Raigad District Information Office, May 16 – In commemoration of the coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced a special tourist train under the Bharat Gaurav initiative: the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit. The journey is set to commence on June 9, 2025, and is designed to offer an immersive experience into the valiant legacy and cultural heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
District Collector Kishan Jawale has urged citizens to register and take part in this unique opportunity to explore the historic and religious landmarks associated with the life of the great Maratha king. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), in collaboration with the state government, aims to promote these iconic sites to a wider audience through this initiative.
This is not merely a tour—it is a rare chance to experience firsthand the glorious traditions, rich cultural heritage, and the proud history of Maharashtra. The five-day journey will include guided visits to significant sites, history-based events, and educational programs.
For booking and further information, interested participants can visit the official IRCTC tourism website: www.irctctourism.com.
Throughout the tour, detailed information about the heritage sites will be provided to travelers. MTDC officers, in coordination with IRCTC, will ensure smooth guidance and management at every stage to make the experience memorable and enriching. From railway stations to majestic forts, travelers will trace the historical footprints of Shivaji Maharaj. Each destination will be well-coordinated, featuring history-focused programs, knowledgeable guides, and support from local Shivaji heritage organizations to offer an emotionally and spiritually fulfilling journey.
Tour Overview:
- Name: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit
- Start Date: June 9, 2025
- Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days (concludes in the morning)
- Start/End Location: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai
- Boarding Points: Dadar, Thane
Travel Itinerary:
Mumbai (CSMT) – Raigad – Pune – Shivneri – Bhimashankar – Pratapgad – Kolhapur – Panhala – Mumbai
Key Destinations:
- Raigad Fort – Site of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation and former capital
- Lal Mahal, Pune – Childhood residence of Shivaji Maharaj
- Kasba Ganpati & Shivsrushti, Pune – Religious and museum site dedicated to Shivaji’s legacy
- Shivneri Fort – Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj
- Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – One of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas
- Pratapgad Fort – Site of the historic victory over Afzal Khan
- Kolhapur – Home to the revered Mahalakshmi Temple
- Panhala Fort – Symbol of Baji Prabhu Deshpande’s valor
Tour Packages (Per Person):
Different categories are available: Economy (Sleeper Class), Comfort (3AC), and Superior (2AC). Complete details are provided on the IRCTC website.
Package Inclusions:
- Travel by Bharat Gaurav Train (SL / 3AC / 2AC)
- Accommodation in AC/Non-AC hotels
- Local transfers and guided tours
- Onboard and offboard pure vegetarian meals
- Travel insurance, entry fees (forts, temples, ropeway, museums, etc.)
- Security arrangements
Exclusions:
- Adventure sports, boating, etc.
- Room service charges
- Any personal expenses
- Any additional sightseeing
Brief Itinerary:
- Day 1: Mumbai – Raigad – Pune
- Day 2: Pune (Lal Mahal, Shivsrushti, Kasba Ganpati)
- Day 3: Shivneri – Bhimashankar – Pune
- Day 4: Pratapgad – Kolhapur
- Day 5: Kolhapur (Mahalakshmi Temple) – Panhala – Mumbai
- Day 6: Arrival in Mumbai – Tour Ends
Heavy Vehicles Banned on Alibag-Dharamtar and Mandwa Routes
Raigad District Information Office, May 16 – Due to increasing traffic congestion and rising accidents on the Alibag to Mandwa Jetty and Alibag to Dharamtar routes, District Collector Kishan Jawale has ordered a temporary ban on the movement of heavy vehicles along these corridors.
According to a report submitted by the Superintendent of Police, Raigad-Alibag, the simultaneous movement of tourist vehicles and heavy vehicles such as dumpers, trucks, and cement mixers is leading to major bottlenecks and a surge in road mishaps—especially during weekends when tourist inflow spikes.
To ensure the safety of both local residents and visitors, and to maintain law and order, heavy vehicular movement on these roads will be prohibited on May 17–18 and May 24–25, 2025, between 8 AM and 10 PM.
Exemptions:
This restriction will not apply to vehicles providing essential services, including:
- Milk, diesel, LPG, medicines, oxygen, vegetables
- Police, fire brigade, ambulances
- Vehicles deployed for women’s empowerment programs
