IRCTC launches Goa Carnival package for Mumbaikars

Rail travellers from Mumbai will have a matchless opportunity to experience the spectacular and fun-filled 'Goa Carnival' as Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC) launches the first of its kind rail tour package for the picturesque coastal state, scheduled for February 5.

The five nights-six days all-inclusive package, which will also include sightseeing and cruise ride in Goa capital Panaji, has been chalked out by IRCTC's West Zone in collaboration with Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC).

The Goa package, beginning from Mumbai, has been priced at Rs 13,432 and it includes 3 tier AC tickets in Mangalore Express, accommodation in Miramar Residency (Goa Tourism hotel located on the Miramar beach) for three nights, continental breakfast, pick up and drop service in non-AC coach, and sightseeing (North Goa and South Goa) in AC coach, besides accidental insurance.

Among the major attractions of the itinerary are a view of the mesmerising Carnival Parade (Day Two), sightseeing of North Goa followed by hour-long cruise ride in Panaji (Day Three) and sightseeing in South Goa (Day Four). Passengers will also be given a full day (Day Five) for leisure activities and shopping.

IRCTC Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Dr A K Manocha said that 'Goa Carnival' is an exciting and fun-filled three-day non-stop extravaganza of fun, frolic, song, music and dance, which reflects the rich and vibrant cultural traditions of the coastal state known for its rollicking beaches and swaying palm trees.

The event competes in its popularity with the Rio Carnival in Brazil, Venice Carnival in Italy and the Cologne Carnival in Germany. The Goa Carnival is very popular with national and international tourists, especially from Latin American countries.

"The all-inclusive package for the Goa trip is competitively priced and it is value for money. It will surely be a rewarding experience for the travellers," he added.

Mr Arvind Malkhede, group general manager, IRCTC (West Zone), informed that for the first time the Goa Carnival package has been launched as a joint venture between IRCTC and Goa Tourism and "is positioned at best rates matching excellent services."

He said the itinerary has been chalked out in a way that allows optimum utlization of four days by facilitating arrival at 0705 hrs at Madgaon station by Mangalore Express on Day Two (February 6) and departure at 1850 hrs from Madgaon on Day Five (February 9) by Madgaon Express.

Passengers can make the registrations and bookings on phone numbers 09004082810 and 9004082874 or SMS "CARNIVAL" to 9004082874.