Mangaluru: Indian Railways, South Star Rail, India’s first public-private partnership tourist train under Bharat Gaurav Train of the Indian Railways, and Tour Times have announced a Summer Special Tourist Train to Northeast India. The journey will commence on April 25, offering three different tour packages within a single train journey, along with Visakhapatnam and Kolkata, for 14 days, said South Star Rail and Tour Times director Vignesh.He told reporters on Wednesday, that since there is a huge demand from the people of Mangaluru, passengers travelling from Mangaluru will be provided with complimentary transfers to Palakkad, Ottapalam, or Thrissur, based on their preference. This specially designed tourist train covers some of the most scenic and culturally significant destinations in the country. The first package includes visits to Gangtok and Darjeeling. The second package covers the beautiful Northeastern destinations of Guwahati, Shillong, Cherrapunji, Mawlynnong, and Dawki. The third package is an international tour to Bhutan, covering Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, and Chele La Pass. He said that so far South Star Rail and Tour Times have already successfully operated 53 departures, covering more than 2.9 lakh rail kilometres and providing travel facilities for 24,402 pilgrims and tourists. The train will depart from Madurai, with convenient boarding points in Kerala. The tour offers four travel classes, including sleeper, third AC, second AC, and first AC, For the Darjeeling & Gangtok package, the fares are Rs 45,950 (sleeper), Rs 53,300 (third AC), Rs 66,500 (second AC), and Rs 72,100 (first AC). The Northeastern Splendours package is priced at Rs 59,350, Rs 64,350, Rs 74,450, and Rs 79,950 respectively, across the same classes. Meanwhile, the Bhutan Delights package costs Rs 76,950 (sleeper), Rs 83,500 (third AC), Rs 94,950 (second AC), and Rs 97,900 (first AC). The special tourist train is equipped with modern amenities, including a public announcement and entertainment system, onboard tour managers, dedicated coach security, and unlimited South Indian meals served both onboard and off-board. The train composition includes a first AC coach, three second AC, five third AC, two sleeper class coaches, and a pantry car, with a total capacity of 650 passengers. The package covers hotel stays, sightseeing, transfers, and travel insurance, ensuring a comfortable journey. Additionally, travellers are eligible for LTC/LFC benefits. Unlike regular trains, this special tourist train is not available for booking on the IRCTC website. Reservations can only be made by contacting Tour Times directly at 7305 85 85 85 or by visiting www.tourtimes.in, he said.
