chance to seek blessings at the revered Shri Jagannath Temple, immersing themselves in the spiritual fervor of this coastal pilgrimage site.
Odisha Circuit Exploration
The tour extends to encompass a comprehensive exploration of Odisha's spiritual and historical treasures. This includes a visit to Bhubaneswar, the capital city dotted with numerous temples, the serene Dhauli Shanti Stupa, which commemorates the Kalinga War, and the ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, showcasing intricate rock-cut architecture. A significant stop in this circuit is the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its exquisite architecture and historical importance, offering a deep dive into the region's cultural heritage.
Baidyanath Dham Culmination
The concluding spiritual destination on this extensive pilgrimage is Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar. This sacred site is revered as the abode of one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, making it a highly significant pilgrimage center for devotees of Lord Shiva. Visiting Baidyanath Dham offers a powerful conclusion to the spiritual journey, allowing participants to connect with the divine in a profound and meaningful way before the train begins its return journey. The tour concludes with travelers returning to Delhi, enriched with cherished memories and transformative spiritual experiences.
