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The Uttar Pradesh government, in partnership with Indian Railways, has introduced a first-of-its-kind Vistadome bus service that connects the Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary to the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, marking a major step to promote ecotourism and draw in nature lovers.

Uttar Pradesh is the first state in India to provide a forest safari experience via a Vistadome train thanks to this innovative effort.

The specifically made carriages provide stunning panoramic views of the woodland surroundings thanks to their transparent roofs and wide glass windows. Travelers can fully experience the region’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty thanks to this exclusive service.

Based on the increasing interest and favorable comments from visitors, the service, which is now only available on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), is anticipated to be extended to everyday operations. In addition to enhancing nature-based tourism, the project has the potential to create jobs locally and strengthen the local economy.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is working to brand the state’s forest zones under the theme “One Destination, Three Forests,” combining Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat, and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary to provide a cohesive and exciting tourist experience through the Vistadome service, said UP Tourism Director Prakhar Mishra on Saturday.

This initiative was started by the Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board to provide nature trails and jungle safari experiences all year round. For a reasonable price of about Rs 275 per tourist, travelers may take a 107-kilometer, approximately 4-hour, 25-minute trip through the jungle from Katarniaghat to Dudhwa.

Additionally, specific travel packages from Lucknow to Katarniaghat are being prepared by the Board, and subsidies will be provided to make them more affordable.

The Bichia to Mailani Tourist Passenger Train (No. 52259) now operates the service; it leaves Bichia (Bahraich) at 11:45 am and reaches Mailani (Lakhimpur Kheri) at 4:10 pm.

At 6:05 am, the return train (No. 52260) leaves Mailani and arrives in Bichia at 10:30 am. Bichia, Manjhara Purab, Khairatia Bandh Road, Tikunia, Belerayan, Dudhwa, Palia Kalan, Bhira Kheri, and Mailani are the nine stations where the train stops along the route.

The route offers a variety of natural scenery, including marshes, meadows, farmlands, and woods, in addition to forests and animal sanctuaries, guaranteeing a picturesque ride even during the rainy season.

By including homestay owners, resort operators, and travel agencies, this creative endeavor is anticipated to strengthen the local economy, generate jobs, and boost tourism in the area.

For kids from government schools, the Youth Tourism Club also arranges monthly guided trips. In order to promote the experience online and increase awareness of biodiversity protection, familiarization (fame) excursions for influencers and travel bloggers are also being organized.