IRCTC Launches “Temple Trails of Dakshin” Tourist Train, Connecting Maharashtra to South India’s Spiritual and Heritage Destinations
IRCTC Launches “Temple Trails of Dakshin” Tourist Train, Connecting Maharashtra to South India’s Spiritual and Heritage Destinations
The Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise, has unveiled an exciting new initiative for pilgrims and heritage travelers with the launch of its special Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train, “Temple Trails of Dakshin.” Scheduled to depart from Manmad on February 18, 2026, the 12-night, 13-day journey promises an immersive exploration of South India’s most revered temples and heritage landmarks. Pune is among the designated stations for boarding and deboarding, along with several other key locations across Maharashtra.
This specially designed tourist train aims to offer a seamless combination of pilgrimage and cultural tourism, covering prominent destinations including Murudeshwar, Guruvayur, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kanniyakumari, Trivandrum, Tiruchirappalli, Kanchipuram, and Mahabalipuram. Passengers can look forward to visiting iconic sites such as the Murudeshwara Shiva Temple, Guruvayur Temple, Meenakshi Amman Temple, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram.
Gaurav Jha, Group General Manager of IRCTC West Zone, Mumbai, highlighted that the Bharat Gaurav train will be a composite of AC and non-AC coaches, offering Economy Sleeper (SL), Standard 3AC, and Comfort 2AC travel classes. The train can accommodate up to 750 passengers, catering to both devotees and cultural travelers seeking a well-planned journey through southern India.
The itinerary ensures accessibility for travelers across Maharashtra, with boarding and deboarding stations at Manmad, Nashik Road, Kalyan, Lonavala, Pune, Satara, and Miraj. The tour package is designed to provide a hassle-free experience, covering train travel, accommodation in budget hotels on double, triple, or quad-sharing arrangements, all-vegetarian meals, sightseeing with AC and non-AC transfers, travel insurance, and the services of IRCTC Tour Managers throughout the journey.
Dr. A. K. Singh, Public Relations Officer of IRCTC West Zone, emphasized that health and safety protocols have been carefully incorporated to ensure a secure and comfortable experience for all passengers.
The tour is priced at ₹23,370 for Economy Sleeper, ₹36,990 for Standard 3AC, and ₹48,760 for Comfort 2AC. Bookings are available on a first-come, first-served basis through IRCTC’s official tourism portal. Additional inquiries can be made via mobile at 8287931886 or by email at [email protected]
