IRCTC Launches ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit’ via Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train
Pune/Mumbai, 16th May 2025: In a unique initiative to promote cultural heritage tourism, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a Navratna Public Sector Undertaking under the Government of India, has announced the launch of the “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit” – a specially curated tour dedicated to the glorious legacy of the legendary Maratha warrior king.
Scheduled to commence on June 9, 2025, this five-day journey aboard the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train will take passengers through iconic locations associated with the life and times of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The itinerary spans historic forts, temples, and cultural landmarks across Maharashtra, aimed at providing an immersive experience into the Maratha empire’s proud legacy.
A Journey Through Maratha History
The train will start from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai and cover destinations such as Raigad Fort, Pune (Lal Mahal, Kasba Ganpati, Shivsrushti), Shivneri Fort, Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Pratapgarh Fort, Kolhapur (Mahalakshmi Temple), and Panhala Fort. Each of these sites holds deep historical and cultural significance, closely tied to the life of Shivaji Maharaj.
Raigad Fort, where the coronation of Shivaji Maharaj was held, and Shivneri Fort, his birthplace, are among the major highlights. The tour also includes a visit to Pratapgarh, the site of Shivaji’s famous encounter with Afzal Khan in 1659, and the Panhala Fort, associated with his daring escape alongside Baji Prabhu Deshpande.
Tour Details and Pricing
The tour will operate in three categories:
Economy (Sleeper Class): ₹13,155 per person
Comfort (3AC): ₹19,840 per person
Superior (2AC): ₹27,365 per person
The price includes train travel, accommodation, transport, meals (vegetarian only), sightseeing, monument entry charges, ropeway tickets at Raigad, and travel insurance. Single travelers will be accommodated on a sharing basis.
Cultural and Spiritual Blend
Alongside heritage destinations, the itinerary also includes revered pilgrimage sites such as the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga and the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur. The journey offers a combination of spiritual enrichment and historical exploration.
Comfortable Travel with All-Inclusive Facilities
The Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train, designed for themed tourism circuits, ensures comfort and convenience for all age groups. Passengers will be provided with hotel stays, local transport (AC/Non-AC based on category), guided tours, onboard and off-board meals, and security.
The boarding and de-boarding points include CSMT, Dadar, and Thane, making it accessible for tourists from Mumbai and nearby areas.
IRCTC’s Efforts to Promote Domestic Tourism
With the introduction of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit, IRCTC continues to strengthen its vision under the Dekho Apna Desh initiative, aimed at encouraging Indians to explore the nation’s diverse cultural and historical treasures.
For bookings and more details, interested travelers can visit the IRCTC tourism portal.
Tour Snapshot:
Start Date: June 9, 2025
Duration: 5 Days / 6 Nights
Start & End Point: Mumbai (CSMT)
Key Stops: Raigad, Pune, Shivneri, Bhimashankar, Pratapgarh, Kolhapur, Panhala
Experience Maratha Glory First-Hand – Travel Through Time with IRCTC.
