Sachkhand Express: The Only Train in India That Serves Humanity, Not Just Passengers
CHANDIGARH/SHIMLA: Over 13,000 trains crisscross India every day, but there’s only one that runs not just on tracks—but on the spirit of humanity. Meet the Sachkhand Express, the only train in the country where passengers are served free breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout a journey that stretches nearly 35 hours—no charges, no conditions.
Running between Nanded in Maharashtra and Amritsar in Punjab, Sachkhand Express (12715) covers nearly 2,000 kilometers, connecting two of Sikhism’s holiest places. But the magic of this train lies not in its route, speed, or tech—but in its soul.
Here’s what sets it apart: Onboard this train, you’ll find fresh, home-cooked meals served with a warm smile by Sikh volunteers.
No pantry car, no IRCTC, no QR code to scan. Just simple, wholesome food—kadhi-chawal, roti-sabzi, and more—cooked in nearby Gurudwaras and brought directly to your seat as part of the Sikh tradition of langar, where everyone is served equally, with dignity.
And this isn’t a one-time show. This act of kindness has been rolling strong since 1995.
Across stations like Aurangabad, Bhopal, Jhansi, Gwalior, Delhi, Ludhiana, and more, volunteers hop on with containers full of food, asking for nothing but an empty plate—and an open heart. Passengers are encouraged to carry their own tiffin or plate. That’s it.
The journey begins at Nanded, home to Hazur Sahib, one of the five takhts (seats of temporal authority) of Sikhism.
It is where Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, spent his final days. For Sikhs, the spiritual energy of this place is unmatched. Boarding the train here feels like a pilgrimage in motion.
Along the way, the train passes through several spiritual and cultural hubs.
Bhopal has historical Sikh ties; Jhansi and Gwalior carry echoes of the freedom struggle.
Then comes Delhi, where Gurudwara Bangla Sahib stands tall in the heart of the capital—a symbol of service and resilience.
The journey finally touches Ludhiana, a city rich in Sikh heritage, before heading towards its final spiritual stop.
Amritsar, the final destination, is home to the Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib)—the holiest shrine of Sikhism.
Thousands bow their heads here every day, and when Sachkhand Express rolls in, it feels like the journey has come full circle—from one sacred land to another.
But perhaps the most beautiful part of it all is this: the Sikh community never advertises it.
No posters, no influencers, no photo-ops. Unlike modern Hindu godmen who promote every morsel they give away, these volunteers simply serve and disappear, leaving behind full stomachs and fuller hearts.
It’s a moving lesson in humility, faith, and shared humanity.
The Sachkhand Express isn’t just a train. It’s a spiritual experience on rails.
It reminds us that kindness and Valour that Great Sikh Gurus Taught us, when served without ego, can travel thousands of kilometers—and still stay grounded.
I can only bow in respect wearing the Turban to these tireless volunteers who turn a regular train journey into a soul-touching experience.
#SikhSewaOnWheels #SachkhandExpress #HumanityInMotion #LangarWithoutLimits
