Bengaluru: South Star Rail, a rail service under the Bharat Gaurav Train by the Indian Railways, has begun operating trains to the Kashmir Valley. The train, originating from Coimbatore, passes through Yelahanka in Bengaluru. The ticket booking has begun for this summer holiday special train.
The Coimbatore-based South Star Rail, is registered under M and C Property Private Limited. It began its maiden run under the Bharat Gaurav Scheme in June 2022, from Coimbatore to Shirdi in Maharashtra. Under the Bharat Gaurav, the railways allow private operators or service providers to lease trains from the Indian Railways to conduct a theme-based circuit to promote tourism packages. The lessee can operate trains on any circuit of their choice. The Ministry of Railways says the service is meant to promote the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour is managed by Travel Times India Ltd. The tour operators recognised by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, have operated nearly 600 + tourist trains.
The South Star Rail’s Kashmir package will commence on May 11, 2023. The train originates from Coimbatore. Before reaching the final destination, passengers can board in any of these railway stations: Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Hosur, Yelahanka, Perambur, Vijayawada, and Warangal. The total duration of the tour package is 12 days.
There are many attractions for tourists on this train service, including offering special facilities to senior citizens, a LTC facility for government employees, and all categories of AC and non-AC coaches. Unlimited South Indian meals onboard and offboard will be served. It also provides sightseeing and transfers tour managers. CCTV cameras have been installed for security purposes. Travellers may leave their luggage in lockers in the coaches themselves while going for sightseeing or a night stay. Train coordinators and managers are available to help tourists. A doctor is on board to attend to emergencies.
The ticket price covers the cost of the train fare, insurance, bed kit, rooms, all meals and beverages, sightseeing, transfers and tour managers who would accompany tourists throughout the tour.
PACKAGE PRICES BEGIN AT: 3AC Rs.41950/-; 2AC Rs.54780/-; 1AC Rs.64990/-
Tickets booking can be done by 9015 500 200 and for online booking www.railtourism.com
