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Indian Railways announces Mahalaya Paksha special train from September 9

Indian Railways announces Mahalaya Paksha special train from September 9

The Hindu4 days ago
Indian Railways has announced the launch of the Bharat Gaurav Train – Mahalaya Paksha Special Saptha Moksha Kshetra Yatra, coinciding with the auspicious fortnight of Mahalaya Paksha in September.
Operated by South Star Rail, a Union Ministry of Tourism-recognised operator, in association with Tour Times, this is the third annual special train of its kind. The tour will cover prominent spiritual destinations such as Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Dwarka, Sidhpur, Mathura, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Gaya. A key highlight of the pilgrimage is the opportunity to perform 'pinda daan' at Gaya on the occasion of Mahalaya Amavasya.
'The package commences on September 9, 2025,' said Vignesh G., Product Director, Indian Railways Bharat Gaurav Train, South Star Rail, at a press conference held on Friday. He was accompanied by Santosh, General Manager, Tour Times.
Originating from Chennai, the train will allow boarding from several stations including Gudur, Nellore, Ongole, Chirala, Guntur, Miryalguda, Nalgonda, Hyderabad, and Kazipet. The complete journey spans 15 days.
The tour package is priced at ₹45,750 for 3 AC (Comfort), ₹54,100 for 2 AC (Deluxe), and ₹69,500 for 1 AC (Luxury).
Bookings can be made by contacting 9355021516 or visiting www.tourtimes.in.
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