New Delhi– Indian Railways has rolled out a new initiative to serve regional cuisines on Vande Bharat trains, aiming to enrich the passenger experience by offering authentic local flavours reflective of India’s diverse culinary heritage.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the move allows passengers to enjoy traditional dishes native to the regions their trains pass through, turning rail journeys into a more culturally immersive experience. The initiative is part of Indian Railways’ broader effort to enhance onboard services and passenger satisfaction on its premium train network.
Travellers on the Nagpur–Secunderabad Vande Bharat Express can relish Maharashtra’s popular Kanda Poha alongside South Indian specialities such as Dondakaya Karam Podi Fry and Andhra Kodi Kura. Gujarati cuisine has also found a place on the menu, with Methi Thepla being served on the Mumbai Central–Gandhinagar Capital Vande Bharat Express and Masala Lauki on the Sabarmati–Veraval service.
Passengers on the Howrah–Puri Vande Bharat Express are being offered Odisha’s Aloo Phulkopi, while Kerala’s traditional meal, featuring white rice, Pachakka Cherupayar Mezhukku Perati, Kadala Curry, Kerala Paratha, curd, Palada Payasam and Appam, is available on the Kasargod–Thiruvananthapuram and Mangaluru–Thiruvananthapuram routes.
West Bengal’s flavours are represented through dishes like Kosha Paneer and Aloo Potol Bhaja on select Vande Bharat services, while Bihar’s famed Champaran Paneer and Champaran Chicken are being served on Patna-linked routes. Northern cuisines have also been included, with Dogri dishes such as Ambal Kaddu and Jammu Chana Masala and Kashmiri delicacies like Tomato Chaman and Kesar Phirni available on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express services.
Maharashtra’s Masala Upma is being offered on the Mumbai CSMT–Madgaon Vande Bharat Express, while passengers on the New Jalpaiguri–Howrah route can enjoy West Bengal’s traditional Murgir Jhol.
Indian Railways said the initiative reflects its commitment to celebrating India’s culinary diversity while making train travel more memorable, comfortable and culturally engaging for passengers across the country.
