Indian Railways, through IRCTC, has announced the launch of its first ever international Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train to Nepal. Named the Pashupatinath Nepal Darshan Yatra, the special tourist train is scheduled to depart from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, on June 12, 2026. The 9 night, 10 day journey marks a significant milestone for the Bharat Gaurav tourism initiative, as it is the first time the semi luxury train service is extending beyond India borders. The specially curated travel package combines spirituality, culture, sightseeing, wildlife experiences, and comfortable rail travel into a single all inclusive tour. Designed primarily for Indian tourists, the journey covers some of Nepal most iconic destinations, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, and the famous Manakamana Temple. With accommodation, meals, transportation, sightseeing, and travel insurance included, the package aims to provide a seamless travel experience.
First International Journey Under the Bharat Gaurav Scheme
The launch of the Nepal bound Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train represents an important expansion of India rail based tourism initiatives. Until now, Bharat Gaurav trains primarily operated within India, covering religious, heritage, and cultural circuits. The Nepal tour introduces an international dimension to the scheme while maintaining its focus on pilgrimage and tourism. The package combines rail travel with road transportation and guided tours, ensuring passengers can comfortably visit multiple destinations during the journey. For travelers interested in both spirituality and tourism, the itinerary offers a balanced combination of religious sites, natural attractions, and cultural landmarks.
Complete Itinerary and Major Destinations
One of the biggest attractions of the tour is its carefully planned route covering Nepal most popular destinations.
| Destination | Key Attraction |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu | Pashupatinath Temple (Lord Shiva pilgrimage site) |
| Pokhara | Scenic lakeside tourism destination |
| Chitwan National Park | Guided jeep safari for rhinos, elephants, Bengal tigers |
| Manakamana Temple | Hilltop pilgrimage site accessible by ropeway |
The Kathmandu segment forms the spiritual foundation of the entire tour and is expected to be one of the highlights for pilgrims. Pokhara offers a different experience compared to the religious focus of Kathmandu, combining pilgrimage with leisure tourism. The Chitwan National Park segment adds an adventure and nature component to the overall travel package. The Manakamana Temple visit, accessible through a scenic ropeway ride, is expected to be a memorable part of the tour.
Deluxe Tourist Train Features and Amenities
IRCTC has designed the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train to provide a comfortable travel experience throughout the journey. The special train consists of 14 coaches with seating capacity ranging from approximately 268 to 600 passengers depending on configuration and occupancy arrangements.
Multiple Travel Classes
Passengers can choose from three accommodation categories:
- Third AC (Comfort)
- Second AC (Deluxe)
- First AC (Superior)
These options allow travelers to select accommodations according to their preferences and budget.
Dedicated Dining Facilities
The train includes two restaurant coaches that serve fresh vegetarian meals throughout the journey. A modern flameless kitchen car supports onboard meal preparation, ensuring passengers receive regular dining services during travel. The inclusion of meals within the package simplifies the overall travel experience.
Modern Passenger Amenities
Several passenger focused facilities have been incorporated into the train, including:
- Shower cubicles
- Sensor based washrooms
- Foot massagers
- Infotainment systems
- Electronic safes
Enhanced Security Arrangements
Passenger safety remains an important part of the tour package. Security measures include CCTV surveillance systems, dedicated onboard security personnel, and continuous monitoring during the journey.
Boarding Stations Across Madhya Pradesh
Passengers do not need to travel exclusively to Indore to join the tour. IRCTC has provided multiple boarding points across Madhya Pradesh, making the package accessible to travelers from different regions.
| Boarding Stations |
|---|
| Indore |
| Ujjain |
| Shujalpur |
| Sehore |
| Rani Kamalapati (Bhopal) |
| Itarsi |
| Narsingpur |
| Jabalpur |
| Katni |
| Satna |
All Inclusive Package Benefits
According to the provided information, the fare includes:
- Rail travel
- Hotel accommodation
- Vegetarian meals
- Local transfers in AC buses
- Sightseeing arrangements
- Tour escorts
- Travel insurance
By bundling all major travel expenses into a single package, travelers can focus on the journey rather than individual bookings and logistics.
NAMO Airport Terminal in Daman
Ticket Prices for Different Categories
Passengers can choose from three fare categories based on accommodation preferences.
| Category | Fare Per Person |
|---|---|
| Third AC (Comfort) | ₹62,710 |
| Second AC (Deluxe) | ₹76,550 |
| First AC (Superior) | ₹90,400 |
The pricing reflects the varying levels of comfort and accommodation offered across the three travel classes.
Travel Rules and Entry Requirements
One of the major advantages of this Nepal tour is the relatively simple travel process for Indian citizens.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa | Visa free for Indian citizens (general tourism) |
| Identity documents | Passport or Voter ID Card |
| Currency | Indian Rupees accepted in major tourist areas |
These facilities reduce the need for extensive currency exchange arrangements and simplify transactions during the trip.
Why This Train Could Become Popular
The Nepal Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train combines several travel interests into a single package.
- Spiritual tourism: Inclusion of Pashupatinath Temple and Manakamana Temple attracts pilgrims
- Nature and wildlife tourism: Pokhara and Chitwan National Park appeal to scenic beauty and wildlife enthusiasts
- Hassle free planning: Accommodation, meals, transportation, sightseeing, and insurance are included
- Comfortable travel experience: Modern train amenities and organized tour management
Conclusion
The launch of the Pashupatinath Nepal Darshan Yatra marks a historic milestone for Indian Railways and IRCTC as the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train makes its first international journey. Scheduled to depart from Indore on June 12, 2026, the 9 night and 10 day package offers travelers an opportunity to explore Nepal spiritual, cultural, scenic, and wildlife attractions through a single organized tour. Covering Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, and Manakamana Temple, the all inclusive package combines religious tourism with sightseeing and comfort. With multiple boarding stations, modern onboard amenities, visa free travel arrangements, and comprehensive travel services, the train aims to provide a convenient option for Indian tourists looking to experience Nepal in a structured and comfortable manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When does the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train to Nepal depart from Indore
A1. The Pashupatinath Nepal Darshan Yatra is scheduled to depart from Indore on June 12, 2026.
Q2. What is the duration of the Nepal tour package
A2. The package is a 9 night, 10 day journey covering multiple destinations including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, and Manakamana Temple.
Q3. What are the ticket prices for different travel classes
A3. Third AC fare is ₹62,710 per person, Second AC is ₹76,550, and First AC is ₹90,400.
Q4. Do Indian citizens need a visa for this Nepal tour
A4. No, India and Nepal maintain a visa free travel arrangement for general tourism purposes. Indian citizens need a valid passport or Voter ID Card.
Q5. What is included in the all inclusive package fare
A5. The fare includes rail travel, hotel accommodation, vegetarian meals, local transfers in AC buses, sightseeing arrangements, tour escorts, and travel insurance.