Affordable IRCTC Religious Tour Package for Pilgrims
IRCTC Launches Special Religious Tour Package
IRCTC Tour Package: If you've been contemplating a spiritual pilgrimage but have faced delays due to budget or time issues, there's exciting news. The tourism division of Indian Railways, IRCTC, has introduced a unique religious tour package aimed at devotees, enabling them to explore significant pilgrimage locations across India at a budget-friendly price. This special journey is set to take place in August and September, offering a harmonious mix of spiritual engagement, comfortable travel, and affordability.
A key highlight of this tour is its comprehensive package that includes train travel, hotel stays, meals, local transportation, and a tour manager's services, simplifying the process of separate bookings. This package is tailored for those who wish to visit multiple key religious sites within a limited timeframe.
Travelers will have the chance to explore important pilgrimage locations linked to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Shakti. The package is quickly becoming popular among families, seniors, and religious tourism enthusiasts. Let's delve into the complete itinerary, pricing, amenities, and booking information for the 'Panch Mahatirtha Darshan Yatra' (Five Great Pilgrimage Sites Tour).
Overview of the IRCTC Panch Mahatirtha Darshan Yatra
This unique religious tour, managed by IRCTC, operates via the 'Bharat Gaurav' tourist train. The journey encompasses visits to several renowned pilgrimage sites and Jyotirlingas throughout India. Travelers benefit from a package that includes train travel, lodging, meals, and local sightseeing arrangements.
Duration of the Tour
This religious journey lasts approximately 13 nights and 12 days, with specific departure dates in the last week of August and throughout September. The tour kicks off on August 29, 2026, and wraps up on September 10, 2026.
Pilgrimage Sites Included in the Tour
During this special tour, participants will visit Jagannath Puri, Kamakhya, Gaya, Kashi (Varanasi), and Ayodhya. The Bharat Gaurav special train will depart from Rajkot, making stops at various stations including Surendranagar, Viramgam, Sabarmati Junction, Nadiad, Anand, Chhayapuri, Godhra, Dahod, Ratlam, Ujjain, and Sant Hirdaram Nagar. Passengers can board the train at any of these locations.
Highlights of Each Pilgrimage Site
Jagannath Puri, Odisha: Pilgrims will have the chance to visit significant religious and historical sites during the journey. Besides the pilgrimage, travelers can explore Puri Beach and local markets. Upon arrival in Jagannath Puri, there will also be opportunities to visit the renowned Konark Sun Temple and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar.
Kamakhya Temple, Assam: After Odisha, the train will reach Guwahati, Assam, where pilgrims can visit the Shaktipeeth of Maa Kamakhya. Ample time will be provided for special *darshan* (viewing/worship) and participation in religious rituals.
Gaya, Bihar: The journey continues to Gaya and Bodh Gaya in Bihar, where visits to the Mahabodhi Temple, the giant Buddha statue, the Vishnupad Temple, and the Maa Sarvamangala Gauri Shaktipeeth will be arranged.
Varanasi-Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh: From Bihar, the train will head to Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, allowing visits to the Baba Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Maa Annapurna Temple. Passengers will also have time to enjoy the Ganga Ghats. The journey will then proceed to Ayodhya for visits to the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and Hanumangarhi.
Tour Costs and Fares
The pricing for this 12-night, 13-day religious tour is quite affordable. The total fare varies based on the class of travel selected. Options are available for Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC classes, each with distinct pricing.
Sleeper Class fare: ₹24,200
3AC fare: ₹40,100
2AC fare: ₹49,500 per person.
Package Inclusions
According to IRCTC, the package includes various amenities such as:
Round-trip train travel
Accommodation in hotels or dharamshalas
Pure vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Daily water bottle
Local sightseeing by bus
Travel insurance
Security arrangements
Services of a tour manager and guide
Onboard assistance services
However, please note that special entry tickets for certain temples and VIP darshan fees may need to be paid separately.