IRCTC Launches Exclusive Travel Packages for Pilgrims and Tourists

IRCTC's New Pilgrimage and Tour Packages

IRCTC, a subsidiary of Indian Railways known for its catering services on approximately 300 trains, including premium ones like Rajdhani, Duronto, and Shatabdi, is now offering specialized travel packages. The "Dakshin Bharat Darshan Yatra" and "Jyotirling Darshan Yatra" are two such packages aimed at devout travelers wishing to visit sacred sites.

Dakshin Bharat Darshan Yatra

The Dakshin Bharat Darshan Yatra, which translates to "Southern India Travel," is a tour that takes passengers through the southern states of India, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. This package includes visits to prominent destinations such as Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari, and Madurai in Tamil Nadu, as well as Shirdi Sai Dham in Maharashtra. The journey commences from Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh.

Jyotirling Darshan Yatra

The Jyotirling Darshan Yatra, meaning "auspicious Phallus Travel," is a spiritual journey that covers the seven Jyotirlingas, sacred representations of Lord Shiva, scattered across India. This pilgrimage includes stops at Bheemashankar in Maharashtra, Mahakaleshwar in Madhya Pradesh, Nageshwar in Gujarat, Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh, and Tryambakareshwar in Maharashtra. The tour is set to begin on April 18th, 2012.

Package Inclusions and Pricing

Both the Dakshin Bharat Yatra and Jyotirling Darshan Yatra packages offer an all-inclusive experience. For a fee of Rs. 6,156 per passenger for the Dakshin Bharat Yatra and Rs. 6,256 per person for the Jyotirling Darshan Yatra, travelers will receive:

• Train tickets for travel
• Comfortable accommodation
• Delicious meals throughout the journey
• Bus ticket bookings for local travel
• Travel insurance for each passenger

Planning in advance is crucial for a hassle-free tour, and IRCTC ensures that all details of the tour packages, including inclusions, are clearly provided for the convenience of passengers.

Booking Information and Customer Support

Travelers interested in these IRCTC packages can book their tickets through the official IRCTC website or by visiting the Indian Railways Reservation counter at Platform number one of the Kanpur Central (CNB) railway station. For additional information and assistance, passengers can reach out to the IRCTC Customer Care Number.

IRCTC is also operating a dedicated tourism website, railtourismindia.com, where travelers can explore and book various travel packages, further promoting tourism in India.

Expanding Horizons in Indian Tourism

IRCTC's initiative to offer travel packages is part of a broader strategy to boost tourism in India. By providing comprehensive travel solutions, IRCTC is making it easier for tourists and pilgrims to explore the country's diverse cultural and spiritual heritage. These packages not only cater to the needs of travelers but also contribute to the growth of the tourism sector in India.

Interesting Stats and Facts

While IRCTC's travel packages are gaining popularity, there are some interesting statistics and trends in Indian tourism that are often overlooked:

• According to the Ministry of Tourism, domestic tourism in India saw a significant increase, with the number of domestic tourist visits to all states and Union Territories reaching 2,321 million in 2019, a growth of 23.9% over 2018. Ministry of Tourism
• Religious tourism, in particular, is a major contributor to this growth, with destinations like Varanasi, Tirupati, and Shirdi experiencing a high influx of pilgrims annually.
• The Indian government's "Dekho Apna Desh" initiative encourages citizens to travel within the country and discover its rich tapestry of culture and history, further boosting domestic tourism.

By offering curated travel experiences, IRCTC is not only simplifying the journey for millions of travelers but also playing a pivotal role in the promotion of domestic tourism in India.