The famous Patalpani-Kalakund Heritage Train officially resumed its operations on August 22, 2026, bringing back one of the most picturesque rail journeys in the Malwa region. Managed by the Ratlam Division of Western Railway, the service was approved for restoration on August 21, 2026, following successful repairs in Bikaner and a thorough trial run conducted on August 20, 2026. Ratlam Divisional Railway Public Relations Officer Mukesh Kumar confirmed that the train will operate three days a week on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
The heritage service features two AC Chair Car coaches, designated as C1 and C2, alongside four non-AC Chair Car coaches numbered D1 through D4. Passengers can enjoy a budget-friendly ride in the non-AC chair car for a fare of ₹20, while tickets for the AC Vistadome coach range from approximately ₹265 to ₹270 per person for a one-way trip. Passengers are required to book separate tickets for the onward and return journeys via PRS counters, the IRCTC website, the IRCTC Tourism platform, or various travel applications. The initiative is also being actively promoted by MP Tourism.
Scenic Route and Timetable
The scenic route covers a 9.5 to 10-kilometer metre-gauge section renowned for its breathtaking hills, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls. During the journey, the train passes through four tunnels, 29 sharp curves, six major bridges, and 35 smaller bridges. To enhance the passenger experience, the service includes a 30- to 50-minute halt at the famous Patalpani Waterfall and a 20-minute stop on a scenic bridge for photography and sightseeing.
As per the official schedule, Train No. 52965 departs from Patalpani at 11:05 AM and reaches Kalakund at 1:05 PM, taking around two hours due to the scenic halts. The return service, Train No. 52966, departs from Kalakund at 3:34 PM and arrives back at Patalpani at 4:30 PM, completing the return leg in about 56 minutes.