Travelling by train is a quintessential part of the Indian experience, offering a unique opportunity to traverse the country’s diverse landscapes while enjoying the rhythmic sway of the carriages. However, one of the most delightful aspects of train travel in India is the food. For decades, train journeys have been synonymous with sharing meals, savouring regional delicacies, and enjoying the communal spirit of travel. Traditionally, travellers would pack home-cooked meals for the journey, but with the rise of online food delivery services like Swiggy, ordering delicious, fresh, and hygienic food right to your seat has become incredibly convenient.
The evolution of food delivery services has dramatically transformed the dining experience for train travellers. What was once a monotonous task of choosing between limited options from the pantry car has now become an exciting culinary adventure. The partnership between Swiggy and the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has opened up a world of gastronomic possibilities, allowing passengers to relish a variety of cuisines from renowned restaurants along their route. In this blog, we will explore the must-try foods on a train journey, ensuring your next trip is as flavorful as it is scenic.
Must-Try 10 Rail Meal
1. Biryani
Biryani is an evergreen favourite among train travellers. Whether it’s the Hyderabadi biryani with its rich aroma of saffron and spices or the Kolkata biryani with a distinct hint of potatoes, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meal on the go. The layers of fragrant rice, tender meat, and a blend of spices create a harmonious flavour that is both filling and delicious. Swiggy’s collaboration with local eateries ensures that you get best food in train delivered to your seat, maintaining its authentic taste and aroma.
2. Pav Bhaji
A quintessential Mumbai street food, Pav Bhaji is an excellent choice for train journeys. The spicy, mashed vegetable curry served with buttery pav (bread rolls) is both comforting and flavorful. It’s a mess-free meal that’s easy to eat on the train, and its rich flavours are sure to keep your taste buds happy. With Swiggy, you can order Pav Bhaji from popular joints along your route, ensuring you get a piping hot, delicious meal.
3. Idli Sambar
For those who prefer a light yet nourishing meal, Idli Sambar is a perfect choice. This South Indian delicacy is known for its simplicity and taste. Soft, fluffy idlis served with hot sambar and coconut chutney make for a wholesome breakfast or snack option. The combination is easy to digest and keeps you full for a longer time, making it an ideal meal for long train journeys. Swiggy’s network ensures that you can enjoy authentic Idli Sambar from reputed restaurants during your travel.
4. Chole Bhature
Chole Bhature is a beloved North Indian dish that has found fans across the country. The combination of spicy chickpea curry (chole) and fluffy fried bread (bhature) is a match made in heaven. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner on a train journey. The spicy, tangy chole pairs wonderfully with the soft, chewy bhature, making it a satisfying choice. With Swiggy’s service, you can relish this dish from the best eateries along your route, ensuring a flavorful and filling experience.
5. Paneer Butter Masala with Naan
For vegetarians, Paneer Butter Masala with Naan is a delightful option. The creamy, rich paneer curry with its buttery tomato base is a treat for the taste buds. Paired with soft, warm naan, this meal is both luxurious and comforting. It’s a great choice for those looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal while travelling. Swiggy’s delivery ensures that you can savour this delicious combination fresh, even while on a train.
6. Masala Dosa
Another South Indian classic, Masala Dosa, is a favourite among train travellers for its taste and convenience. The crispy dosa filled with spiced potato mixture served with coconut chutney and sambar, is a fulfilling meal. It’s easy to eat and less messy, making it a popular choice for breakfast or dinner on trains. With Swiggy, you can enjoy Masala Dosa from reputed South Indian restaurants along your journey, ensuring authenticity and freshness.
7. Chicken Kathi Roll
For a quick and tasty snack, Chicken Kathi Rolls are a perfect choice. These rolls, originating from Kolkata, consist of a paratha filled with spicy chicken, vegetables, and sauces rolled up for easy handling. They are convenient to eat and packed with flavors, making them an ideal option for a meal on the go. Swiggy’s service allows you to order these delicious rolls from top-rated eateries, ensuring a satisfying snack during your train journey.
8. Rajma Chawal
Rajma Chawal, with its comforting blend of spiced kidney beans and fluffy rice, is a beloved staple that captures the heart of every foodie. This classic North Indian dish is not just a meal; it’s an emotion. Now, you can enjoy your favorite Rajma Chawal on the go! Simply order it through the Swiggy app, even while traveling on trains.
9. Aloo Paratha
Aloo Paratha, filled with spiced potato and perfectly crisped on the outside, is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to every bite. This classic dish is a breakfast favorite that satisfies the soul.
Now, you can relish your beloved Aloo Paratha on the move! Order it through the Swiggy app, even while traveling on trains.
10. Thali
A Thali is a delightful assortment of flavors, offering a complete and balanced meal with a variety of dishes on a single plate. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a rich culinary experience, sampling different tastes and textures in one sitting.
Now, you can savor a wholesome Thali during your journey! Order it easily through the Swiggy app, even while traveling on trains.
Order Your Favourite Food on Train with Swiggy Now!
The collaboration between Swiggy and IRCTC has revolutionized food delivery on trains, offering passengers an unparalleled dining experience. Whether you’re craving a hearty biryani, a spicy Pav Bhaji, or a comforting Masala Dosa, Swiggy’s extensive network of restaurants ensures that you can enjoy a wide variety of meals on your journey. The convenience of ordering through the Swiggy app, coupled with real-time tracking and timely delivery, makes it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality food while travelling. So, the next time you plan a train journey, make sure to explore Swiggy’s offerings and treat yourself to the best food for train journeys.
Conclusion
Train journeys in India are more than just a means of transportation; they are an opportunity to experience the country’s rich culinary diversity. With the advent of online food delivery services like Swiggy, enjoying delicious, fresh, and hygienic food on trains has never been easier. From biryanis to dosas, the variety of meals on train ensures that there is something for everyone. The collaboration between Swiggy and IRCTC has made it possible to savour the best food on train journeys, transforming the travel experience into a delightful gastronomic adventure. So, sit back, relax, and let Swiggy take care of your meals on your next train journey.
FAQ
1. Can I track my food on train?
Yes, with Swiggy’s real-time tracking feature, you can monitor the status of your food order from preparation to delivery right at your train seat. This innovative feature provides live updates at each step of the process, from when the restaurant begins preparing your meal to when the delivery person picks it up and brings it to your train. You’ll receive notifications about the expected delivery time, allowing you to plan accordingly and ensuring you are ready to collect your meal when it arrives. This transparency not only enhances convenience but also provides peace of mind, knowing exactly where your food is and when you can expect to enjoy it.
2. Which rail meal is best for travelling?
Foods that are easy to eat and less messy, such as biryanis, rolls, idli sambar, and dosas, are ideal for train journeys. These meals are not only delicious but also convenient to handle while travelling. Biryani, for instance, is a complete meal with rice, meat, or vegetables, all infused with aromatic spices, making it a satisfying and flavorful option. Rolls, whether they contain chicken, paneer, or vegetables, are compact and easy to eat without utensils. Idli sambar is another excellent choice, offering soft, steamed rice cakes paired with a flavorful lentil soup, providing a balanced and nutritious meal. Dosas, thin and crispy pancakes usually filled with spiced potatoes, are not only tasty but also relatively mess-free, making them perfect for the confines of a train compartment.
3. Can I order regional specialties while traveling on a train as a rail meal?
Absolutely! Swiggy’s extensive network of partner restaurants along train routes ensures that you can order and enjoy regional specialities, offering a true taste of local flavours during your journey. This means that as you travel through different parts of India, you can sample the culinary delights unique to each region. For example, if you are passing through Gujarat, you can enjoy a fresh dhokla; in Rajasthan, savor the rich flavors of dal baati churma; in Bengal, relish a delicious plate of fish curry. This ability to experience diverse regional cuisines not only enhances your travel experience but also allows you to explore India’s rich culinary heritage right from your train seat.