Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday flagged off the Bharat Gaurav Special Tourist Train dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, marking the 351st anniversary of his coronation, celebrated as Shiv Rajyabhishek Day. The special train will take tourists on a six-day journey across historic sites associated with the Maratha warrior king.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Mumbai, CM Fadnavis extended greetings on the occasion and lauded Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy. “351 years ago, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established Hindavi Swaraj. Today’s Bharat Gaurav Train will take people to all the key sites that celebrate his life and vision,” he said.
Highlighting the train’s popularity, Fadnavis noted it was fully booked for its maiden journey, with 710 passengers on board—80% of whom are under 40, showcasing strong youth interest in Indian history. He thanked Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting the initiative.
The itinerary begins from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai and covers the following key locations:
- Day 1 – Raigad: Tourists will visit the Raigad Fort, Shivaji Maharaj’s capital and site of his coronation. After sightseeing, the train proceeds to Pune for an overnight hotel stay.
- Day 2 – Pune: Key sites include Lal Mahal, the childhood home of Shivaji Maharaj; Kasba Ganapati Temple; and Shivsrushti, a historical theme park showcasing Shivaji’s life through immersive exhibits and 3D shows.
- Day 3 – Shivneri & Bhimashankar: Tourists visit Shivneri Fort, Shivaji’s birthplace, followed by the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple. The group returns to Pune for the night.
- Day 4 – Satara & Pratapgarh Fort: The train moves to Satara, where visitors explore Pratapgarh Fort, site of the legendary battle between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan, pivotal in the Maratha Empire’s rise.
- Day 5 – Kolhapur: After reaching Kolhapur, tourists visit the revered Mahalakshmi Temple (Ambabai) and the historic Panhala Fort, associated with Shivaji Maharaj’s military strategies and the valour of commander Baji Prabhu Deshpande. The return journey to Mumbai begins the same evening.
- Day 6 – Return to Mumbai: The train arrives back in Mumbai in the early morning, completing the six-day circuit.
The IRCTC-organized package offers three tiers:
- Economy (Sleeper Class): ₹13,155
- Comfort (3AC): ₹19,840
- Superior (2AC): ₹27,365
Each package includes train travel, hotel accommodations, vegetarian meals, local transfers and sightseeing, travel insurance, and services of a tour escort. IRCTC has promised a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience for all passengers.
The Bharat Gaurav Train initiative aims to promote cultural tourism and instill historical pride, especially among younger generations, through immersive travel experiences.