IRCTC announces 11-day South India pilgrimage tour

Ahmedabad: The IRCTC has announced an 11-day South India tour under the Bharat Gaurav Train for the summer vacation season, departing from Rajkot on May 12 to May 21.The pilgrimage package will cover major religious and tourist destinations, including Tirupati Balaji, Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, Meenakshi Temple, Kanyakumari and Mallikarjun Jyotirlinga.Passengers can board the train from Rajkot, Ahmedabad route stations and several other stops, including Surendranagar, Viramgam, Sabarmati, Nadiad, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Vapi, Vasai Road, Kalyan, Pune and Solapur.Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation said the package includes train travel, pure vegetarian meals served at seats from a kitchen car, sightseeing by bus, budget hotel accommodation, tour escort and accident insurance. The train will also feature an infotainment system, CCTV cameras and private security guards in every coach.Three travel categories have been finalized for the journey — Economy Class (Sleeper) priced at Rs 21,525, Comfort Class (3AC) at Rs 39,105, and Comfort Class (2AC) at Rs 48,185. IRCTC has also extended the leave travel concession (LTC) facility for passengers opting for the tour. Additionally, IRCTC said travellers will have the option to book the package through easy monthly instalments (EMIs). While making the reservation, customers can choose to pay the full amount upfront or opt for the EMI facility. Bookings for the tour can be made through the official IRCTC Tourism website.