Indian Railways has introduced region-specific meals on 11 Vande Bharat Express trains, bringing local flavours on board to enhance the passenger experience. The initiative showcases India’s diverse culinary heritage, with menus curated to reflect the regions the trains pass through.

Local flavours, route by route

Passengers on select Vande Bharat routes can now enjoy authentic dishes associated with the states they travel through. On the Nagpur–Secunderabad Vande Bharat Express (20101/20102), the menu features Maharashtra’s Kanda Poha alongside Andhra Pradesh’s Andhra Kodi Kura and Dondakaya Karam Podi Fry.

Gujarati specialities have also found a place, with Methi Thepla served on the Mumbai Central–Gandhinagar Capital route (20901) and Masala Lauki on the Sabarmati BG–Veraval service (26902). Odisha’s Aloo Phulkopi is offered on the Howrah–Puri Vande Bharat (22895).

Strong southern representation

Southern routes have received special attention. On the Kasargod–Thiruvananthapuram (20633/34) and Mangaluru–Thiruvananthapuram (20631/32) Vande Bharat trains, passengers are served a traditional Kerala meal featuring white rice, Kadala Curry, Pachakka Cherupayar Mezhukku Perati, Kerala paratha, curd, Palada Payasam, and appam.

This move is expected to resonate with travellers from coastal Karnataka and Kerala, where food is deeply tied to regional identity and culture.

Eastern and northern delicacies onboard

West Bengal’s cuisine features prominently, with Kosha Paneer on the Rourkela–Howrah Vande Bharat (20872) and Aloo Potol Bhaja on the Howrah–Puri route. Bihar’s iconic Champaran Paneer and Champaran Chicken are available on the Patna–Ranchi (22349) and Patna–Howrah (22348) services respectively.

In the north, Dogri dishes such as Ambal Kaddu and Jammu Chana Masala, along with Kashmiri favourites Tomato Chaman and Kesar Phirni, are being served on Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Sina routes (26401–04).

A cultural journey on rails

Railway officials say the initiative is aimed at making train journeys more immersive by connecting passengers with local food traditions. Beyond comfort and speed, Vande Bharat trains are now positioning themselves as platforms that celebrate India’s regional diversity—one meal at a time.