IRCTC Launches Bharat-Bhutan Mystic Mountain Tour on Bharat Gaurav Deluxe Train
In a major boost to international tourism and cross-border cultural travel, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced a new premium rail-cum-road package titled “Bharat-Bhutan Mystic Mountain Tour” aboard the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train. The specially curated journey will take travellers across scenic destinations in Northeast India and the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan over a 13 nights and 14 days itinerary.
The tour is scheduled to depart from Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station on May 5, 2026, offering tourists an opportunity to explore Guwahati, Shillong and Cherrapunji in India, followed by Thimphu, Punakha and Paro in Bhutan.
Designed as a luxury travel experience, the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train features modern cabins, restaurant-style dining, shower cubicles, sensor-based washrooms and enhanced safety systems. The train will accommodate around 150 passengers in AC First Class, AC Second Class and AC Third Class categories.
Passengers can also board the train from Ghaziabad, Aligarh, Tundla Junction, Kanpur, Lucknow and Varanasi, making the package accessible to travellers from multiple North Indian cities.
Journey Begins with Northeast India
The train will first reach Guwahati, the capital of Assam, where tourists will visit the revered Kamakhya Temple, one of the oldest and most important Shakti Peeths located atop Nilachal Hills.
From Guwahati, travellers will proceed to Shillong, the picturesque capital of Meghalaya, popularly known as the “Scotland of the East.” Guests will witness panoramic views at Umiam Lake before checking in for an overnight stay.
A full-day excursion to Cherrapunji, famous worldwide for its heavy rainfall and lush natural beauty, is part of the itinerary. Tourists will visit major attractions including Seven Sisters Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Elephant Falls, and the fascinating Mawsmai Caves, known for their limestone formations and underground passages.
The next day, visitors will explore more of Shillong before returning to Guwahati, where a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River has also been included.
Entry into Bhutan
The train will then proceed to Hasimara Railway Station in West Bengal, the nearest railhead to Bhutan. From there, passengers will be taken by road to Phuentsholing, the border town through which tourists will enter Bhutan after completing immigration formalities.
The group will then travel to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. Sightseeing in Thimphu includes the Motithang Takin Preserve, National Library, painting school, handicraft market and the majestic Tashichho Dzong, which serves as a monastery and the seat of Bhutan’s government.
Exploring Punakha and Paro
The next stop will be Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital. En route, tourists will halt at the scenic Dochula Pass, a mountain pass known for its panoramic Himalayan views and historic significance.
In Punakha, visitors will explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. The dzong is one of Bhutan’s most iconic fortresses and monasteries.
The journey then continues to Paro, a valley town known for its terraced fields, traditional farmhouses and spiritual landmarks. Attractions include Lamperi Royal Botanical Park, Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge, and the famous Paro Dzong.
One of the highlights of the Bhutan leg will be a visit to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, dramatically perched on a cliffside above the Paro Valley. Tourists will also visit the National Museum of Bhutan and enjoy an optional archery session, Bhutan’s national sport.
The final evening in Paro will feature a traditional dinner with cultural performances.
Return Journey and Package Cost
After completing the Bhutan tour, passengers will return to Hasimara and board the train back to Delhi Safdarjung.
IRCTC has announced all-inclusive pricing for the package:
| Category | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| AC First Class Cabin/Coupe | Rs 1,41,540 |
| AC Second Class | Rs 1,33,210 |
| AC Third Class | Rs 1,16,545 |
The fare includes train travel, accommodation in 3-star hotels, vegetarian meals, road transfers, sightseeing, travel insurance and services of professional tour escorts.
Bookings Open
Bookings for the Bharat-Bhutan Mystic Mountain Tour are available online on a first-come, first-served basis through the IRCTC tourism portal. With luxury rail travel, Himalayan landscapes and Bhutan’s rich culture rolled into one package, the new offering is expected to attract both domestic and international travel enthusiasts.
