IRCTC Launches “Divine East Temple Tour” Rail Circuit for Eastern India

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC), a Navratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India, has launched a new rail-based tourism circuit titled “Divine East Temple Tour”. The tour will be operated on the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train, further strengthening IRCTC’s focus on curated religious and heritage tourism.

The thoughtfully designed 10-day journey offers devotees and leisure travellers an opportunity to explore some of the most revered pilgrimage destinations and culturally significant heritage sites across Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand.

Journey Route and Key Destinations

Starting Point and Overall Route

The journey will begin from Delhi Safdarjung and will cover Varanasi, Kolkata, Gangasagar, Puri, Bhubaneswar, Konark, Chilika and Baidyanath Dham, before returning to Delhi Safdarjung.

The tour will conclude on 18th March 2026, marking the end of a spiritually enriching rail journey.

Spiritual Highlights of the Divine East Temple Tour

Varanasi: Kashi Vishwanath and Ganga Aarti

The first major spiritual halt is Varanasi, where passengers will visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Jyotirlinga) and witness the iconic Ganga Aarti, one of the most revered rituals in India.

Kolkata and Gangasagar: Shakti Peeths and Sacred Shores

The train then proceeds to Kolkata, often referred to as the cultural capital of India. Key attractions include:

• Victoria Memorial and city landmarks

• Kali Ghat (Shakti Peeth)

• Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir

A day excursion to Gangasagar follows, featuring a holy dip at the Sagar Sangam and darshan at Kapil Muni Temple, considered one of the most significant pilgrimage experiences of the tour.

Odisha Circuit: Puri, Bhubaneswar and Konark

The journey continues to Puri, offering darshan at the Shri Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

The Odisha circuit also includes visits to:

• Bhubaneswar

• Dhauli Shanti Stupa

• Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

• Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Chilika, known for its natural beauty

Baidyanath Dham: Final Jyotirlinga Darshan

The final spiritual destination is Baidyanath Dham (Deoghar) in Jharkhand, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, before the train returns to Delhi.

Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train: Onboard Experience

Modern Amenities and Comfort

The Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Tourist Train is equipped with:

• Well-appointed cabins in AC I, AC II and AC III categories

• Onboard restaurants serving hygienic vegetarian meals

• Enhanced safety and security systems

• Dedicated IRCTC tour managers for seamless coordination

Tour Package Price and Inclusions

Fare Details (Per Person)

• Rs. 1,06,940/- for 1AC

• Rs. 98,925/- for 2AC

• Rs. 79,285/- for 3AC

What the Package Covers

The all-inclusive package includes:

• Train journey in selected AC class

• Accommodation in AC hotels

• All meals (VEG ONLY)

• All transfers and sightseeing in AC vehicles

• Travel insurance

• Services of IRCTC tour managers

Focus on Religious and Leisure Tourism

IRCTC stated that the Divine East Temple Tour is designed as a perfect blend of religious and leisure tourism, aimed at delivering a seamless, safe and enriching travel experience for passengers.

Booking Details

Bookings for the Divine East Temple Tour are open through:

• IRCTC’s official tourism portal

• Authorized IRCTC tourism offices across India

Why This Tour Matters

With the growing demand for organized pilgrimage travel, IRCTC’s Bharat Gaurav train circuits continue to play a key role in promoting domestic religious tourism, offering comfort, convenience and curated itineraries for travellers across India.