The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has officially launched ‘VANDARSHAN’, a series of all-inclusive wildlife safari packages in collaboration with the Maharashtra Forest Department. This initiative simplifies wildlife tourism by bundling essential travel components into a single booking, ensuring a stress-free experience for nature enthusiasts. The program was formalized through an MoU signed on July 29, 2026, during International Tiger Day celebrations in Nagpur.
- All-inclusive model: Covers confirmed train tickets, accommodation, local transfers, and safari permits.
- Initial coverage: Includes six major reserves including Tadoba-Andhari, Pench, and Bor.
- Itinerary: Meticulously curated 4-night/5-day journeys for travellers.
- Departure point: Initial services will originate from Mumbai CSMT via the Vidarbha Express.
Seamless Wildlife Travel Experience
IRCTC West Zone Group General Manager Gaurav Jha emphasized that this partnership is designed to offer travellers effortless access to Maharashtra’s premier wildlife destinations while championing eco-friendly tourism. By streamlining the logistics of forest visits, the initiative aims to boost domestic tourism and encourage sustainable travel habits among visitors. By bundling services, IRCTC is able to offer competitive rates, making these premium wildlife experiences more accessible to the public.
Destinations and Future Expansion
The initial phase of the VANDARSHAN project covers six key wildlife locations: Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Pench National Park, Bor Tiger Reserve, Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve, Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, and Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. Currently, travellers can choose from five distinct itineraries, each spanning a 4-night/5-day duration.
While operations are starting with departures from Mumbai CSMT using the Vidarbha Express, IRCTC plans to expand the service by introducing additional boarding stations across the state. This strategic move marks a significant expansion for IRCTC into the specialized wildlife tourism sector, promising a more organized and reliable way for passengers to explore India’s natural heritage.