Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 19: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Indian Railways has rolled out regional cuisine options on its Vande Bharat Express trains, giving passengers a taste of India’s diverse culinary heritage during their journeys. The Ministry of Railways announced the move on Thursday, December 18, stating that the service aims to enhance the travel experience by offering culturally relevant and locally inspired meals.
Passengers can now relish authentic delicacies from states including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, West Bengal, Kerala, Bihar, and Kashmir, all from the comfort of their train seats.
On the Nagpur–Secunderabad Vande Bharat Express (train nos. 20101/20102), travellers can enjoy Maharashtra’s Kanda Poha, South India’s Dondakaya Karam Podi Fry, and Andhra Pradesh’s Andhra Kodi Kura. Gujarati specialties such as Methi Thepla and Masala Lauki are being served on trains 20901 MMCT–GNC and 26902 SBIB–VRL respectively. Odisha’s Aloo Phulkopi is available on the Howrah–Puri Vande Bharat Express (22895).
Kerala’s traditional spread, including Pachakka Cherupayar Mezhukku Perati, Kadala Curry, Kerala Paratha, Appam, plain curd, Palada Payasam, and white rice, is being served on the Kasargod–Trivandrum (20633/34) and Mangalore–Trivandrum (20631/32) Vande Bharat Express trains.
West Bengal dishes like Kosha Paneer and Aloo Potol Bhaja are available on the ROU–HWH (20872) and HWH–PURI (22895) Vande Bharat routes. Bihar’s iconic Champaran Paneer and Champaran Chicken are being served on PNBE–RNC (22349) and PNBE–HWH (22348) trains respectively.
Trains 26401–02 and 26403–04 feature Dogri cuisine, including Ambal Kaddu and Jammu Chana Masala, while Kashmiri specialities like Tomato Chaman and Kesar Phirni are available on SVDK–SINA Vande Bharat Express routes. Maharashtra’s Masala Upma is being served on the CSMT–MAO (22229) train, and West Bengal’s Murgir Jhol is offered on the NJP–HWH (22302) route.
Through this culinary initiative, Indian Railways is not only celebrating India’s rich gastronomic diversity but also transforming train journeys into culturally immersive experiences, making every ride on the Vande Bharat Express a feast for the senses.