Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Indian Railways to Allow Travel Date Change for confirmed Tickets

Passengers will soon be able to modify their journey dates without canceling or rebooking their tickets.

In a major relief for train travelers across the country, Indian Railways is set to introduce a new flexible travel date modification feature. This upcoming service will allow passengers to change the travel date of confirmed tickets without going through the hassle of cancellation, refunds, and rebooking.

Indian Railways-travel date change 

This initiative is part of Indian Railways’ continued efforts to enhance passenger convenience, streamline bookings, and reduce last-minute cancellations

What’s New in the Feature?

Traditionally, passengers who needed to change their travel plans were required to cancel their confirmed ticket and book a new one, often incurring cancellation charges and facing non-availability of seats.

With the new feature:

  • ✅ Passengers can change the date of travel directly on their confirmed ticket.

  • 💰 No need for cancellation or rebooking, saving time and money.

  • 🖥️ The change can be made easily through IRCTC’s official website or mobile app.

  • 🪙 A nominal fee may be applicable for date modification.

  • ⏳ The facility will be available up to a specific time before departure.

Why This Move Matters

The upcoming date change feature is expected to bring greater flexibility and traveler satisfaction:

  • 📅 Ideal for passengers with last-minute plan changes.

  • 🪙 Reduces cancellation charges and the financial burden on travelers.

  • 🛏️ Increases seat utilization and lowers wastage of reserved seats.

  • 🧭 Encourages more passengers to choose train travel for flexible journeys.

This change aligns with Indian Railways’ goal of modernizing services and making the travel experience more user-friendly and efficient.

How Passengers Can Use the Feature (Once Launched)

Although the service is yet to be officially rolled out, Indian Railways is expected to offer:

  1. Log in to IRCTC (website or app).

  2. Go to “Booked Ticket History”.

  3. Select the confirmed ticket you wish to modify.

  4. Click on “Change Travel Date”.

  5. Choose a new date and confirm the modification.

  6. Pay the applicable nominal rescheduling fee.

A new e-ticket will be generated with the updated date, while the same PNR may be retained or updated as per the system’s design.

Official Rollout Expected Soon

The Ministry of Railways is in the final stages of planning and testing this feature to ensure smooth implementation. Once live, the facility is expected to benefit millions of passengers who travel daily and long-distance across India.

👉 Important: The date change option will likely be subject to seat availability, train class, and specific time limits before the scheduled departure.

Tips for Travelers

  • 🔸 Always make changes well before departure to avoid last-minute issues.

  • 🔸 Check availability before modifying the travel date.

  • 🔸 Keep your IRCTC login credentials secure.

  • 🔸 Download the updated ticket after modification.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Smarter Train Travel

This new date change feature is a game-changer for Indian Railway passengers. By eliminating the need to cancel and rebook tickets, travelers will save time, money, and effort — while enjoying a more flexible travel experience.

As India’s rail network continues to modernize, features like this reaffirm Indian Railways’ commitment to passenger comfort, convenience, and innovation.

👉 Stay tuned for the official launch announcement on IRCTC’s website

 Explore Buddhist Circuit Tourist Train, operated by IRCTC.

 

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Kambala 2025: Karnataka’s Thrilling Buffalo Race Festival

 Every winter, coastal Karnataka transforms into a vibrant theatrical stage of mud, water, energy, and tradition — welcome to Kambala, the buffalo race festival that blends sport, folklore, and village pride. In 2025, Kambala’s calendar is packed with events, government support, and renewed enthusiasm from locals and tourists alike. 

Kambala Festival 2025

What Is Kambala

  • Kambala is an age-old buffalo racing tradition held in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts in Karnataka.

  • The name comes from kampa-kalakampa meaning “slushy, muddy” and kala meaning “field,” reflecting the waterlogged racetracks.

  • Initially a rural farming ritual to thank nature and deities for healthy livestock and good harvests, Kambala has evolved into a competitive rural sport with enthusiastic spectator crowds.

2025 Kambala Season — Dates, Events & Highlights

📅 Dates & Venues

  • The 2025 Kambala season kicks off on November 15, starting at Panapila, and runs through April 2026.

  • A total of 25 events are scheduled across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

  • Government support is in place: 20 events will be financially backed in the coastal districts (16 in DK, 4 in Udupi).

Some key venue dates:

DateLocation
Nov 15, 2025Panapila
Nov 22Kodange
Nov 29Kakkepadavu
Dec 6Hokkadigoli
Dec 13Baradi
Dec 20Mulki Arasu
Dec 27Mangalore (Bangrakooluru)
Jan 3, 2026Miyaru
Jan 10Naringana
Jan 17Adve
Jan 24Moodabidri
Jan 31Aikala
Feb 7Puttur
Feb 14Jeppu
Feb 21Vamanjoor
Feb 28Yermal
Mar 7Bantwala
Mar 15Bangadi
Mar 21Venoor
Mar 28Uppinangadi
Apr 4Gurpura
Apr 11Balkunje
Apr 18Harekala
Apr 25Badagabettu

Sponsorship & Government Role

  • The State Government has committed ₹40 lakh to promote Kambala in coastal districts.

  • Organizers have pushed for formal recognition by establishing the Kambala Federation of India (KFI).

  • Notably, in 2025, two champion buffaloes — Appu and Tonse — died tragically in a stable fire, highlighting the emotional stakes and risks for racing communities.

How Kambala Works: Categories, Format & Race Day

🐂 Categories & Styles

Kambala events are grouped under different race styles:

  • Negilu (Plough / Nāyer) — Light plough attached to buffaloes; entry-level races

  • Hagga (Rope / Bal) — Buffalo pairs tied with a rope; jockey runs alongside

  • Adda Halage — The jockey stands on a plank placed between the buffalo pair as they race through the muddy track

  • Kane Halage — A plank with holes causes water to splash out as the buffaloes run, and splash height is part of the contest

On race day:

  1. Buffalo parade & inspection: Owners display their animals, ensuring they are in prime condition.

  2. Track setup: Two parallel muddy tracks filled with water are prepared.

  3. The race: Pairs of buffaloes run with their jockeys (runner) holding or standing per the category. The team reaching the finish line first, or achieving highest splash (in water categories), wins.

  4. Spectator engagement: Villagers and tourists line the fields with whistles, drums, cheering — creating an electrifying atmosphere.

⚖️ Legal & Ethical Context

  • Kambala was once banned by the Supreme Court (2014) over animal cruelty concerns.

  • In 2017, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Bill legalized it again under regulated conditions.

  • Organizers and local bodies now emphasize strict safety, humane handling, and guidelines to avoid animal harm.

Visiting Kambala as a Travel Experience

✅ Tips for Tourists

  • Plan early: Check local media or tourism offices for the official schedule — events shift slightly each year.

  • Arrive morning or mid-day: Most races happen in daylight — aim for earliest events for better experience.

  • Bring essentials: Waterproof footwear, camera with zoom, sunscreen, and a hat.

  • Respect local culture: Avoid interfering with rituals or buffalo setups; ask before photographing close-up.

  • Support local stalls: Eat, shop, and interact locally to contribute to the community’s economy.

🏨 Where to Stay & How to Reach

  • Base towns: Mangalore, Udupi, Moodabidri are good hubs for lodging.

  • Connectivity: Mangalore International Airport, local rail & road networks connect to coastal Karnataka.

  • Travel window: November to March is ideal for combining Kambala with coastal and temple tourism.

Why Kambala 2025 Is Special

  • Official support: Government backing and funding for 20 events signal renewed institutional support.

  • Cultural revival: The sheer number of events (25 scheduled) and attempts to formalize via KFI show Kambala’s transformation from rural ritual to heritage sport.

  • Spotlight on communities: The tragic fire loss of famous buffaloes (Appu & Tonse) in 2025 underscores how much local communities care and invest in these traditions.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Q: When does Kambala start each year?
The Kambala season in Karnataka typically begins in November and runs through March/April.

Q: Where are Kambala races held?
Most races happen in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts (Tulu Nadu area), in villages like Panapila, Kakkepadavu, Hokkadigoli, Puttur, etc.

Q: How do the buffaloes and jockeys race?
Buffaloes are paired (tied with plough or rope) and raced on muddy, waterlogged tracks. The jockey either runs alongside, stands on a plank (Adda Halage), or the track is rigged to splash water (Kane Halage).

Q: Is Kambala legal now?
Yes — after being temporarily banned, Kambala was re-legalized in Karnataka through an amendment in 2017, under conditions to protect animal welfare.

Q: Can tourists attend Kambala?
Yes — many events are open to the public and popular among tourists for their cultural spectacle and photo opportunities.

Conclusion

Kambala 2025 is not just a festival — it's a celebration of Karnataka’s soul, where buffalo strength, farmer pride, folklore, and community joy come alive in muddy tracks under cheering skies. For travelers keen on culture, spectacle, and authentic traditions, attending a Kambala race offers one of the most vivid, immersive windows into India’s rural heritage.


 

Kantara Movie Tourism: Explore Buta Kola, Kambala & Cave Temples in Karnataka

Rishab Shetty’s Kantara (2022) became a cultural phenomenon that spotlighted Karnataka’s mystical coastal traditions and rural landscapes. Filmed mainly around Keradi village (Udupi district), the movie weaves together Buta Kola (spirit worship), Kambala (buffalo races), and local temple culture—revealing a living bond between nature, faith, and folklore.

Now, with the release of Kantara Chapter 1 (October 2025), curiosity about these real-life places, rituals, and communities has reached new heights. Let’s explore how the Kantara universe is turning Karnataka into a vibrant hub for cultural tourism. 

kantara tourism

🎬 Kantara Chapter 1 — A New Wave of Cultural Travel

The prequel, Kantara Chapter 1, dives deeper into the mythic origins of the Daiva (spirit) traditions and explores the lore of Pan̄jurli Daiva and Guliga, offering breathtaking visuals of forests, ritual grounds, and ancient shrines.

How It Fuels Tourism

  • Expanded cinematic landscapes: Larger-than-life forest sets and traditional village scenes are inspiring travellers to visit real-world locations with similar beauty—coastal Karnataka, Udupi’s temple belt, and Kodagu’s sacred groves.

  • Cultural revival: The movie renews global interest in rituals like Buta Kola and festivals like Kambala, prompting heritage and film-based travel experiences.

  • Tourism surge: With screenings across India and abroad (Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam), the region’s unique folklore and landscapes are drawing new domestic and international visitors. 

🎥 “Kantara Chapter 1 isn’t just a film; it’s a cultural bridge connecting cinema, spirituality, and travel.” 

🏛️ Spotlight: Kantara Chapter 1 Shines at Rashtrapati Bhavan

In a proud moment for Indian cinema, Kantara: Chapter 1 was screened at Rashtrapati Bhavan on October 5, 2025, celebrating its profound portrayal of Karnataka’s spirit and heritage.

🎬 Director Rishab Shetty, actress Rukmini Vasanth, and producer Chaluve Gowda attended the event — marking national recognition for Kantara’s cultural depth.

The screening, attended by dignitaries and cultural leaders, underlined the film’s themes of faith, nature, and native traditions — and its power to promote heritage tourism in Karnataka’s heartland.

🌾 From local shrines to the nation’s highest halls — Kantara’s spirit now echoes across India.

kantara chapter1 -Rashtrapati Bhavan

Real-Life Locations Behind Kantara

1. Keradi Village, Udupi District

The central filming site of Kantara features lush forests, red-soil paths, and time-honoured shrines. Visitors can:

  • Walk through forest trails and traditional paddy fields.

  • Meet locals who share stories of filming and real Buta Kola rituals. 

Keradi Village

2. Sai Radha Heritage, Udupi

The elegant heritage bungalow that played the landlord’s house in the film is a real boutique stay. Its laterite architecture and serene setting give travellers a taste of Kantara’s old-world ambience. 

Sai Radha Heritage-udipi

3. Temple & Cave-Like Sites

Though Kantara’s main temple was a constructed set, real structures in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada mirror its design. Visitors can explore:

  • Hulimavu Cave Temple (near Bengaluru)

  • Badami Cave Temples (Chalukyan era, North Karnataka) 

Badami & Hulimavu Caves 

 🔥 Buta Kola — Spirit Worship of Coastal Karnataka

Buta Kola (or Daiva Nema) is a centuries-old ritual unique to Tulu Nadu. A performer, adorned in ornate costume and brass jewellery, embodies a guardian spirit (Buta/Daiva) who protects the community.

  • Meaning: The Buta symbolizes divine justice and harmony between man and nature.

  • Performance: Drums, chants, fire, and trance-like movement create a sacred atmosphere.

  • Community role: Villagers approach the spirit for blessings or mediation in disputes.

Tourists visiting from November to March can witness Buta Kola ceremonies in temple courtyards—an unforgettable glimpse into living folklore.

🕯️ “Buta Kola is a dialogue between the divine and the devoted.” 

Buta Kola-udipi

🌸 India Post Honours Bootha Kola Tradition

In a proud cultural tribute, India Post has released a Special Cover and two Picture Postcards celebrating Bootha Kola—a vibrant ritual where devotion, folklore, and tradition unite.
This initiative not only recognizes the ritual’s spiritual depth but also promotes Karnataka’s rich intangible heritage across the nation.

  • The Special Cover features intricate artwork depicting the Bhoota Kola dancer in full regalia.

  • The Picture Postcards showcase stunning visuals from the coastal districts where these rituals thrive.

  • The release highlights how Bhoota Kola, immortalized through Kantara, represents the cultural identity of Tulu Nadu and strengthens heritage tourism in Karnataka.

📮 Through its stamps and postcards, India Post preserves the living soul of Karnataka’s traditions for generations to come.  

Buta Kola-postal cover

🐃 Kambala — The Buffalo Race Festival

Kambala, showcased vividly in Kantara, is Karnataka’s thrilling buffalo race festival held in water-filled paddy fields.

  • Season: November–March (post-harvest).

  • Where: Villages like Keradi, Moodbidri, and Puttur.

  • Experience: Decorated buffaloes sprint through slushy tracks, cheered on by thousands.

  • Origin: A thanksgiving to local deities for harvest and livestock prosperity.

🐃 “Kambala is rhythm, faith, and raw power racing through the earth.” 

Kambala

Suggested Kantara Travel Circuit

PlaceHighlightsTips
Keradi VillageFilm site, local shrines, Kambala fieldsVisit Nov–Feb for Buta Kola & Kambala
Sai Radha HeritageHeritage stay from filmBook early; try Udupi cuisine
Udupi & Coastal TemplesSri Krishna Matha, heritage shrinesRespect local customs
Badami & Hulimavu CavesRock-cut temples with Kantara-like auraHire guides; carry essentials

How to Reach

  • Nearest Hub: Udupi / Kundapura

  • By Air: Mangaluru International Airport (≈ 80 km from Keradi)

  • Best Time: October–February

  • Stay: Sai Radha Heritage (Udupi), eco-homestays around Kundapura & Kodi Beach 

Sri Keshavanatheshwara Temple

Responsible Tourism Tips

  • Request permission before photographing rituals.

  • Support local artisans and performers.

  • Avoid littering; use eco-friendly transport.

  • Hire local guides for authentic stories and insights.

FAQs

Q1. What inspired Kantara: Chapter 1?
It explores the mythic roots of Daiva traditions and expands the lore introduced in Kantara (2022).

Q2. Where can visitors witness Buta Kola?
In Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts from November to March.

Q3. When is the Kambala season?
Between November and March in coastal Karnataka villages.

Q4. What did India Post release for Bootha Kola?
A Special Cover and two Picture Postcards celebrating the ritual’s cultural and spiritual depth.

Q5. Why was Kantara: Chapter 1 screened at Rashtrapati Bhavan?
The screening recognized its cultural significance and its role in promoting Karnataka’s traditions and tourism.

Conclusion

Kantara and Kantara Chapter 1 together celebrate the sacred relationship between man, spirit, and soil. Their impact extends beyond cinema—turning the forests, shrines, and traditions of Karnataka into living travel experiences.

🌾 In Karnataka’s heartland, faith still dances through forests and buffaloes still race the wind — waiting for travellers to witness their timeless story.

 

Monday, October 6, 2025

Gundala Waterfalls Telangana – Hidden Gem Near Yellandu | Weekend Trip from Hyderabad

Nestled deep in the scenic Bhadradri Kothagudem district of Telangana, Gundala Waterfalls is a mesmerizing natural retreat that remains one of the state’s best-kept secrets. Surrounded by dense forests and rocky hills, this seasonal waterfall offers an unspoiled escape from city chaos — perfect for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers alike. 

Gundala Waterfalls

About Gundala Waterfalls

Situated near Gundala village, about 12 km from Yellandu, this enchanting waterfall tumbles down the rocky slopes of the Eastern Ghats. It’s a seasonal fall, fed by monsoon streams that swell between June and October. During this time, the area transforms into a lush green paradise, echoing with the roar of cascading waters and birdsong.

Beyond its natural beauty, Gundala is also home to tribal communities, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of rural Telangana. 

Location and How to Reach

ModeDetails
By RoadThe waterfall is around 12 km from Yellandu and about 250 km from Hyderabad. You can drive via Khammam and Kothagudem; the roads are scenic with forested stretches.
By TrainNearest railway station: Kothagudem (Bhadrachalam Road) — 55 km away. Local taxis or buses are available.
By AirThe nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (~250 km). Rent a cab or take a bus to Kothagudem, then continue to Gundala by road.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Gundala Waterfalls is June to October, during and right after the monsoon.
You’ll find the waterfall at its fullest, the forest dense and vibrant, and the weather pleasantly cool.

Avoid summer months (March–May), when the flow is minimal. 

Things to Do at Gundala Waterfalls

 1. Short Trek & Forest Trail

The short hike from Gundala village to the waterfall passes through lush forest and rocky paths — an easy yet refreshing trail for adventure seekers.

 2. Photography & Sightseeing

Capture stunning landscapes, misty cascades, and reflections in calm pools. The early morning and late afternoon light are perfect for golden-hour shots.

 3. Picnic Spot

A serene place to relax with friends or family. Spread a mat, enjoy local snacks, and soak up the peaceful sound of flowing water.

 4. Explore Local Culture

Nearby tribal villages around Gundala offer glimpses of traditional Telangana life — simple homes, handmade crafts, and warm hospitality. 

Where to Stay

Gundala itself has limited stays, but you can find comfortable hotels and lodges in:

  • Yellandu (closest)

  • Kothagudem (approx. 50 km)

  • Bhadrachalam (80 km — ideal if combining your visit with temple sightseeing)

Tip: For adventurers, camping near the village is possible (with local permission). 

Food Options

There are no major restaurants near Gundala, so it’s best to carry food and drinking water.
Yellandu and Kothagudem towns have decent eateries serving Telangana-style meals, including rice, dal, spicy curries, and snacks like mirchi bajji. 

Travel Tips & Safety

  • Visit during daylight hours only.

  • Wear sturdy shoes — rocks can get slippery.

  • Carry mosquito repellent, water, and a small first-aid kit.

  • Respect the environment — avoid littering or playing loud music.

  • Avoid visiting during heavy rainfall when streams may swell suddenly. 

Weekend Trip from Hyderabad: Nature Escape to Gundala Waterfalls

Day 1:

  • Start early from Hyderabad (around 5:00 AM).

  • Breakfast en route at Khammam or Sattupalli.

  • Reach Gundala village by noon — enjoy the short trek to the waterfalls.

  • Spend your afternoon exploring the falls, taking photos, and relaxing.

  • Drive to Kothagudem or Yellandu for an overnight stay.

Day 2:

  • After breakfast, visit Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary for boating or a short forest drive.

  • Optional: Detour to Bhadrachalam Temple before heading back to Hyderabad.

  • Return journey in the evening (~6 hours drive).

⏱️ Total Distance: ~250 km one way
🗓️ Ideal Duration: 2 days / 1 night
🌿 Perfect For: Nature lovers, weekend trekkers, photographers, and peace seekers

Nearby Attractions

  • Kinnerasani Dam & Sanctuary (45 km)

  • Bhadrachalam Temple (80 km)

  • Papi Hills Boat Ride (Near Bhadrachalam)

  • Bogatha Waterfalls (150 km) — often called the Niagara of Telangana 

FAQs on Gundala Waterfalls

Q1. Is Gundala Waterfalls open throughout the year?
No, it’s best visited between June and October when the monsoon fills the streams.

Q2. Is it suitable for family trips?
Yes, it’s family-friendly if you plan your visit during the day and carry essentials.

Q3. Are there guides available?
Local villagers often assist visitors. Hiring one ensures a safe and authentic experience.

Q4. Can we swim in the waterfall?
You can enjoy splashing in shallow areas, but avoid swimming under the main fall during peak flow. 

Conclusion

Gundala Waterfalls is one of Telangana’s most picturesque and peaceful natural escapes — a destination where misty hills, forest trails, and cascading water come together in harmony. Perfect for a quick weekend getaway from Hyderabad, it offers the raw charm of nature untouched by heavy tourism.

So pack your bag, charge your camera, and let Gundala’s unfiltered beauty refresh your spirit.

 

  

TGSRTC Yatradanam: Telangana’s Free Travel Scheme 2025

In a remarkable move that blends public transport, philanthropy, and spirituality, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has introduced a pioneering program named “Yatradanam.”
This one-of-a-kind initiative invites individuals, families, corporates, and organizations to sponsor free bus journeys for underprivileged groups to pilgrimage and tourist destinations across Telangana and neighboring states.

TGSRTC Yatradanam 

With Yatradanam, TGSRTC aims to make travel a shared act of giving, ensuring that the joy of pilgrimage and exploration reaches even those who cannot afford it. 

What Is the “Yatradanam” Initiative?

“Yatradanam” is a socially driven travel donation program launched by TGSRTC in 2025.
Through this scheme, donors can fund bus trips for orphans, economically weaker students, differently abled individuals, and senior citizens.

The initiative is inspired by the ancient Indian concept of Dana (charitable giving) — combining compassion with cultural experience.

In short:

“Yatradanam” = Your Donation + Their Journey

Each sponsored trip will be managed entirely by TGSRTC, ensuring safe, comfortable, and well-organized transportation for the beneficiaries.

TGSRTC Yatradanam

Step-by-Step Guide to Participate in TGSRTC Yatradanam

For Donors (Individuals / NGOs / Corporates)

  1. Choose Your Occasion or Purpose
    You can dedicate a Yatradanam trip on a special day — birthday, wedding anniversary, religious function, or corporate CSR initiative.

  2. Select Travel Type and Destination
    Decide whether you wish to fund a pilgrimage trip, educational excursion, or tourist visit within Telangana or nearby states.
    Example destinations:

    • Yadadri Temple (Yadagirigutta)

    • Basara Saraswathi Temple

    • Bhadrachalam Sri Rama Temple

    • Vemulawada Rajarajeshwara Swamy Temple

    • Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple

    • Keesaragutta Temple

    • Warangal Thousand Pillar Temple

  3. Choose the Bus Type

    • Super Luxury, Deluxe, AC, or Express categories available based on donation level.

  4. Make a Donation / Sponsorship
    Contact your nearest TGSRTC Depot Manager or call 040-69440000 / 040-23450033 to discuss the donation process.

  5. TGSRTC Arranges the Journey

    • RTC schedules and operates the bus.

    • Beneficiaries are identified in coordination with NGOs or social welfare departments.

    • The donor’s name or organization is displayed on the bus as part of recognition.

  6. Receive Acknowledgment / Certificate

    • Donors receive an official acknowledgment from TGSRTC for transparency and appreciation.

For Beneficiaries

  1. Check Eligibility
    The scheme benefits:

    • Orphans and children from shelter homes

    • Poor students from government schools / colleges

    • Senior citizens without financial means

    • Differently abled individuals

  2. Register at Nearest RTC Depot
    Submit an application through local authorities, NGOs, or social welfare departments.

  3. Submit Documents

    • ID proof (Aadhaar / school ID)

    • Eligibility certificate (as applicable)

  4. Await Allotment / Confirmation
    TGSRTC schedules trips based on available donations and destinations.

  5. Travel Free of Cost
    Beneficiaries receive confirmation of their scheduled trip and can travel completely free under Yatradanam.

Key Features of Yatradanam

  • Transparent Process: Every donation and trip is logged and monitored by TGSRTC.

  • Social Empowerment: Connects donors directly with beneficiaries through the joy of travel.

  • Pilgrimage Tourism Boost: Promotes spiritual and rural tourism in Telangana.

  • CSR Integration: Ideal for companies seeking meaningful CSR engagement.

  • Recognition: Donors’ names displayed on buses or trip banners for acknowledgment.

Popular Routes Under Yatradanam

RouteDistance (approx.)Bus TypeHighlights
Hyderabad → Yadadri Temple70 kmSuper LuxuryFamous Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
Hyderabad → Bhadrachalam320 kmDeluxeIconic Sri Rama Temple on Godavari River
Hyderabad → Vemulawada150 kmExpressRajarajeshwara Swamy Temple
Hyderabad → Basara210 kmACSaraswathi Devi Temple – perfect for students
Warangal → Srisailam350 kmDeluxeJyotirlinga shrine of Lord Mallikarjuna

How to Contact / Apply

📞 Helpline Numbers:
040-69440000 / 040-23450033

🏢 Contact Your Nearest Depot Office:
Visit your local TGSRTC Depot Manager’s Office or Regional Office for details on Yatradanam applications, donations, and schedules.

🌐 Website:
Official TGSRTC website (search “Yatradanam” under services section once officially live).

People Also Ask (PAA)

What is Yatradanam by TGSRTC?
It’s a social travel initiative allowing donors to sponsor free bus trips for underprivileged people to pilgrim and tourist spots in Telangana.

Who can donate under Yatradanam?
Anyone — individuals, families, companies, NGOs, or associations — can sponsor buses for social causes.

Who can travel under Yatradanam?
Orphans, poor students, senior citizens, and differently abled individuals can avail free travel.

How to apply for Yatradanam travel?
Beneficiaries can apply at their nearest RTC depot or through recognized social organizations at least one week before the desired journey.

Can a donor choose the destination?
Yes, donors may suggest or choose destinations within Telangana (subject to RTC approval).

Conclusion

The TGSRTC Yatradanam initiative symbolizes the spirit of giving through travel — turning a bus ride into a blessing for those in need.
By bringing together donors, social organizations, and the state’s transport network, it opens a new chapter in inclusive tourism and compassionate connectivity.

Whether you’re an individual seeking to celebrate a special occasion meaningfully, or an NGO planning a social outreach, Yatradanam is your chance to make every journey count.