The Vande Bharat Express, also known as Train 18, stands as India’s first indigenously built semi-high-speed train.
This flagship initiative of the Indian Railways represents a significant leap in technology and passenger comfort, designed to provide faster and more luxurious travel on select routes. It is recognized as a premier service within the country’s extensive rail network.
One common question that arises when considering a journey on the Vande Bharat Express is whether food is complimentary.
In this article, we delve into this query and other aspects of the Vande Bharat Express experience, particularly focusing on the provision of food services and whether they are available at an additional cost.
Is Food Free on Vande Bharat Express?
Is Food Free in Vande Bharat Express? The answer is no; Food is not free on Vande Bharat Express. However, you can include meals in your ticket for an additional cost on the Vande Bharat Express.
The cost varies depending on your travel class (Executive Class or Chair Car) and your specific choices. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) manages the onboard food service and provides a menu with clear pricing.
Passengers can also order food during the journey, but this will incur an extra charge. To ensure you get your preferred choices, it is recommended to pre-book your meals. Alternatively, you can purchase them directly onboard.
Overview of Vande Bharat Express
The Vande Bharat Express is India’s first semi-high speed fully air-conditioned train, known for its efficiency and comfort. It operates on select routes across the country, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
Operational routes of the Vande Bharat Express include prominent city pairs such as New Delhi-Varanasi and New Delhi-Katra, with plans for expanding to other major routes in the future.
The train is equipped with modern amenities to enhance passenger comfort and convenience. These amenities include:
- Spacious and Comfortable Seating: Ergonomically designed seats with ample legroom.
- Automatic Doors: Automated entry and exit doors for passenger safety and convenience.
- Passenger Information System: LCD displays providing real-time updates on travel information.
- Onboard Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi for passengers to stay connected during their journey.
- CCTV Surveillance: Enhanced security with CCTV cameras throughout the train.
- Bio-Vacuum Toilets: Modern, eco-friendly toilets ensuring hygiene and cleanliness.
- GPS-Based Passenger Information System: Real-time tracking and information updates.
- Reclining Seats in Executive Class: Additional comfort with reclining seats and extra legroom in the Executive Class.
These features collectively make the Vande Bharat Express a preferred choice for travelers seeking speed, comfort, and modern amenities during their journey across India.
Does Vande Bharat Express Provide Food?
Does Vande Bharat Express provide food? Yes, Vande Bharat Express offers onboard catering services provided by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Passengers can enjoy a variety of meals, including:
- Breakfast: Options may include regional specialties such as jowar bhakri, sabudana khichdi, and besan pola.
- Lunch and Dinner: A mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including regional cuisines like matar pulao, bhakri, groundnut pulao, aamti, danyachi usal, jhunka, and various chicken dishes.
The menu is designed to cater to diverse tastes and includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with a focus on regional flavors.
The Vande Bharat Express elevates your travel experience not just with speed and comfort, but also with delicious onboard catering. IRCTC ensures a delightful selection of meals throughout your journey.
Pricing Structure
The pricing of meals on the Vande Bharat Express varies depending on the class of travel (Executive Class or Chair Car) and the specific menu items chosen.
Passengers can view the menu and prices onboard or pre-book meals to ensure availability. The pricing structure for meals is as follows:
- Chair Car (CC): Meals start at Rs 65 for a minimum journey and can go up to Rs 350 for a full journey.
- Executive Chair Car (EC): Meals are slightly higher priced, starting at Rs 105 for a minimum journey.
Passengers have the option to select meals at the time of ticket booking or opt out if they prefer. The menu includes a variety of options, catering to different tastes and preferences.
How to Purchase Food on the Vande Bharat Express
The Vande Bharat Express offers a convenient way to satisfy your hunger pangs during your journey. Here’s how you can purchase the delicious meals on board:
- Pre-Booking for Guaranteed Choice: Planning ahead is always a good idea, especially if you have specific dietary preferences or want to ensure availability of your favorite dishes. The IRCTC might offer pre-booking options for meals, allowing you to reserve your choices in advance. This eliminates the worry of missing out on your desired options.
- Onboard Purchase for Flexibility: If you prefer a more spontaneous approach, fret not! The Vande Bharat Express also features onboard purchase facilities. Trained staff will be available to take your order and ensure a smooth dining experience. Simply browse the menu, select your desired dishes, and enjoy a delicious meal delivered straight to your seat.
Conclusion
In summary, food on the Vande Bharat Express is not complimentary; it is available for purchase. However, the convenience and variety of meals offered make it a worthwhile experience.
Passengers can enjoy a range of delicious options, from regional specialties to familiar comfort foods, all provided by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
This approach not only keeps ticket prices competitive but also ensures a premium travel experience with a focus on comfort and satisfaction.
So, sit back, relax, and savor the culinary delights as you journey across India’s scenic landscapes aboard the Vande Bharat Express.