Indian Railways is the backbone of travel for millions of passengers daily, offering diverse onboard meal options across various train categories. Over the years, Indian Railways has strived to improve its food quality, variety, and affordability.
meals served in different trains, their prices, quality, and other essential details.
Types of Meals Served in Indian Trains
Indian trains provide a variety of meals to suit passengers’ preferences, including vegetarian, non-vegetarian, regional specialties, and light snacks. Here’s an overview of the meals commonly available:
- Breakfast
Typical Options:
Bread with butter/jam
Upma or poha
Idli with sambar
Omelette with bread
Tea or coffee
Quality: These are often served warm, with a focus on freshness. The taste may vary slightly depending on the train and vendor.
Price Range: ₹50–₹90 per meal.
- Lunch and Dinner
Vegetarian Meal:
Rice, dal, chapati, mixed vegetables, pickles, and curd.
Non-Vegetarian Meal:
Includes chicken or egg curry, along with rice, chapati, and sides.
Quality: Meals are usually served hot and packed hygienically. While the quality has improved over the years, experiences vary depending on the class of train and service provider.
Price Range: ₹100–₹150 for vegetarian meals and ₹120–₹180 for non-vegetarian meals.
- Snacks and Light Bites
Popular Items:
Samosas, pakoras, sandwiches, vada pav, and biscuits.
Packaged snacks like chips, chocolates, and soft drinks.
Quality: These are generally pre-packed or freshly prepared and are moderately priced.
Price Range: ₹20–₹50 per item.
- Special Regional Meals
Some premium trains offer regional specialties like biryani, rajma chawal, or South Indian thalis.
Quality: Regional meals are often tastier as they reflect local culinary styles.
Price Range: ₹120–₹200 per meal.
Food Services in Different Train Categories
- Premium Trains
Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express
Food Services: Ticket prices include meals. The menu changes based on the time of day (breakfast, lunch, or dinner).
Quality: High, with better presentation and hygiene standards.
Menu Highlights: Multi-course meals, including soup, main course, dessert, and beverages.
Vande Bharat Express
Food Services: Meals are optional and must be pre-booked for a fee.
Quality: Excellent, offering a mix of Indian and continental options.
Price Range: ₹150–₹250 per meal.
Duronto Express
Food Services: Meals are generally included in the fare.
Quality: Comparable to Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express.
Menu Highlights: Freshly prepared food served in eco-friendly packaging.
- Mail/Express Trains
Food Services: Meals are available for purchase, but not included in the fare.
Quality: Moderate to good, depending on the IRCTC catering service or private vendors.
Price Range: ₹70–₹120 per meal.
- Budget and Local Trains
Food Services: Limited options, often provided by pantry cars or platform vendors.
Quality: Basic, with a focus on affordability.
Price Range: ₹20–₹60 for light snacks.
Special Initiatives to Improve Food Quality
- E-Catering Services
Indian Railways has introduced IRCTC e-Catering to allow passengers to pre-order meals from popular restaurants.
Features:
Order via the IRCTC website, app, or helpline number.
Access to a variety of cuisines, including regional and international.
Price Range: ₹120–₹500, depending on the restaurant and meal type.
- Hygienic Packaging
Trains now use biodegradable or foil packaging to ensure hygiene and environmental sustainability.
- Regular Quality Checks
Indian Railways conducts regular inspections and audits to maintain food quality.
Common Issues with Train Food
Despite improvements, some challenges persist:
Inconsistent Quality: Meal taste and preparation may vary.
Limited Choices: Vegetarian meals are more widely available than non-vegetarian or special meals.
High Prices in Premium Trains: Food in premium trains is priced higher than average.
Tips for a Better Food Experience
Pre-Order Meals: Use IRCTC e-Catering for more choices and guaranteed availability.
Check Reviews: Before choosing an e-Catering vendor, check reviews for quality assurance.
Carry Snacks: Pack some light snacks or dry food as a backup.
Indian Railways has made significant strides in improving onboard food services. From premium dining in Rajdhani and Vande Bharat Express to budget-friendly meals in express trains, the options cater to various preferences and budgets. While there’s still room for improvement, initiatives like e-Catering and regular quality checks reflect the Railways’ commitment to enhancing passenger satisfaction.
Whether you’re embarking on a short journey or a long one, Indian trains ensure your taste buds are catered to with diverse and delicious offerings.
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