IRCTC To Launch “Bharat Gaurav Train – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit” Tourist Train From June 9 

Marking the coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced a special tourist train under the name ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit’, aimed at highlighting our rich historical and cultural legacy and celebrating the life and legacy of the great Maratha warrior. The journey will commence from June 9, 2025, under the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train initiative.

This 5-day special tour will take travelers to significant historical sites associated with the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and include heritage-themed programs. During the journey, tourists will experience firsthand the historic, religious, and cultural treasures of Maharashtra.

With support from the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and the government, this train is intended to extensively promote sacred and historic locations linked to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s glorious history. This is not merely a trip, but a golden opportunity to experience the grandeur of Maharashtra’s heritage, proud culture, and heroic past.

MTDC has already begun thorough preparations for this initiative in coordination with IRCTC. The arrival of this grand journey at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai will be a grand showcase of Maharashtra’s culture.

At every destination the Bharat Gaurav Train visits, tourists will be provided with detailed information about key tourism sites. To ensure a pleasant and memorable experience throughout the 5-day journey, MTDC officers will coordinate with IRCTC at every step. From the train stations to the forts of Shivaji Maharaj, tourists will experience a meaningful journey into history.

Each fort and historical location will have well-organized tourism management. Programs based on history, knowledgeable guides, and support from local Shivaji enthusiast groups will give the tour both an emotional and spiritual touch.

MTDC is fully committed to supporting the government’s vision of bringing Maharashtra’s valiant history, brave traditions, and rich culture to the world stage. This initiative will open new horizons for tourism in the state and ignite the flame of ‘Shiv Prem’ (love for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) in the hearts of every Indian.

The entire initiative is being guided by the Principal Secretary of the Tourism Department, Dr. Atul Patne (IAS).

“This journey celebrating Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s glorious history will give Maharashtra tourism a new dimension. I urge everyone to join this vibrant tour, embrace the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj, feel proud of our culture, and help pass this history on to the younger generation,” said MTDC’s Managing Director, Manojkumar Suryavanshi (IAS).

The initiative is being coordinated and managed under guidance of , tourism minister Shambhuraj Desai, state tourism minister Indraneel Naik, principal secretary tourism, Atul Patne, tourism director B N Patil, General Manager Chandrashekhar Jaiswal, Senior Manager Sanjay Dhekne, and other officials. 

According to Regional Manager Deepak Harne, MTDC is striving continuously to bring the forts of Shivaji Maharaj, Maharashtra’s rich heritage, and its folk culture to the people.

This journey is not just historical—it’s emotional and cultural. Every moment of the trip will resonate with the rousing chant: “Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji!” — Deepak Harne, Regional Manager, MTDC

Presented by IRCTC: “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit” Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train

Tour Details:

• Tour Name: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit
• Start Date: June 9, 2025
• Duration: 5 Days / 6 Days (tour concludes in the morning)
• Start & End Station: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai
• Additional Boarding/De-boarding Stations: Dadar, Thane

Tour Route:

Mumbai (CSMT) – Raigad – Pune – Shivneri – Bhimashankar – Pratapgad – Kolhapur – Panhala – Mumbai

Main Attractions:

• Raigad Fort: The site of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation and former capital.
• Lal Mahal, Pune: The childhood home of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
• Kasba Ganpati & Shivsrushti, Pune: Local deity and museum on Shivaji’s life.
• Shivneri Fort: Birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
• Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas and a sacred pilgrimage site.
• Pratapgad Fort: Site of Shivaji’s historic victory over Afzal Khan.
• Kolhapur: Home of the Mahalaxmi Temple.
• Panhala Fort: Symbol of Baji Prabhu Deshpande’s valor.

Tour Package Prices (Per Person): Multiple package categories are available based on convenience:

• Economy (Sleeper Class)
• Comfort (3AC)
• Superior (2AC)

Detailed pricing and booking are available on the IRCTC website.

Inclusions in the Package:

• Travel by Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train (SL / 3AC / 2AC)
• Accommodation in AC/Non-AC hotels
• Local transportation and tour guides at all destinations
• Pure vegetarian meals onboard and offboard
• Travel insurance and all entry fees (forts, temples, ropeways, Shivsrushti, etc.)
• Security arrangements

 Exclusions:

• Adventure activities, boating, etc.
• Room service charges
• Any personal expenses
• Any additional sightseeing not listed

Day-Wise Itinerary (Brief):

1. Day 1: Mumbai – Raigad – Pune
2. Day 2: Pune (Lal Mahal, Shivsrushti, Kasba Ganpati)
3. Day 3: Shivneri – Bhimashankar – Pune
4. Day 4: Pratapgad – Kolhapur
5. Day 5: Kolhapur (Mahalaxmi Temple) – Panhala Fort – Mumbai
6. Day 6: Arrival back in Mumbai (Tour concludes)

For Reservations & More Information:

Visit: www.irctctourism.com