NEW DELHI: Marriages are no longer made in heaven. Young couples with stars in their eyes and coin in their pockets are finding outre new ways to wed—suspended from ropes or diving into the ocean to say “I do”. Tagging on to this trend, the Indian Railways is working to offer an unique marriage experience with Wedding on Wheels, a customised package with five-star fine dining, decor and ceremonies in a luxury or semi-luxury train while chugging to beaches or snow-capped mountains.
The idea is similar to destination weddings or booking cruises for wedding parties. The plan is the idea of Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), a subsidiary of the Indian Railways. According to IRCTC, there is a vast potential for the concept as it offers a completely off-track experience.
IRCTC runs one of the most luxurious trains in the world, Maharajas’ Express. Indian Railways, along with state tourism boards, also operates luxury trains such as Palace on Wheels, Deccan Odyssey, Golden Chariot and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. The entire wedding package can be customised according to needs, such as choosing luxury or semi-luxury coaches, travel circuits, food, number of guests and decoration. If someone is really up for opulence and indulgence, there will be spas and saunas worth sinning for on board the trains.
“It’s similar to offering everything one could expect during a wedding held in a hotel, resort or farmhouse. There will be the best of everything, managed by experts to make it one of the most memorable events for the bride, groom and their families,” a railways official said.
Circuits can be designed in South Indian, Christian or Portugese styles also. Cost will depend on facilities availed. IRCTC hopes to attract NRIs and foreigners, who fancy getting married in palaces and resorts.
“We are finalising the finer details and will launch these packages on demand. We are hoping it’s a huge success,” the official added.