IRCTC Tour Package: If you have long been planning a religious pilgrimage but have had to postpone it due to time or budget constraints, there is good news for you. IRCTC, the tourism arm of Indian Railways, has launched a special religious tour package for devotees, allowing them to visit major pilgrimage sites across the country at an affordable cost. Scheduled to operate during August and September, this special journey is considered a perfect blend of spiritual devotion, a comfortable travel experience, and cost-effectiveness.

The standout feature of this tour is that it bundles amenities such as train travel, hotel accommodation, meals, local transport, and the services of a tour manager into a single package, eliminating the hassle of booking separate tickets and hotels. This package is specifically designed for devotees who wish to visit multiple prominent religious sites within a short timeframe.

During the journey, travelers will have the opportunity to visit significant pilgrimage sites associated with Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Shakti. The package is rapidly gaining popularity among families, senior citizens, and enthusiasts of religious tourism. Let us explore the full itinerary, costs, amenities, and booking details for this special 'Panch Mahatirtha Darshan Yatra' (Five Great Pilgrimage Sites Tour).

What is the IRCTC Panch Mahatirtha Darshan Yatra?

This special religious tour, operated by IRCTC, is being conducted via the 'Bharat Gaurav' tourist train. The journey covers visits to several famous pilgrimage sites and Jyotirlingas across India. Travelers receive train travel, accommodation, meals, and local sightseeing arrangements all within a single package.

How long is the tour?

This religious tour spans approximately 13 nights and 12 days. It is scheduled to operate on specific departure dates during the last week of August and throughout September. The tour commences on August 29, 2026, and concludes on September 10, 2026.

Which pilgrimage sites will be visited?

During this special tour, devotees will visit Jagannath Puri, Kamakhya, Gaya, Kashi (Varanasi), and Ayodhya. The Bharat Gaurav special train will depart from Rajkot. The train will pass through several 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 stations.

Jagannath Puri, Odisha

Arrangements have been made for pilgrims to visit major religious and historical sites during the journey. In addition to the pilgrimage, travelers will have the opportunity to visit Puri Beach and local markets. Upon reaching the Jagannath Puri destination, there will also be an opportunity to visit the world-famous Konark Sun Temple and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar.

Kamakhya Temple, Assam

After passing through Odisha, this special train will reach Guwahati, Assam, where pilgrims can visit the Shaktipeeth of Maa Kamakhya. Passengers will be given ample time for a special *darshan* (viewing/worship) and to participate in religious rituals.

Gaya, Bihar

The journey will continue to Gaya and Bodh Gaya in Bihar. Here, visits will be arranged to the Mahabodhi Temple, the giant Buddha statue, the Vishnupad Temple, and the Maa Sarvamangala Gauri Shaktipeeth.

Varanasi-Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

From Bihar, the train will travel to Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, offering the chance to visit the Baba Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Maa Annapurna Temple. Passengers will also have time to spend at the Ganga Ghats. From there, the journey will proceed to Ayodhya for visits to the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and Hanumangarhi.

What are the fares and costs?

The cost for this 12-night, 13-day religious tour is quite reasonable. The fare for the entire tour package depends on the class of travel. Booking options are available for Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC classes, each with a different fare.

Sleeper Class fare: ₹24,200

3AC fare: ₹40,100

2AC fare: ₹49,500 per person.

What is included in the package?

According to IRCTC, passengers will receive various amenities as part of the package. Such as,

Train travel (round-trip)
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, special entry tickets for certain temples and VIP darshan fees may need to be paid separately.

PC Social Media