The All-Encompassing Guide to Kashi Mahakal Express: An Upgrade in Train Travel
The Kashi Mahakal Express is a tri-weekly train, operated by IRCTC, connecting Varanasi and Indore from February 20, 2020. What sets this train apart is its elaborate design, fully air-conditioned facilities, and unique offerings. Let's delve into its features, interior, and the experience it offers to passengers.
Overview of the Kashi Mahakal Express
The Kashi Mahakal Express is a tri-weekly train, connecting Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) and Indore (Madhya Pradesh) with stops via Lucknow and Prayagraj. This train offers a unique blend of traditional and modern amenities, making it a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation for passengers.
Interior Features of Kashi Mahakal Express
Designing a train that caters to the needs of diverse travelers, the Kashi Mahakal Express boasts of humane and innovative features:
Restrooms with Child Seat:Equipped for families traveling with toddlers, this feature ensures a comfortable and safe journey for all. CCTV Surveillance and Fire Safety:Ensuring the safety of passengers, CCTV cameras are installed on board, and fire safety measures are in place. Power Sockets and Reading Lamps:Virtually every berth is equipped with power sockets and reading lamps, making it easier for weary travelers to take care of their digital gadgets and leisure reading. Modifying Side Lower Berths:The side lower berths have been modified to cover the fold gap, which increases the comfort of passengers. Improved Steps for Upper Berths:A more robust design for steps to and from upper berths enhances the ease of movement and safety. Safe Sleeping: The upper berths come with metal bars, adding an extra layer of security while sleeping. Vegetarian Pantry:Only vegetarian food is available in the pantry car, aligning with the train's commitment to providing healthier options.IRCTC Mahakal Express Features
The Kashi Mahakal Express has the Humsafar express rake, making its interior features similar to that of the Humsafar Express. These features include:
Elaborate on-board hospitality by trained staff. On-board passenger information and entertainment systems. Around-the-clock security and housekeeping arrangements. Complimentary bedrolls for all passengers. Comfortable 3-tier berths. Tea/coffee vending machines. CCTVs, fire and smoke detection and suppressant system. Round-the-clock access to vegetarian meals.Launch and Destinations
Led by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, the Kashi Mahakal Express was launched on February 16, 2020. This train offers connectivity between three Jyotirlingas - Omkareshwar (near Indore), Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain), and Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi), along with the industrial and educational hub of Indore, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal, and Jhansi.
Timings of the Kashi Mahakal Express
The bi-weekly Kashi Mahakal Express will operate from Varanasi to Indore with the following timings:
Train 82401 (Varanasi to Indore): Departs from Varanasi at 2:45 PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Train 82402 (Indore to Varanasi): Departs from Indore at 10:55 AM on Wednesdays and Fridays.Weekly Timings via Prayagraj
The weekly train will depart from Varanasi at 3:15 PM on Sundays, covering the following destinations:
Varanasi to Indore: Arrives at 9:40 AM the following day. Indore to Varanasi: Departs from Indore at 10:55 AM on Mondays, arriving at Varanasi at 5:00 AM the next morning.Facilities on Board
Designed for premium comfort, the Kashi Mahakal Express offers several on-board facilities:
High-quality vegetarian meals catered by skilled chefs. Fully air-conditioned 3-tier berths ensuring cooled comfort. On-board security surveillance and safety measures. Complimentary bedrolls provided to all passengers. Around-the-clock catering services, including tea and coffee. LED lights in coaches for enhanced visibility and ambiance. Exclusive optional tour packages for religious, business, and tourism sites in the region. Light devotional music played in every coach. Two dedicated private guards in every coach for added security. Complimentary Rs 10 lakh travel insurance for all passengers.Insurance Coverage
To provide additional security, every passenger on the Kashi Mahakal Express is covered with complimentary travel insurance of Rs 10 lakh throughout the journey.
Fare Scheme for Kashi Mahakal Express
The cost of travel on the Kashi Mahakal Express is as follows:
Varanasi to Indore (82401): Rs 1951 Varanasi to Lucknow (via Spice):Rs 679 Varanasi to Kanpur (via Spice): Rs 980 Varanasi to Bina (via Lucknow): Rs 1463 Varanasi to Sant Hirdaram Nagar (via Bina): Rs 1599 Varanasi to Ujjain (via Sant Hirdaram Nagar): Rs 1803 Passengers can book their tickets through IRCTC's official website, mobile app (Irctc Rail Connect), authorized agents, or online travel partners.Conclusion
The Kashi Mahakal Express represents a new standard in train travel, offering a blend of traditionalJyotirlinga heritage with modern comfort and convenience. Its launch marks a significant step forward in making travel between Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh more accessible and enjoyable for all.