Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Friday that Indian Railways will launch a specially curated 10-day tour titled “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Glorious Maratha Tour” starting July 16. The tour will be conducted by the Bharat Gaurav train and will highlight significant landmarks associated with the Maratha Empire, along with ancient pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra.
Speaking at a press conference, Fadnavis described the initiative as a tribute to the rich history, culture, and valour of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Maratha dynasty. "This is not just a journey; it is a celebration of Maharashtrian culture and the timeless legacy of the Maratha Empire," he said.
The tour will begin in Delhi and cover a range of destinations linked to the Maratha Empire and spiritual sites in Maharashtra. Key locations include Raigad Fort, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, and Shivneri Fort in Pune, as well as Trimbakeshwar in Nashik, the famous Ellora Caves, and the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
Other notable stops include Shirdi (Ahilyanagar), known for its association with Saint Sai Baba, adding both historical and spiritual significance to the journey.
According to a statement from the Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC), the tour will be available for booking at multiple stations, including New Delhi, Delhi Cantt, Gurgaon, Rewari, Phulera, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Vasai Road, and Kalyan.
The “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Glorious Maratha Tour” aims to offer tourists a unique opportunity to explore Maharashtra's historical landmarks and spiritual heritage in a comfortable and curated travel experience.
IRCTC, under the Ministry of Railways, hopes that this initiative will further promote tourism and strengthen cultural connections between regions.
