Pilgrimage on Wheels
The Indian Railways, through its tourism arm IRCTC, has launched an exceptional 'Divine East Temple Tour' package, operating aboard the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe
Tourist Train. This unique offering aims to simplify pilgrimages, a cornerstone of Indian culture and spirituality, by providing a comfortable and comprehensive journey. For those who believe in visiting places of religious significance at least once in their lifetime, this tour presents an ideal opportunity. The train is set to depart from Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station on March 09, 2026, marking the beginning of an enriching experience that blends cultural exploration with spiritual rejuvenation. The tour is designed to not only facilitate religious journeys but also to contribute to the local economies along its route, supporting local traders.
Sacred Destinations Explored
This spiritually charged 10-day tour, commencing from Delhi, will guide travelers through a constellation of significant religious and cultural hubs. The itinerary includes the ancient city of Varanasi, the vibrant metropolis of Kolkata, the sacred shores of Gangasagar, the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri, the historical sites of Bhubaneswar, the architectural marvel of Konark, the scenic Chilika Lake, and the divine Baidyanath Dham. The 'Divine East Temple Tour' promises an unforgettable exploration of India's rich heritage, focusing on its spiritual landmarks, historical sites, and picturesque beaches. A highlight of the journey is the opportunity for a holy dip at Gangasagar, a deeply auspicious ritual for many.
Varanasi to Kolkata
The spiritual and cultural odyssey begins with a visit to Varanasi, where travelers will experience the divine aura of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, and witness the captivating Ganga Aarti. Following this spiritual immersion, the train proceeds to Kolkata, the cultural capital of India. Here, the tour encompasses iconic landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and other significant city attractions. Devotees will have the chance to visit prominent temples such as Kali Ghat, a Shakti Peeth, and the Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir, further deepening the spiritual quotient of the journey.
Gangasagar and Odisha's Treasures
A pivotal attraction of this tour is a day excursion to the sacred shores of Gangasagar. This segment includes the highly anticipated holy dip at the Sagar Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga River and the Bay of Bengal, alongside a darshan at the Kapil Muni Temple. Subsequently, the journey continues to Puri, offering pilgrims the chance to seek blessings at the revered Shri Jagannath Temple. The tour then delves into Odisha's rich heritage with visits to Bhubaneswar, the Dhauli Shanti Stupa, the ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, and the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Baidyanath Dham and Return
The final spiritual destination on this extensive itinerary is Baidyanath Dham, located in Deoghar. This site is renowned as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, providing a powerful conclusion to the pilgrimage aspect of the tour. After absorbing the divine energies of Baidyanath Dham, the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train will commence its return journey, bringing travelers back to Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station. Participants are expected to return with a treasure trove of spiritual experiences, cultural insights, and cherished memories from this meticulously planned temple tour.
