North East Discovery Train of IRCTC to Feature Tripura’s Iconic Heritage Sites from April 22 exploring state’s hidden gems like Unakoti, Ujjayanta Palace & Neermahal .
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, is all set to launch its much-anticipated ‘North East Discovery’ tour on April 22, 2025, according to an IRCTC statement. The journey, to be conducted aboard the deluxe Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train, promises to provide a comprehensive and enriching travel experience across several Northeastern states, including Tripura, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Meghalaya. The tour aims to highlight the cultural, spiritual, natural, and historical treasures of India’s North East.
This 15-day (14 nights/15 days) expedition will cover approximately 5,800 kilometers and is being rolled out after two previous successful tours to the Northeastern region. The train will begin its journey from the Safdarjung Railway Station in Delhi and offer boarding/deboarding facilities at other major stations including Ghaziabad, Aligarh, Tundla, Etawah, Kanpur, Lucknow, and Varanasi. With an accommodation capacity of 156 passengers, the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train offers AC I (coupe and cabin), AC II, and AC III tier coaches with all modern amenities and a fully inclusive travel package.
Travel Itinerary and Destinations
The journey begins with the train’s first halt at Guwahati in Assam. Tourists will visit the revered Kamakhya Temple, followed by the Umananda Temple, and a picturesque sunset cruise along the mighty Brahmaputra River. From Guwahati, the train continues overnight to Naharlagun Railway Station in Arunachal Pradesh, from where tourists will proceed to the state capital Itanagar for local sightseeing.
The next stop is Sivasagar, a historic town in eastern Assam that once served as the capital of the Ahom Kingdom. Here, tourists will explore significant heritage sites such as the iconic Sivadol temple, Talatal Ghar, and Rang Ghar, which provide insights into Assam’s regal past. The journey continues to Jorhat, known for its lush tea gardens, where tourists will have the opportunity to witness tea processing and plantation life.
Following Jorhat, the itinerary includes a stay at Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. A thrilling early morning jungle safari is scheduled to allow tourists a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Post this experience, the train will depart from Furkating Railway Station and head toward Tripura.
Upon arrival at Kumarghat Railway Station in Tripura, the tour progresses to Unakoti, a site known for its ancient rock carvings and often dubbed the “Angkor Wat of the North East.” The journey continues with visits to Agartala’s architectural gems including the Ujjayanta Palace, the water palace of Neermahal, and the revered Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur.
The next leg of the journey leads to Nagaland. From Dimapur Railway Station, tourists will travel by road to Kohima, the state’s capital. Highlights in Nagaland include a guided visit to Khonoma village, where guests can witness the traditional lifestyle and sustainable practices of the Naga tribes. The scenic stretch between Badarpur and Lumding, known for its mesmerizing views, will also be visible during the train journey.
| Also Read : Tourism to Become the Foundation of Tripura’s Alternative Economy: Tourism Minister |
After exploring Nagaland, tourists return briefly to Guwahati before proceeding by road to Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. En route, a stop at the serene Umium Lake offers a tranquil break. The following day is dedicated to discovering the natural wonders of Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth. The itinerary includes sightseeing at Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, and the fascinating Mawsmai Caves.
The final leg of the journey sees tourists returning to Guwahati to board the train for their return to Delhi, marking the end of a vibrant exploration of India’s Northeast.
Booking and Pricing
IRCTC has designed this tour as a fully inclusive travel package, with prices starting at ₹1,16,905 for AC III tier, ₹1,29,915 for AC II tier, ₹1,49,815 for AC I (cabin), and ₹1,67,845 for AC I (coupe). The fare includes train travel, accommodation, all meals, transfers, sightseeing, and the services of professional tour escorts.
This ‘North East Discovery’ tour aims to cater to a wide range of travelers—nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and culture aficionados—by offering a rare and comfortable opportunity to explore the lesser-travelled yet richly diverse Northeastern region of India.
(With inputs from Tripura Times)
