India is launching the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a dedicated tourist train set to deepen connections between the Indian diaspora and their ancestral heritage. This unique journey, scheduled to depart from Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi on January 9, 2025, exclusively welcomes Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) aged 45 to 65. Over a three-week itinerary, the train will transport participants to culturally, historically, and spiritually significant sites across the country.
The train tour, organized by India’s Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), forms part of the Pravasi Teerth Darshan Yojana (PTDY) initiative. The January departure date commemorates the 110th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India from South Africa, adding a symbolic layer to the event. As an official statement emphasized, “This initiative is meant to provide the Indian diaspora with a unique opportunity to explore their heritage and spiritual landmarks.”
The Pravasi Bharatiya Express will include stops at a selection of culturally rich destinations such as Ayodhya, Patna, Gaya, Varanasi, Mahabalipuram, Rameshwaram, Madurai, Kochi, Goa, Ekta Nagar (Kevadia), Ajmer, Pushkar, and Agra. With a total capacity of 156 passengers, the train promises a fully immersive cultural experience designed to foster a deep connection with India’s legacy.
To ensure maximum participation, the Indian government is fully covering the cost of the journey within India and is subsidizing 90 percent of the return airfare for eligible PIOs. Travelers are required to pay just 10 percent of their airfare from their home country, making the trip an accessible and affordable opportunity for members of the diaspora.
