The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced the launch of a special spiritual tourism initiative — the “Uttar Bharat Devbhoomi Yatra” — under the Government of India’s Bharat Gaurav
Tourist Train scheme. Slated to commence on October 4 and run through October 14, the 11- day, 10-night tour aims to promote religious and heritage tourism across Northern India.
The initiative aligns with national campaigns such as “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” and “Dekho Apna Desh”, encouraging citizens to explore India’s cultural and spiritual richness.
A Journey Through the Spiritual Heart of North India
Covering a distance of nearly 5,000 kilometers, the itinerary includes some of India’s most revered religious and historical destinations, beginning with Haridwar and Rishikesh, where visitors can witness the sacred Ganga Aarti and experience the serenity of spiritual retreats. It continues to Amritsar, home to the magnificent Golden Temple and the vibrant Wagah Border ceremony that showcases patriotic fervor.
From there, the journey moves to Katra for the revered Mata Vaishno Devi Darshan, a pilgrimage nestled in the Trikuta Mountains. The spiritual trail then leads to Mathura and Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna and a hub of Bhakti devotion, filled with temples, kirtans, and vibrant rituals. Finally, the itinerary concludes in Agra with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of love and architectural brilliance.
The train departs from Kolhapur, with multiple boarding and deboarding points, including Miraj, Sangli, Karad, Satara, Pune, Lonavala, Karjat, Kalyan, Vasai Road, Vapi, Surat, and Vadodara, ensuring convenience for passengers across Maharashtra and Gujarat.
The tourist train will operate with modern LHB coaches, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey across all destinations. It offers three classes of travel to cater to different preferences and budgets. The Economy class (Sleeper Class) is priced at Rs 19,890, providing a budget-friendly option without compromising on essential amenities.
The Standard class (3AC) is available at Rs 33,560, offering air-conditioned comfort and reserved seating for a more relaxed travel experience. For those seeking added luxury, the Comfort class (2AC) is priced at Rs 44,460, featuring enhanced privacy, spacious berths, and superior onboard facilities to make the journey truly enjoyable.
The train has a total capacity of 750 passengers and comes equipped with modern amenities including onboard kitchen facilities, CCTV surveillance, and dedicated security personnel in each coach.
The all-inclusive tour package is designed to provide a hassle-free and enriching travel experience for every guest. It includes AC/Non-AC hotel stays on a sharing basis, ensuring comfortable accommodation at each destination. Guests will be served all vegetarian meals, both onboard the train and during offboard excursions, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Transfers and sightseeing are arranged in AC/Non-AC vehicles, offering convenience and flexibility during local visits.
The package also includes travel insurance coverage, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind. Throughout the journey, guests will be guided and assisted by IRCTC’s experienced tour managers, ensuring smooth coordination and support. To prioritize passenger well-being, strict hygiene and safety protocols are maintained at all times, making the tour both safe and memorable.
An IRCTC official stated, “We are committed to promoting cultural, spiritual, and heritage tourism across the country. The ‘Uttar Bharat Devbhoomi Yatra’ offers a unique opportunity for citizens to embark on an affordable, comfortable, and secure spiritual journey.”
Booking Details
Bookings for the tour are now open on the official IRCTC Tourism portal: www.irctctourism.com. For further information email bgtmumbai@irctc.com.
