By Mewati Sitaram
In a significant push towards eco-tourism, Uttar Pradesh has become the first state in the country to offer a jungle safari experience through a Vistadome coach. The new train service connects Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in Bahraich district with Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in Pilibhit, offering a panoramic view of the state’s lush forest landscape.
The initiative, launched by the UP Eco Tourism Development Board, features specially designed coaches equipped with large glass windows and transparent roofs to provide an immersive wildlife viewing experience. Currently operational on weekends, the government plans to extend the service to all days of the week based on tourist response.
Mukesh Kumar Meshram, IAS, Principal Secretary, Tourism, told Mumbai Messenger that Uttar Pradesh Tourism has chalked out several unique plans to attract tourists from India and abroad. “Our goal is to position UP firmly on the global tourism map with innovative offerings like the Vistadome jungle safari,” he said.
The 107-kilometre journey from Bichia to Mailani spans nine stations and takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes. With a ticket price of Rs 275, the service aims to be both accessible and engaging. The route includes stops at stations such as Tikunia, Dudhwa, Palia Kalan and Bhira Kheri, among others.
Mukesh Kumar Meshram IAS, Principal Secretary, UP Tourism
Tourism director Prakhar Mishra said the initiative is part of the broader “One Destination, Three Forests” campaign, which integrates Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat, and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary to provide a holistic forest experience. The board is also preparing a subsidised package to transport tourists from Lucknow to Katarniaghat.
Officials highlighted that the Vistadome train route offers tourists a unique opportunity to experience Uttar Pradesh’s rich biodiversity and varied landscapes, including dense forests, expansive farmlands, and scenic water bodies. Designed to operate even during the monsoon season—traditionally a low period for wildlife tourism—the service is expected to draw consistent footfall throughout the year. The initiative is also poised to generate substantial employment at the grassroots level, benefiting local homestay operators, resort owners, and travel service providers. In addition to boosting regional tourism, it aims to strengthen the rural economy by fostering sustainable livelihoods in surrounding communities.
Specially curated weekly tours under the Youth Tourism Club are being conducted for school children from government institutions. Additionally, influencer and blogger trips are being organized to promote the experience on digital platforms. With this pioneering effort, Uttar Pradesh is charting a new path for sustainable tourism, blending environmental awareness with economic development.
It is noteworthy that the Swiss Tourism Board operates similar panoramic train services, such as the world-renowned Glacier Express and Bernina Express, which are major attractions for visitors from across the globe. These Vistadome-style coaches, featuring expansive glass windows and scenic alpine routes, offer a breathtaking travel experience that has become synonymous with Swiss tourism. Taking inspiration from these global models, Uttar Pradesh’s Vistadome initiative aspires to deliver a comparable, world-class journey for Indian travellers—highlighting the state’s rich biodiversity, forested landscapes, and unique wildlife in a captivating and immersive manner.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
