For nature lovers who cherish the beauty of lush valleys and serene landscapes, Madhya Pradesh’s one and only heritage train is making a grand comeback after a four-month pause. According to Indian Railways, the Patalpani–Kalakund Heritage Train will resume operations from July 26, running every Saturday and Sunday. The Western Railway’s Ratlam division has issued an official circular confirming the revival. However, travelers must reach Patalpani station by road, as there’s no direct rail connectivity to the starting point.
The Journey: A Monsoon Marvel This scenic train ride begins at Patalpani Railway Station, nestled in the heart of Mhow tehsil, and winds its way to Kalakund, covering a distance of 10 km in about 2 hours. Along the way, passengers are treated to:
- Dense forests and rolling hills
- Gushing waterfalls and misty tunnels
- Chirping birds and the aroma of roasted corn, spicy bhajiyas, and steaming Maggi
The train itself is a charming throwback, with five coaches—two AC Chair Cars and three Non-AC Chair Cars. Tickets are modestly priced: ₹265 for AC and just ₹20 for Non-AC.
Train Timings
- Departure from Patalpani: 11:05 AM
- Arrival at Kalakund: 1:05 PM
- Return from Kalakund: 3:34 PM
- Arrival back at Patalpani: 4:30 PM
Tickets are available online via IRCTC, Paytm, or MakeMyTrip. And yes, you’ll need separate bookings for the onward and return journeys.