Travelling by train in India is a fantastic opportunity to not only explore the scenic beauty of the country but also savour its diverse culinary delights. If you're a fan of authentic Gujarati cuisine, you're in for a treat during your train journey. Ordering Gujarati meals on trains has become more convenient than ever, thanks to Indian Railways' e-catering services. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of ordering delicious Gujarati meals on trains.
Plan Ahead
Before you embark on your train journey, it's essential to plan your meals and decide when you'd like to enjoy them. Take into account the departure time, online food order in train, the duration of your journey, and your dietary preferences. Having a rough idea of your meal choices will make the ordering process smoother.
Choose an E-Catering Platform
Indian Railways offers e-catering services through various online platforms and mobile apps, making it convenient for passengers to browse menus, place orders, and make payments digitally. Here are some popular e-catering platforms you can use:
IRCTC eCatering: As the official catering arm of Indian Railways, IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) provides e-catering services. You can access their website or mobile app to place orders.
Gofoodieonline: Gofoodieonline is a dedicated platform for ordering train food. It offers a user-friendly interface and a wide variety of restaurant options to choose from.
Enter Your Travel Details
After choosing an e-catering platform, you'll need to enter your travel details, which typically include your train number, check pnr status, date of journey, and the boarding or destination station. Providing this information helps the platform determine the available food options at your chosen station.
Browse the Menu
Once you've entered your travel details, you'll be presented with a menu of food options available for your journey. The menu will include a variety of cuisines, including Gujarati dishes, as well as regional specialities and popular Indian fare. Take your time to explore the menu.
Select Your Gujarati Favorites
Browse the menu to find your favourite Gujarati dishes. Whether it's dhokla, thepla, undhiyu, or shrikhand, you're likely to find a range of options to satisfy your cravings. Select the dishes you'd like to order, and be sure to check the prices, portion sizes, and any additional items like puris or rice.
Customize Your Order (Optional)
Many e-catering platforms allow you to customize your order to suit your preferences. You can specify the level of spiciness, request special dietary requirements, or make additional notes about your order. This ensures that your meal is prepared just the way you like it.
Add Items to Your Cart
After selecting your desired Gujarati dishes and making any necessary customizations, add them to your cart. Take a moment to review your order, double-check the items, and ensure that everything is accurate. This step helps prevent any mistakes or discrepancies in your order.
Proceed to Payment
Once you're satisfied with your order, proceed to the payment section. E-catering platforms offer multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and net banking. Choose your preferred payment method and complete the transaction securely.
Confirm Your Order
After making the payment, you'll receive a confirmation of your order. This confirmation typically includes details such as your order number, the restaurant providing the food, and the estimated delivery time. Keep this confirmation handy for reference.
Await Delivery
Now, sit back and relax as you enjoy your train journey while awaiting the delivery of your Gujarati feast. E-catering platforms provide real-time tracking, allowing you to monitor the status of your order. You'll receive notifications as your meal gets prepared and when it's out for delivery.
Collect Your Meal
As your train approaches the designated station where your food is to be delivered, make sure you have your order confirmation and identification ready. When the delivery arrives, show your confirmation to the delivery person and collect your delectable Gujarati meal.
Savour the Flavors
Now comes the most enjoyable part – savouring the authentic Gujarati flavours right in the comfort of your train compartment. Open your meal containers and relish the dhokla, thepla, or any other Gujarati specialities you've ordered. Don't forget to pair them with traditional accompaniments like chutney or buttermilk.
Dispose of Waste Responsibly
After enjoying your meal, make sure to dispose of any waste, such as food containers and wrappers, in the provided trash bags or bins on the train. Keeping your environment clean is essential for a comfortable journey for everyone.
Leave Feedback (Optional)
Many e-catering platforms allow passengers to leave feedback on their food and delivery experience. Sharing your feedback can help improve the quality of service and provide valuable insights to fellow travellers.
Conclusion
Ordering Gujarati meals on trains is a straightforward process that can enhance your train journey with delightful flavours and convenience. By following these steps, you can enjoy a variety of Gujarati delicacies, from dhokla and thepla to undhiyu and shrikhand, right at your seat. So, the next time you're on a train journey in India and craving authentic Gujarati cuisine, use e-catering services to make your culinary wishes come true. It's an experience that combines the joy of travel with the pleasure of savouring regional flavours.
