Indian Railways has unveiled two distinct tour packages under its Bharat Gaurav scheme. The Adi Amavasya Special Shakthi Peeth Yatra and the Eastern Delights itinerary offer culturally immersive and spiritually enriching experiences, backed by a comprehensive hospitality framework and government subsidies.
Set to commence on July 16, 2025, the 14-day Adi Amavasya Special Shakthi Peeth Yatra is crafted to cater to pilgrims seeking deeper spiritual engagement. The itinerary spans some of the most revered Shakti Peeths and pilgrimage sites, including Kamakhya, Puri, Kolkata, Gaya, Kashi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj. A major highlight is the Adi Amavasya pinda daan ceremony in Gaya—a rare and significant ritual in the Hindu tradition, observed annually on the new moon of the lunar calendar.Departing from key cities across Tamil Nadu—such as Madurai, Dindigul, Palani, Pollachi, Erode, Salem, and Perambur—the tour integrates logistical ease with spiritual fulfilment, making it highly accessible to southern pilgrims.
On the other hand, the Eastern Delights tour promises a more leisurely, scenic exploration through India’s eastern landscapes. While the detailed itinerary is awaited, the destinations confirmed include Gangtok, Darjeeling, Bhubaneswar, Konark, and Kolkata—a line-up offering a diverse mix of hill station charm, heritage temples, colonial architecture, and natural beauty. This package is tailored for travellers seeking cultural depth, cooler climates, and a slower travel pace across the East.What elevates both packages is their operational backbone—a customised tourist train fitted with extensive amenities. These include public address systems, onboard and offboard meals, hotel stays, travel insurance, tour managers, and coach-level security. Such full-service arrangements ensure a seamless experience, mirroring premium domestic travel standards.
Further incentivising participation, Indian Railways is offering a 33% subsidy on the tour packages under the Bharat Gaurav scheme. The Adi Amavasya Yatra’s pricing spans several categories—from SL (Budget) at ₹27,000 to 1 AC (Luxury) at ₹59,750. Rates for the Eastern Delights package are expected to be announced shortly, positioning it as an accessible entry point for middle-income families and solo travellers alike.The rollout of these curated rail journeys aligns with India’s broader push to decentralise tourism from overburdened hotspots and channel interest towards culturally rich but under-visited regions. The model also dovetails with the government’s efforts to promote eco-conscious travel by encouraging rail over air and road transport, which typically carry higher carbon footprints.
By combining heritage, faith, and nature within one platform, these tour packages symbolise a shift in how Indian Railways is rebranding itself—from a mere transport provider to a cultural conduit. As domestic tourism rebounds post-pandemic, such value-driven initiatives can play a pivotal role in restoring trust in large-scale travel and opening up the hinterlands for sustainable tourism.
Travel bookings are currently open through the official tourism partner website, or via the designated helpline number. With limited seats, Indian Railways has urged interested passengers to confirm early to secure their place in what promises to be an unforgettable journey.
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