An All-Inclusive Heritage Journey
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched a comprehensive six-day train tour designed to showcase the glorious legacy of Maharashtra. This tour, operated via the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train, is crafted as an all-inclusive
experience, bundling train travel, accommodation, meals, and local transport into one seamless package. The journey begins from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and is designed for travellers who wish to immerse themselves in the region's history without the hassle of planning individual logistics. The package aims to provide a culturally enriching experience, focusing on sites associated with the Maratha empire and other significant historical landmarks.
Tracing the Footsteps of History
The itinerary is packed with iconic forts and sacred destinations. On the first day, travellers depart from Mumbai and head towards Raigad Fort, the historic capital where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was coronated. From there, the tour proceeds to Pune for an overnight stay. The second day in Pune includes visits to the historic Lal Mahal and the Kasba Ganpati temple, followed by an immersive experience at Shivsrushti, a theme park dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj's life. The following days cover significant sites like Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of the Maratha warrior, and Pratapgad Fort, the famous battle site. The tour also includes spiritual stops at Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur, and Panhala Fort.
Package Costs and Tiers
To cater to different budgets, IRCTC offers multiple travel classes. The package pricing generally starts from around ₹13,155 per person for the Economy (Sleeper Class) option. For those seeking more comfort, the Comfort (3AC) tier is priced at approximately ₹19,840, while the Superior (2AC) option costs around ₹27,365 per person. These prices are typically all-inclusive, covering the entire journey from start to finish. It's a structured pricing model that ensures travellers can choose a level of comfort that suits their preference without worrying about hidden costs during the trip.
What the Tour Includes
The key advantage of this IRCTC package is its comprehensive nature. The cost includes train travel in the chosen class for the entire six-day circuit. Upon arrival at destinations, travellers are provided with comfortable hotel accommodations for overnight stays, such as in Pune and Kolhapur. All vegetarian meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are covered throughout the journey. For local sightseeing, the package includes travel in air-conditioned buses to ensure comfort between sites. Furthermore, the tour provides travel insurance for all passengers and the assistance of experienced tour escorts to guide travellers and manage the itinerary.
How to Book Your Trip
Booking this heritage tour is straightforward and can be done directly through IRCTC's official tourism website. Prospective travellers can browse the site for available dates and different package tiers like 'Bharat Gaurav' tours. The website provides detailed itineraries, inclusions, and terms and conditions for each tour. Bookings can be made online by selecting the desired package, entering passenger details, and completing the payment. For any specific queries or for assistance with booking, travellers can also contact IRCTC's regional offices or dedicated tourism contact numbers often listed on their website.
