IRCTC launches luxury tour through 5 picturesque northeastern states, find details here

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is set to launch a luxury 15-day train journey through five northeastern states of India. The “North East Discovery” tour is scheduled to begin on 22 April 2025 from Delhi, aboard the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train.

This extensive itinerary is aligned with the Government of India’s “Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat” and “Dekho Apna Desh” initiatives, which aim to promote domestic tourism. The journey is expected to cover around 5,800 kilometres, taking travellers through Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Nagaland, and Meghalaya.

As per details shared by IRCTC, passengers will board the train from multiple stations, including Delhi, Ghaziabad, Aligarh, Tundla, Etawah, and Kanpur. The first stop will be Guwahati, where travellers will visit prominent sites such as the Kamakhya Temple and Umananda Temple and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

The train will then proceed to Naharlagun, which lies approximately 30 kilometres from Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. Following this, the tour includes a visit to Sivasagar in Assam—known for its Ahom heritage—where travellers will explore landmarks such as the Sivadol temple, Talatal Ghar, and Rang Ghar.

Further highlights include a stop in Jorhat, renowned for its tea gardens, and an overnight stay near Kaziranga for a jungle safari at Kaziranga National Park. From Furkating Railway Station, the journey continues into Tripura, with deboarding at Kumarghat for visits to Unakoti, Agartala, and several historic sites, including Ujjayanta Palace, Neermahal, and the Tripura Sundari Mandir.

In Nagaland, the train halts at Dimapur, followed by a scenic train ride between Badarpur and Lumding Junction. From there, travellers will be transported by road to Kohima for cultural immersion experiences at locations such as Khonoma village.

The Meghalaya leg of the tour includes a return to Guwahati and a road journey to Shillong, with a visit to Umiam Lake en route. Key attractions in this segment include Cherrapunji, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, and the Mawsmai Caves.

The Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train is said to feature modern amenities such as fine dining restaurants, a flameless kitchen, sensor-based washrooms, shower cubicles, foot massagers, a mini library, CCTV surveillance, electronic safes, and onboard security personnel.

Accommodation is offered across multiple categories, with all-inclusive prices starting at ₹1,16,905 for AC III (Comfort), ₹1,29,915 for AC II (Deluxe), ₹1,49,815 for AC I (Cabin), and ₹1,67,845 for AC I (Coupe), per person. The package is understood to cover train travel, air-conditioned hotel stays, vegetarian meals, bus transfers, sightseeing, travel insurance, and guided tours.

Bookings can be made via the IRCTC website or through regional offices, with early reservations encouraged due to limited availability.