Bahraich/Lucknow: In a major boost to eco-tourism in Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi Adityanath-led government has introduced Vistadome coaches on the tourist train connecting the Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary to the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. With this initiative, Uttar Pradesh has become the first state in India to provide a unique jungle safari experience via a train equipped with Vistadome coaches, available throughout the year.
Currently operational on weekends, this panoramic journey offers breathtaking views of wetlands, woodlands, grasslands, and farmland through a 107-kilometre stretch of dense forest. The initiative is expected to bolster tourism and generate local employment, particularly in the Terai region.
Scenic Experience at Just ₹275
According to Tourism Director Prakhar Mishra, the initiative is a part of the Chief Minister’s vision to brand the state’s forests as “One Destination, Three Forests” — uniting Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat, and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary under one eco-tourism identity.
Tourists can now enjoy a four-and-a-half-hour train journey through dense forest and diverse landscapes for an affordable fare of just ₹275. Operated between Bichia (Bahraich) and Mailani (Lakhimpur Kheri), the Vistadome-equipped train — Tourist Passenger Train No. 52259 — departs Bichia at 11:45 AM and reaches Mailani by 4:10 PM. The return journey — Train No. 52260 — departs Mailani at 6:05 AM and arrives at Bichia by 10:30 AM, stopping at nine stations along the route.
Nature Trails, Wildlife, and Local Economy
Through the Vistadome coaches, visitors get close views of rich biodiversity, including wetland birds, grassland herbivores, and forest wildlife. The UP Eco-Tourism Development Board is also working on a Lucknow-Katarniaghat tour package, which may include government subsidies to make eco-tourism more accessible.
Tourism authorities believe this service will not only promote nature tourism during the monsoon season but also empower the local economy through greater footfall. The involvement of homestay owners, travel agents, and resort operators is being encouraged to maximize economic benefits.
Special Tours for School Students and Influencers
Special curated tours are also being organized every week under the Yuva Tourism Club for students of government schools. Additionally, familiarization (FAM) tours for travel bloggers and social media influencers are being conducted to digitally showcase the unique jungle train experience.
Tourism Director Mishra emphasized that the initiative aims to promote conservation awareness and appreciation of the state’s natural heritage. “Through coordinated efforts of the Eco-Tourism Board and the far-sighted approach of the Chief Minister, the Vistadome train is setting a new benchmark in sustainable tourism,” he said.
Vision for ‘Green Uttar Pradesh’
The jungle train service, with its low-cost and high-impact appeal, is a milestone in UP’s journey toward becoming a leader in eco-tourism. It not only promises an exciting experience for nature lovers but also aligns with the larger goal of building a “Harit Uttar Pradesh” (Green Uttar Pradesh).
Plans are underway to make the Vistadome train operational on all days of the week, based on the initial positive response. The state government is optimistic that this venture will inspire other regions across India to replicate such innovative, eco-friendly tourism models.
