Best Food to Order on Train Between Delhi and Mumbai

The Delhi-Mumbai train route covers close to 1,384 km and takes anywhere between 15 and 17 hours on the fastest trains. That is a long time to travel on an empty stomach or on a single packet of biscuits. IRCTC eCatering solves this problem. You can order fresh food from trusted restaurants and have it delivered straight to you, at stations along the way.

Quick Info

Route – Delhi to Mumbai (and Mumbai to Delhi)

Distance – Around 1,384 km

Journey time – 15 to 17 hours on Rajdhani and Duronto trains

How to order – IRCTC eCatering website , Food on Track app

Key food stations – Kota, Ratlam, Vadodara, Surat, Mathura

Payment modes – UPI, card, net banking, or cash on delivery

Order window – Any time after booking, up to 60-90 minutes before the delivery station

How IRCTC eCatering Works

Ordering food on eCatering takes only a few minutes. You do not need to plan your meals in advance or carry packed food from home.

1. Open the IRCTC eCatering website or Food on Track official app, or send a WhatsApp message to the eCatering number.
2. Enter your PNR number. You will find it printed on your ticket.
3. Check the list of stations where food delivery is available on your route.
4. Pick a restaurant and choose your dishes from the menu.
5. Select your delivery station and pay online, or choose cash on delivery.
6. Your food reaches you when the train halts at that station.

You can place your order any time after booking your ticket, and even after your journey has started. Just order at least 60 to 90 minutes before the train reaches your chosen station, so the restaurant has enough time to prepare and deliver your food.

Best Food to Order at Each Station

The Delhi-Mumbai route passes through food-rich states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. Each major stop has its own specialty, so you can taste your way across India instead of eating the same meal for 15 hours.

Kota: Start with a Crunchy Classic

Kota Junction is known for its pyaaz kachori, a deep-fried pastry stuffed with spiced onions and lentils. Order it hot with the sweet-tangy chutney that comes with it. It works well as a starter or an evening snack.

Ratlam: A Spicy, Light Bite

Ratlam is famous for its sev, a crunchy namkeen mix flavoured with local spices. Pair it with a hot cup of tea for a quick pick-me-up between meals.

Vadodara: A Proper Meal

You can order a full meal at Vadodara. Try the sev usal, a spicy curry made from dried peas and topped with sev, onions, and chutneys. If you want something more filling, order a Gujarati thali. It usually includes dal, sabzi, roti, rice, and a sweet, all in one plate.

Surat: Soft and Steamed

Surat is known for locho, a soft, steamed snack made from gram flour and served with butter, sev, and chutneys. It is light on the stomach and works well if you want to avoid heavy, fried food during a long journey.

Mathura: End on a Sweet Note

If your route passes through Mathura, order the famous Mathura ke pede. This soft milk sweet makes a good dessert after lunch or dinner and travels well if you want to carry a few pieces for later.

What to Order Based on Meal Time

• Breakfast: Go for something light, like poha, upma, or sandwiches. Add a hot tea or coffee to start the day.
• Lunch: Order a full thali or a rice-and-curry combo from Vadodara or nearby stations. This keeps you full for the rest of the journey.
• Evening snack: Pick a quick bite like Kota kachori or Ratlam sev with tea.
• Dinner: Choose a familiar meal like dal-rice, roti-sabzi, or biryani. Avoid very oily or spicy food late at night, especially if you plan to sleep soon after.

Tips for a Smooth Food Delivery

• Double-check your PNR before placing the order.
• Order 60 to 90 minutes before your train reaches the delivery station. If the train is running late, place your order a little earlier.
• Keep your phone switched on.
• If you are travelling with family, order a mix of dishes so everyone gets something they like.
• Choose cash on delivery if you prefer to pay only when the food actually arrives.

Final Thoughts

A 15-hour train ride does not have to mean stale snacks, sub-par station food or an empty stomach. With IRCTC eCatering, you can order fresh, hygienic food from well-known restaurants at Kota, Ratlam, Vadodara, Surat, and other stations along the Delhi-Mumbai route. Plan your meals around your journey, order a little ahead of time, and enjoy a proper taste of India as you travel.