Religious tourism, predominantly focused on Hindu sites, has seen a rise in popularity among Indians eager to visit temples and pilgrimage destinations across the country. To meet this increasing demand, Indian Railways continues to launch new trains specifically catering to spiritual travellers. Building on this momentum, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has unveiled a special religious tourism package as part of the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train initiative. Scheduled from November 7 to 16, 2025, the 9-night, 10-day yatra takes travellers through South India’s temples and spiritual centres, offering a pilgrimage journey.
The spiritual odyssey begins in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, where the famed Venkateswara Swamy Temple welcomes thousands of pilgrims seeking blessings. Close by, the serene Goddess Padmavati Temple offers a peaceful retreat with its elegant architecture.
From there, the journey continues to Rameswaram, a revered Char Dham destination. Pilgrims visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple, renowned for its vast corridors and sacred significance. The nearby Dhanushkodi, a haunting coastal ghost town.
Next, the train travels to Madurai in Tamil Nadu. Here, the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple enchants visitors with its towering gopurams and intricately carved sculptures, standing as a timeless symbol of Dravidian architectural brilliance.
The pilgrimage then reaches Kanyakumari, where the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Gandhi Mandapam stand against the backdrop of the rare confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean. The nearby Kanyakumari Temple, known for its spiritual aura and stunning seaside views, offers a memorable experience.
The final destination is Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala’s vibrant capital. Devotees pay homage at the grand Padmanabhaswamy Temple, famed for its architectural splendor and mysterious treasures. The journey ends on a serene note at Kovalam Beach, with its palm-lined shores and breathtaking sunsets providing the perfect setting for reflection and relaxation after a soulful pilgrimage.
This spiritual journey spans 9 nights and 10 days, commencing on November 7, 2025, and concluding on November 16, 2025. The pilgrimage begins in Tirupati and offers a planned itinerary that balances temple visits, travel time, and moments for rest and reflection.
IRCTC offers this yatra with pricing options to suit various budgets. Adult fares range from INR 18,040 for Sleeper Class to INR 40,240 for 2AC, while children (ages 5-11) pay slightly reduced rates. The package includes train travel, comfortable accommodation in verified budget hotels (with both AC and non-AC options), pure vegetarian meals, local transfers, and sightseeing tours. Transportation for excursions is provided via AC or non-AC buses, depending on weather and availability. Additional facilities include wash and change areas at select stops, ensuring convenience throughout the journey. Bookings can be made directly through the IRCTC Tourism website or authorised regional offices.
Which temples are included in the Bharat Gaurav train itinerary?
The journey covers major temples including Venkateswara Swamy Temple (Tirupati), Ramanathaswamy Temple (Rameswaram), Meenakshi Amman Temple (Madurai), Kanyakumari Temple, and Padmanabhaswamy Temple (Thiruvananthapuram).
How can I book tickets for the Bharat Gaurav religious train tour?
Bookings can be made directly through the IRCTC Tourism website or via authorised IRCTC regional offices.
What accommodations are provided during the pilgrimage?
Travellers stay in verified budget hotels with AC and non-AC options, and enjoy pure vegetarian meals throughout the trip.
Is the pilgrimage suitable for children and senior citizens?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to balance travel and rest, making it suitable for devotees of all ages, including children and seniors.
