from agra to varanasi on train
 

Hi,

I am travelling from Agra to Varanasi (Benares) on a night train. We are supposed to travel in an A/C first class coach. Has anybody tried that? Are the trains confortable? Does the ticket includes the meals?

Thanks for any answer.

I think you will find the train generally comfortable, but not luxurious. Linens and blankets are provided. I do not believe any meals are included, but you should confirm this with either your travel agent, by calling the railway or perhaps your hotel could tell you. I think meals are only included on the super-fast trains (i.e., Rajdhani), not sure if that is the type of train you are taking.

The best thing to do might be to see if your hotel could pack you dinner and breakfast and include a thermos or two of tea if possible. Some snacks like Samosas would be good too, although they may be a bit cold later in the trip, still good IMO.

HI Aruano,
There is no AC FIRST CLASS COACH in Indian Trains anymore. Except on "SPECIAL" Trains like SHATABDI AND RAJDHANI EXPRESS which I Believe do not pass by VARANASI. To know "almost" EVERYTHING about INDIAN TRAINS SEE: www.trainenquiry.com at Indian Rail site.
To se exactly what the indian train classes are access www.seat61.com.
Enjoy Your trip.
Bye.

Don't whatever you do drink the tea provided by the charwallas. Don't even consider eating the hot food available on platforms - don't even consider getting off the train. Much too dangerous. Hey - better feed yourselves on cold big Macs.

As far as I recall, stewards come down the train asking for dinner orders. These are then often loaded onto the train at a stop just before dinner time. If you go for the veg option you'll be fine. Take your own brekkie if u like - some bananas would do just fine.

But then maybe if you are travelling in an a/c first class coach (geez, I'm impressed, and I guess you are being terribly brave, and out-there) then all the food sellers will pass you by.

Post this question on www.indiamike.com also the indian rail website tells you what trains are available for this trip. www.indianrail.gov.in-sometimes this website is offline for maintenance etc.

Sorry but I have diff thoughts. I think u will be fairly comfortable tho not obviously traveling in lap of luxury. I think your ticket does include meals. I was not aware that ac fist class does not exist - am under the impression it still does. My advice would be keep warm clothes handy as ac coaches tend to get VERY cold.

I am back from India now. The trip by train was OK. The train was confortable and they provide you with sheets, pillow and a blanket (old but clean). No food was included but as the train left al 23 and arrived at 8, you really don't need it. It's a good option to go from Agra to Varanasi. Don't forget a pullover as the air-con is high.

yes, Alice13, the train had air-con in first class! Listen, i read some of your post and you seem to be the "know all independent traveller with an open mind" Funny, coming from Manchester.

Forget the sarcasm. You don't know me, you don't know the purpose of my trip, you don't know the way i travel. Next time, if you have something useful to say, post a reply, if not, save our time and yours.

Aruano, I'm interested in making that trip next year, but I cannot get the Indian Rail site to show an A/C 1st class coach option. Could you please give me the specifics--what was the name of the train? Thanks!
Jane