Vande Bharat Express is India’s first semi-high-speed train that runs on various routes across the country. It offers passengers a comfortable and convenient travel experience, with features like automatic doors, bio-vacuum toilets, Wi-Fi, CCTV cameras, and LED lighting. But many people have one question: Is food free in Vande Bharat Express?
This blog will answer this question and provide information about the food options and prices in Vande Bharat Express.
Is Food Free in Vande Bharat Express?
The short answer is: No, food is not free on Vande Bharat Express. You must pay for your food when booking tickets or on the train. However, you can also opt for a ‘No Food’ option if you do not want to have food on the train.
The food prices on Vande Bharat Express vary depending on the type of journey and the carriage. For a minimum journey, food will cost Rs 65 for a vegetarian or non-vegetarian meal. For a full-time passenger, food will cost Rs 350 in a chair car or Rs 105 in an executive car.
The food is brought to base stations and stored in separate containers. You can choose whether you want vegetarian or non-vegetarian food when booking your tickets. Additionally, you can order food on the train, but you have to pay an extra Rs 50 for it.
The food is served in different time zones, such as morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner. You can also get extra tea or coffee on demand without an extra charge. The menu includes items like idli, vada, bread omelet, cutlet, soup, rice dish, Indian bread, dal, veg dish, non-veg dish, dry veg, branded curd, dessert, snack boxes, dry fruits, and tetra pack drink.
All passengers will receive water and a newspaper for free.
Overview of Vande Bharat Express:
Vande Bharat Express is India’s inaugural semi-high-speed train, traversing diverse routes throughout the country.
It provides passengers with a comfortable and convenient travel experience through various innovative features, including automatic doors, bio-vacuum toilets, Wi-Fi connectivity, CCTV cameras, and LED lighting.
Highlighted Features and Services:
- Speed: Distinguishing itself as the fastest train in India, Vande Bharat Express can reach a maximum speed of 180 km/h.
- Safety: Ensuring passenger safety, the train is equipped with advanced braking systems, fire and smoke detection mechanisms, and anti-collision devices.
- Comfort: Passengers enjoy spacious and ergonomic seats, complete with adjustable headrests, footrests, and armrests. Individual reading lights and charging points contribute to an enhanced travel experience.
- Entertainment: The train offers entertainment options through a GPS-based passenger information system, an on-board infotainment system, and Wi-Fi facilities.
- Accessibility: Addressing the needs of differently-abled passengers, Vande Bharat Express features a specially designed coach with a wheelchair-friendly toilet, a Braille-embedded coach number, and a sliding door.
Catering Services on Vande Bharat Express:
A vital aspect of the Vande Bharat Express experience is its diverse catering services, offering many meals and snacks for passengers. Contrary to a prevalent misconception, food on Vande Bharat Express is not free.
Passengers can choose a ‘No Food‘, bring their meals, or purchase from vendors. The meticulously curated menu adheres to FSSAI standards, ensuring quality and variety.
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Vande Bharat Express food price
- The payment for food can be made either during the ticket booking process or directly on the train.
- Food prices vary based on the type of journey and the specific carriage.
Quality:
- Food is meticulously transported to base stations and stored in separate containers to maintain its freshness and hygiene.
- The food strictly adheres to the standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
Variety:
- The extensive food menu caters to diverse preferences and includes items such as idli, vada, bread omelet, cutlet, soup, rice dishes, Indian bread, dal, vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, dry vegetables, branded curd, desserts, snack boxes, dry fruits, and tetra pack drinks.
- The menu adapts to regional and seasonal variations, ensuring a dynamic and varied culinary experience for passengers.
Clarification on “Free” Food
There is a widespread misconception suggesting that food on Vande Bharat Express is complimentary. Many people inquire, “Is food included in the Vande Bharat Express ticket?” and assume that it is part of the ticket.
However, this is not accurate. Contrary to the misconception, food is not provided free of charge on Vande Bharat Express. Passengers are required to pay for their meals either during the ticket booking process or on the train.
However, there are certain complimentary items extended to all passengers, including:
- Water: All passengers receive water bottles at no additional cost. The water is purified, mineralized, and packaged in eco-friendly paper bottles.
- Newspaper: Complimentary newspapers are provided to all passengers, catering to diverse language preferences, including Hindi, English, Tamil, and Bengali.
- Tea or Coffee: Passengers can consume tea or coffee on demand without incurring extra charges. These beverages are served in paper cups equipped with lids.
Class-Specific Details on Vande Bharat Express:
Vande Bharat Express comprises two distinct classes of coaches: Executive Class and Chair Car, with 56 and 78 seats, respectively, arranged in a 2×2 configuration in both classes.
Noteworthy distinctions in food services between the classes include:
1. Price:
Food prices are higher in the Executive Class compared to the Chair Car.
- For a minimum journey, the cost of a vegetarian or non-vegetarian meal is Rs 65.
- For a full-time passenger, food expenses amount to Rs 350 in a Chair Car or Rs 105 in an Executive Car.
2. Menu:
- The Executive Class boasts a more extensive and elaborate food menu than the Chair Car.
- Executive Class passengers enjoy additional items such as soup, dry fruits, and branded curd, enhancing their culinary experience beyond what is offered to Chair Car passengers.
Service:
- A more personalized touch characterizes food service in the Executive Class.
- Executive Class passengers have their meals served on trays, enhancing the dining experience.
- In contrast, Chair Car passengers receive their food in boxes, representing a slightly different approach to service delivery.
Reservation and Pre-Booking Options on Vande Bharat Express:
When securing meals on Vande Bharat Express, passengers are presented with two alternatives: pre-booking or ordering on the train. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of each option:
1. Pre-booking:
- Pre-book your meals during the online or offline ticket booking process.
- Specify preferences, such as choosing between vegetarian or non-vegetarian options, and communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies.
- Enjoy cost savings, as the pre-booked food prices are lower compared to purchasing on the train.
- Note that once you pre-book your meals, changes or cancellations are not permitted.
2. Ordering on the Train:
- Place meal orders directly on the train through the on-board staff or the infotainment system.
- Payment options include cash or card, and passengers receive a receipt for their orders.
- Have the flexibility to order additional items or snacks beyond the pre-booked menu.
- Be aware that there is an additional charge of Rs 50 for ordering on the train.
- Keep in mind that the availability of your preferred food choice may be limited when ordering on the train.
In summary, while pre-booking provides cost savings and allows for specific meal preferences, ordering on the train offers flexibility but comes with an extra charge and potential limitations in choice availability.
Vande Bharat Express Food Timings
Based on web search results, the timing of serving food in Vande Bharat Express may vary depending on the route and the duration of the journey. However, here are some general guidelines:
| Meal | Timing |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Lunch | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM |
| Snacks | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Dinner | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
Conclusion
In demystifying the question, “Is food free in Vande Bharat Express?” the answer becomes clear—no, it is not. Vande Bharat Express provides a comprehensive culinary experience with diverse meal options, each thoughtfully curated and adhering to high standards.
While passengers enjoy complimentary water, newspapers, and tea or coffee, the intricacies of the food service involve a cost. Understanding the distinction between complementary offerings and paid food services enriches the travel experience on this exceptional semi-high-speed train.
So, as you embark on your journey aboard Vande Bharat Express, savor the flavors of its meticulously crafted cuisine, knowing that each delightful bite contributes to an unforgettable travel adventure.