On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the Bharat Gaurav deluxe tourist train embarked on a special journey from Nizamuddin station in India. This train, themed ‘Bharat Nepal Maitri Yatra’ (India-Nepal Friendship Journey), will take 110 tourists on a 10-day cultural and religious exploration across India and Nepal.
The journey, officially launched by India’s Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, is a testament to the Bharat Gaurav scheme, a tourism initiative spearheaded by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) in 2021-22. This scheme aims to promote theme-based tourism across India, and has already successfully organized 291 train tours focused on various religious and cultural themes, such as Ramayana, Buddhism, and Jainism.
This particular tour promises a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Tourists will delve into India’s rich cultural heritage by visiting iconic destinations like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Sitamarhi, exploring sites like the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, the Ganges Aarti, and the Janaki Temple. The journey then seamlessly transitions to Nepal, where travelers will experience the spiritual ambiance of Janakpur, explore the ancient city of Kathmandu, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Pokhara.
The train itself boasts impressive facilities, designed to ensure a comfortable and memorable journey. Passengers can choose from first, second, and third AC accommodations, indulge in culinary delights at the two fine-dining restaurants, and enjoy modern amenities like a well-equipped kitchen, shower cubicles in coaches, and even foot massagers.
Beyond the tourist attractions, this journey signifies a deeper purpose—to strengthen cultural ties and promote people-to-people connections between India and Nepal. The itinerary is meticulously crafted to highlight the shared cultural heritage and religious significance between the two nations, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation.
This initiative not only brings together tourists and promotes tourism but also acts as a bridge between cultures, strengthening the bonds of friendship and understanding between India and its neighboring nation, Nepal.
