By News18,Parishmita Saikia
Copyright news18
India is home to one of the largest and busiest railway networks in the world, with millions of passengers travelling by train each day. Typically, travellers either bring their own food or purchase meals from railway canteens. However, there is one unique train that offers a very different experience — the Sachkhand Express. Passengers on this train not only receive a ticket to their destination but also enjoy free, freshly-prepared meals throughout their journey. This extraordinary service sets the Sachkhand Express apart from every other train in the country.
The Sachkhand Express (Train No. 12715) runs between Nanded in Maharashtra and Amritsar in Punjab. Its route is steeped in history and spirituality. Nanded is revered as the final resting place of the 10th Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, while Amritsar is home to the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), the holiest shrine in Sikhism. Because of this, the Sachkhand Express is seen not just as a train, but as a spiritual pilgrimage on wheels.
The service began in the 1990s and has now been operating for nearly three decades. Over the years, lakhs of pilgrims have travelled aboard the train and partaken in the langar, a free community meal that reflects the Sikh values of equality, charity, and selfless service. Despite changes in railway operations over time, this beautiful tradition has been preserved and continues uninterrupted.
The train covers a distance of approximately 2,000 kilometres, with 39 scheduled stops along the way. Meals are distributed at six main stations: New Delhi, Bhopal, Parbhani, Jalna, Aurangabad, and Marathwada. At these stops, the train halts long enough for passengers to comfortably eat. During the 33-hour journey, passengers receive three meals a day — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — all provided free of charge.
These langar services are entirely funded through donations collected by various gurdwaras along the route. The Sikh tradition of langar, which dates back centuries, is built on the principle of serving the same food to all, regardless of caste, religion, class, or background. In keeping with these ideals, the Sachkhand Express ensures every passenger, from General Class to AC Coach, receives the same meal, reinforcing a message of equality and unity.
While the meals may not be luxurious, they are both tasty and nutritious, usually consisting of dishes like dal (lentils), chole (chickpeas), khichdi, and simple vegetable curries such as potato or cauliflower. The food is prepared in a manner that’s easy to digest, and passengers are expected to bring their own utensils, helping to maintain hygiene and reduce food waste.
The Sachkhand Express is more than a train, it is an experience rooted in faith, service, and humanity. Travellers not only reach a sacred destination but also witness the spirit of generosity and devotion that defines the Sikh community. It has earned a special place in Indian Railways, not just for its journey, but for the values it carries along the way. For many, the memories of this journey, and the warmth of being served a free meal with dignity and equality, last a lifetime.
How to Apply or Book a Journey? To travel on the Sachkhand Express or register for associated pilgrimage services, passengers may be required to complete an online application. After logging in to the designated portal, the application form should be filled in with the required details. Passengers must upload the necessary documents, such as a photograph, signature, and certificates if applicable. Once the application fee has been paid, the process is complete. It is recommended to save a copy of the completed form for future reference. (AI Generated)
