From breakfast to dinner, the entire journey is free; learn which trains offer free food to passengers.
Sachkhand Express: The Only Indian Train That Serves Free Meals From Breakfast to Dinner
India’s vast railway network is known for its diversity, efficiency, and the unique experiences it offers to millions of passengers every day. Among thousands of trains crisscrossing the country, there is one that truly stands out — the Sachkhand Express, a train that serves free meals from breakfast to dinner throughout the entire journey. Connecting two of India’s most sacred Sikh destinations, this train offers more than just a mode of travel — it provides passengers with a soulful and heartwarming experience.
A Train Dedicated to Faith and Service
The Sachkhand Express (Train No. 12715) runs between Nanded in Maharashtra and Amritsar in Punjab, covering a distance of approximately 2,000 kilometers. The train holds great spiritual significance, linking Takht Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded — the final resting place of Guru Gobind Singh Ji — with Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar.
What makes this journey so special is the spirit of seva (selfless service). For nearly 29 years, passengers on this route have been receiving free meals throughout the journey — a gesture inspired by the Sikh tradition of langar, where everyone, irrespective of religion or background, shares food as equals.
Free Meals for Every Passenger — From Breakfast to Dinner
From early morning breakfast to evening dinner, passengers enjoy wholesome and delicious meals served at different stations along the route. The initiative ensures that no traveler goes hungry during the long 33-hour journey. The food service is completely free, and it has been maintained continuously for nearly three decades — an extraordinary example of generosity and community service.
The meals are funded through donations made to gurdwaras along the route, particularly those connected with the Sikh pilgrimage sites. Volunteers and local committees manage the preparation and distribution of food with devotion and discipline, making this one of the most heartwarming experiences in Indian Railways.
Six Major Stops and a 33-Hour Journey
The Sachkhand Express halts at 39 stations during its journey from Nanded to Amritsar. However, the langar (community meal) is primarily served at six major stations — Delhi, Bhopal, Parbhani, Jalna, Aurangabad, and Marathwada. The schedule is planned in such a way that passengers can comfortably enjoy their meals without any rush or inconvenience.
The train covers almost 2,000 kilometers in approximately 33 hours, offering passengers a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling travel experience. Each meal break becomes not just a refueling stop but a reminder of the deep-rooted Indian values of hospitality and compassion.
A Nutritious and Flavorful Menu
The menu aboard the Sachkhand Express reflects the simplicity and nourishment of traditional Indian home-cooked food. Typical meals include kadhi-chawal, chole, dal, khichdi, and aloo-gobi — all cooked with care and served fresh. The food is both nutritious and flavorful, ensuring passengers stay energized during the long journey.
To ensure smooth service, travelers are advised to carry their own utensils, allowing everyone — whether in general, sleeper, or AC coaches — to partake in the meal equally.
A Journey Beyond Travel — A Spiritual Experience
What sets the Sachkhand Express apart is that it’s not just about transportation; it’s about emotion, faith, and shared humanity. Passengers often describe the experience as soul-soothing — where the act of eating together with strangers fosters a sense of unity and gratitude.
This train stands as a shining example of how spirituality and service can blend seamlessly with modern travel. It offers more than convenience — it offers connection. For many pilgrims, especially those visiting sacred Sikh sites, this journey becomes a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with devotion, peace, and joy.
A Symbol of India’s Rich Cultural Spirit
In an age where convenience often comes at a price, the Sachkhand Express continues to uphold the value of seva by offering free meals for all. It reminds travelers that kindness and compassion are still at the heart of India’s cultural fabric.
From breakfast to dinner, from Nanded to Amritsar, this remarkable train ensures that every traveler not only reaches their destination safely but also experiences the warmth of community and the taste of generosity along the way.
