Tourism in India generated more than 230 billion dollars in 2017. This is because of the myriad options available like 36 world heritage sites and 103 national parks along with mountain peaks and beaches. Moreover, you will be surprised to know that among these there are more domestic tourists than international.
A lot of middle class working Indians have money to spend and they are exploring their own country. IRCTC’s Steam express is one such project aimed at domestic tourists.
It is important to revisit history as you head towards the future. Modern travellers are unable to feel the train that they are travelling in as intimately as people who have travelled on steam expresses.
IRCTC gives you the opportunity to experience your yesteryears chugging along ‘Steam Express’. Feel the springing motion of the train and running gear as the train shuttles from Delhi cantonment to Rewari and back to Delhi. This old and stately steam locomotive is out of yards after decades offering you an exuberant experience with refurbished running gears that include brake gear, wheelsets, axel boxes, connecting rods and valve gear.
This Guinness record holder ‘Steam Express – Steam Loco WP 7161’ is set to locomote every second Saturday between Oct’18 to April 19. The package includes to and fro journey and a visit to the Heritage Steam: Shed at Rewari.
The train departs from Delhi Cantonment at 10:30 am and reaches Rewari at 1:00 pm on the specified dates. The return journey commences on the same day wherein the train leaves Rewari at 4:15 PM, reaching Delhi at 6:15 pm. In between you can explore places like Rewari Steam Centre, Pickup Fun Zone or Village Adventure Camp.
You would be surprised to know that this ‘Majestic Exploit’ is actually affordable. The return trip is operated by diesel traction which works well with the low calorie high ash Indian coal that powers the WP 7200 engine making it a favourite among loco drivers.
If you opt for a two-way journey from Delhi to Rewari and back to Delhi, you need to pay Rs 6804 per adult and Rs 3402 per children. In case of one-way journey, you will pay Rs. 3402 for adult and Rs 1701 for children.
The seats can be booked from one travel operator/group or purchased directly from IRCTC/NRM. The ticket confirmation will be received once 30 seats have been booked.
It’s time for you to disappear in your dream world whilst revisiting and refreshing your childhood memories.