How IRCTC eCatering Brings Diwali to Your Train Journey

Everyone is gearing up to celebrate the much-awaited festival of Diwali, arriving soon. Here, we will guide you on ordering delicious Diwali sweets and special foods for your train journey through IRCTC eCatering. The festival of lights is here, let’s start the celebrations!

Significance of Diwali/Deepawali

Diwali is one of the most important festivals and is celebrated worldwide, beyond just India. The way it’s celebrated varies by region:

• In North India, it commemorates Lord Rama and Mata Sita’s return after defeating Ravana.
• South Indians celebrate Deepavali in memory of Narakasura’s defeat.
• Odisha, Assam, and West Bengal celebrate the vibrant festival of Kali Puja during this time.

Through the different customs across states, one thing remains common: the festival celebrates light over darkness, good over evil, and renewal of hope.

How People Celebrate Diwali

Diwali is marked by happiness, reflection, and dispelling darkness. Common festive traditions include:

• Sparkling Clean Homes: Families clean and declutter so homes shine bright.
• Decor & Light: Homes are decorated with a mesmerising array of Diyas, Kandils, Rangoli, and other ornamental embellishments, setting the stage for a glowing celebration.
• Sweets & Feasts: Special Diwali sweets and meals are prepared & savoured with joy.
• Pooja to Maa Laxmi: Families worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, seeking abundance and blessings.

Diwali is a testament to India’s cultural richness. Even with regional differences, exchanging sweets and gifts remains a beautiful, unifying gesture. Diwali falls in the Hindu month of Kartika, usually in October or November, illuminating hearts everywhere.

Food & Traditions of Diwali

No Diwali celebration is complete without delicious food. It is always accompanied by special Diwali sweets and Diwali food items. People from different parts of the country prepare unique Diwali festival foods to celebrate the occasion. People make Indian Diwali sweets and snacks too. Unlike most Indian celebrations, this festival does not require anybody to fast in order to celebrate. Rather, sumptuous feasts with in-season food are the celebration’s hallmark. But the Diwali special sweets are what bring in the most attention.

The most exciting part of the festival is usually the third day, when people visit their relatives, grandparents, light fireworks, and have delicious Diwali food. A lot of people also buy new clothes at this time of year. The festivities continue throughout the next few days.

Explore the five-day festivities of Diwali 2025 with us!

• Dhanteras: Saturday, October 18, 2025 – The festival’s first day honors wealth with prayers to Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi. Homes are cleaned, and many buy gold or utensils as auspicious gifts.
• Naraka Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali): Sunday, October 19, 2025 – Celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over Narakasura. People wake early, take ritual baths, wear fresh clothes, and decorate with rangoli.
• Diwali & Lakshmi Puja: Monday – Tuesday, October 20 – 21, 2025 – The festival’s main day spans over 2 days this year, due to some starry alignments! This day celebrates the triumph of good over evil. Homes glow with diyas and lights. Devotees worship Lakshmi for prosperity and exchange sweets.
• Govardhan Puja: Wednesday, October 22, 2025 – Honors Lord Krishna’s lifting of Govardhan Hill with grand food offerings and prayers, especially celebrated in North India.
• Bhai Dooj: Thursday, October 23, 2025 – Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters with tilak ceremonies, sweets, and prayers for long lives.

Special Diwali Sweets & Diwali Food on Train

In case you’re wondering what kinds of foods you may enjoy on your train trip before you finally visit your relatives, we are here to help you out! IRCTC eCatering is simplifying this process to make your life easier. You will get fresh and delicious snacks as well as special Diwali sweets delivered directly to your train seat. We’ve compiled a list of some delicious Diwali dishes and sweets to spice up your train journey feast.

IRCTC eCatering makes it easier for you to order Diwali food in train. You can get your favourite Indian Diwali sweets as well as snacks from your favourite eateries and restaurants. This eliminates the hassle of carrying celebratory food on your train journey. At the same time lets you enjoy the festival even when you are travelling!

For instance, you can place an order for some delicious Kaju Barfi, mouth-watering Gulab Jamun, or some creamy Rabdi with IRCTC eCatering and get its delivery right at your train seat.

Popular Diwali Special Foods

Biryani

Loved by food fans worldwide, Biryani is a top choice for flavor and aroma. In India, every region adds unique spices, making each plate a new experience. North and South India both treasure Biryani, serving it as a festival must-have.

Chole Bhature

This Punjabi classic needs no introduction. Fluffy bhature, rich chole, and tangy onions come together for a complete, satisfying meal. Every bite bursts with spice and tradition.

Samosas

Crispy, golden pastries packed with spiced potatoes, peas, or meat. Try triangles, cones, or half-moon shapes, each samosa promises flavor and crunch. It’s a train snack staple and festive favorite.

Pizza – Diwali Special Food on Train

Everyone loves pizza, and IRCTC eCatering brings it to your train journey in many tasty styles. Order your favorite pizzas or combine them with traditional Diwali sweets using the Food on Track app.

Aloo Tikki

Enjoy round, crispy potato patties served with mint or tamarind chutney. Aloo Tikki tastes like hash browns but packs an Indian punch, crispy outside and soft inside.

Paneer Tikka

Soft paneer cubes coated in smoky spices, grilled to perfection. Paneer Tikka is the ultimate party snack for vegetarians and a hit with all foodies.

Onion Bhaji

Hot onion bhajis, or pyaz ke pakode, combine onions, gram flour, and spices fried until golden. Pair these with a steamy drink to get the true taste of Indian festivities.

Some Beloved Diwali Snacks

Gujjias

Gujjias are a highlight of every Maharashtrian Diwali feast. Their crisp, golden shell surrounds a delightful, sweet filling. From Gujarati Ghughra to Goan Neuri, every region boasts its take on this beloved crescent-shaped treat.

Shakarpare

Shakarpare are bite-sized, diamond-shaped biscuits dusted with sugar, an essential part of Maharashtra’s Diwali snacks. Kids and adults crave these sweet, crunchy, and utterly satisfying nibbles.

Namakpare

Salty, crunchy namakpare pairs perfectly with hot tea. Tired of sweets? Grab these savory bites for variety and flavor on your journey.

Pinni

Pinni is Punjab’s winter Diwali delight, created from whole wheat, khoya, dry fruits, and rich ghee. Toasted to a golden glow, then shaped into laddoos, this dessert is decadent and perfect for the festive season.

Murukku

Murukku is South India’s favorite crunchy snack, made from rice flour and spices. In North India, it’s called chakli. Easy to store, Murukku keeps fresh for months, making it ideal for Diwali train snacks.

Order Diwali Sweets on Train via IRCTC eCatering

Enjoy these classic sweets without carrying them yourself!

Gulab Jamun

Soft, syrupy Gulab Jamun is the sweetest star of Diwali feasts. Each warm bite melts in your mouth, wrapping up meals with a taste of celebration. Make your journey sweeter, order Gulab Jamun online from IRCTC eCatering or the Food on Track app and enjoy it delivered hot to your train seat.

Sandesh

The pride of West Bengal and Odisha, Sandesh is a must for Diwali. Each piece is crafted for both beauty and flavor, with many local variations. Get Sandesh delivered to your train seat with IRCTC eCatering and let every bite brighten your festival on the go.

Kheer Mohan

Kheer Mohan, the rich cousin of Rasgulla, offers a firmer bite and intense syrupy flavor. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, perfect for on-the-go Diwali celebrations. Order Kheer Mohan on the Food on Track app for pure festive bliss, right at your seat.

Rabdi

Lush, creamy Rabdi is North India’s answer to Diwali indulgence. Treat yourself on the train, order Rabdi from IRCTC eCatering for a spoonful of festive luxury during your journey.

Kaju Katli/Kaju Barfi

Kaju Katli stands at the top of the Diwali sweets chart, famed for its luxe taste and delicate finish. IRCTC eCatering brings this iconic mithai straight to your seat, just order online for instant celebration on every mile.

Rajasthani Barfi

Savor pure Rajasthani tradition with every piece of this delicious sweet, also known as besan barfi. Place your order on the IRCTC eCatering website or app, and celebrate Diwali aboard the train with classic flavors delivered fresh.

Dry Fruits Barfi

Loaded with figs, dates, nuts, and more, Dry Fruit Barfi is the healthy way to power your Diwali. These tasty, energy-packed squares are a hit with kids and adults alike. Share them on your train trip for a dose of health and festivity.

Milk Cake

Milk Cake, or Alwar Ka Mawa, is a caramelized milk fudge dotted with cardamom, rose water, and pistachios. Celebrate your Diwali journey with this rich, traditional sweet, a perfect companion for festive train vibes.

Doda Barfi

Doda Barfi from Punjab is all about gooey, nutty, ghee-laden goodness. Made in big batches during the colder months, Doda’s chewy texture and bold taste make it a true Diwali classic. Order yours with IRCTC eCatering and store some to savor all week long.

Rasgulla

Rasgulla is an all-time favorite among Diwali sweets, celebrated for generations. These soft, spongy, cheese-based balls are soaked in sugar syrup for an irresistible taste. Rasgullas are loved across India, but their true roots shine in the eastern regions.

Malpua

Malpua, the festive fried pancake, fills Diwali plates across North India, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. The batter, made with maida and fermented for extra fluffiness, is fried then dunked in syrup. You can enjoy them hot or cold, sometimes paired with chole or a glass of creamy lassi during Diwali.

Gajar ka Halwa

Gajar ka Halwa stands for pure indulgence each Diwali. This rich dessert blends shredded carrots, creamy milk, and ghee into something both delicious and nourishing. The sweetness is balanced, and the touch of ghee only adds to its charm.

Easy Ordering of Diwali Food on Train

With the IRCTC eCatering Food on Track app, place your festival food order anytime. Choose from trusted restaurants, use your preferred payment method, and have festive meals and sweets delivered to your train seat seamlessly.

How to Order Food on Train via IRCTC eCatering

Visit Website or Download App

Go to the IRCTC eCatering website (www.ecatering.irctc.co.in) or download the “Food on Track” app from the Play Store or App Store.

Enter PNR Number

Find your 10-digit PNR number on your train ticket and enter it on the site or app. This ensures your journey details and eligible delivery stations are auto-filled.

Choose Delivery Station

View a list of stations where meals can be delivered to your train. Select your preferred station for food delivery during the journey.

Browse Restaurants & Menu

Check the list of restaurants and food providers available at the chosen station. Browse their menus, check prices, and select your preferred meals or snacks.

Add to Cart & Confirm Details

Add the dishes you want to your cart. Confirm your train, coach, and seat/berth details for accurate delivery.

Select Payment Method

Choose from multiple payment options: UPI, credit/debit cards, net banking, or Cash on Delivery (if available at your chosen station).

Review, Submit & Relax

Review your order and submit it. You’ll receive confirmation and delivery details on SMS and/or email.

Simply relax while your fresh, hot food will arrive at your train seat at the chosen station. You can also call the IRCTC eCatering helpline at 1323 for assistance or to place your order over the phone. Ordering train food with IRCTC eCatering is fast, easy, and brings delicious, hygienic meals directly to your seat during your rail journey.

Summary

Diwali 2025 is about joy, light, and connection. Even when you travel, your train seat can feel festive. Let IRCTC eCatering be your partner, bringing in Diwali sweets and special food right to you.

Celebrate without any compromise while you are travelling. Order, relax and enjoy. Wishing you a radiant Diwali and safe, tasty journeys!