JAIN MEAL IN TRAIN

JAIN MEAL IN TRAIN

Jain Food in Train: A Comprehensive Guide to Ordering Delicious Jain Meals on Indian Railways

Traveling by train in India is a unique and exciting experience, with diverse landscapes and long journeys across the country. For Jain passengers, however, the availability of suitable food options during these journeys can be a challenge. Jain cuisine adheres to strict dietary rules, avoiding certain root vegetables and ensuring that food is pure, vegetarian, and prepared in a specific manner.

Thanks to IRCTC e-Catering and third-party services, getting Jain food in trains has become easier and more convenient than ever. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ordering Jain food in trains, how to ensure you get a hygienic and delicious meal, and tips for making the most of IRCTC’s food services.

Why Jain Food in Trains is Essential

Jain food follows the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and purity, which means:

  • No root vegetables like onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots, or beets.
  • No non-vegetarian items (strictly vegetarian meals).
  • No food prepared during specific times like sunset or containing fermented products.

These dietary rules ensure that Jain meals are not only healthy but spiritually aligned with the principles of non-violence and compassion. However, finding Jain food while traveling can be a challenge, especially on long train journeys where food options may be limited.

To cater to the growing demand for Jain food in trains, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has made it easy for passengers to order meals that align with their dietary preferences.

How to Order Jain Food in Trains via IRCTC E-Catering

Ordering Jain food in trains is a simple and hassle-free process with IRCTC e-Catering services. Whether you're traveling alone or with family, you can easily place your order using the IRCTC e-Catering website or the Food on Track app. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to order Jain food in trains:

1. Visit the IRCTC E-Catering Website or Download the Food on Track App

To start, visit the official IRCTC e-Catering website (www.ecatering.irctc.co.in) or download the Food on Track app, available on both Android and iOS devices. The app and website are user-friendly, making it easy to search for Jain food options.

2. Enter Your PNR Number

To place an order, you will need to provide your PNR (Passenger Name Record) number, which can be found on your train ticket. After entering your PNR, the system will display your train details and a list of upcoming stations where food delivery is available.

3. Search for Jain Food Options

IRCTC has partnered with several restaurants and food outlets across the country that offer Jain food. After entering your PNR, you can filter food options by selecting Jain meals or searching for vendors that specialize in pure vegetarian food.

4. Choose Your Meal and Select the Delivery Station

Once you’ve found the perfect Jain meal, you can choose the station where you’d like your food to be delivered. IRCTC offers delivery at multiple stations along your journey, ensuring that you receive a fresh and hot meal directly at your seat.

5. Make Payment

IRCTC e-Catering provides various payment options, including:

  • Debit/Credit cards
  • Net banking
  • UPI (Unified Payments Interface)
  • Mobile wallets like Paytm, Google Pay, and PhonePe

You can also choose the Cash on Delivery (COD) option if you prefer to pay when the food is delivered to your seat.

6. Enjoy Fresh Jain Food Delivered to Your Seat

Once your order is placed, you’ll receive real-time updates about your food’s status. When the train reaches the selected station, your Jain meal will be delivered directly to your seat. This seamless process ensures that you enjoy a delicious, hygienic, and fresh meal without any hassle.

Popular Jain Food Options Available in Trains

Jain cuisine is simple yet flavorful, with a focus on purity and balance. Many restaurants catering to train passengers offer Jain thalis and specific dishes that meet the dietary needs of Jain travelers. Here are some popular Jain food options you can find:

1. Jain Thali

A complete meal, the Jain thali typically includes:

  • Chapati/Puri
  • Dal (without garlic and onions)
  • Sabzi (vegetable curry prepared without root vegetables)
  • Rice
  • Papad
  • Salad and Pickle
  • Sweets like halwa or gulab jamun

The thali is an excellent option for passengers looking for a wholesome and nutritious meal during their journey.

2. Jain Biryani

A flavorful rice dish, Jain biryani is prepared without garlic, onions, or root vegetables, making it suitable for Jain passengers. The dish is typically made with a mix of fresh vegetables like peas, beans, and cauliflower, cooked with fragrant spices and basmati rice.

3. Jain Pav Bhaji

For those craving something more indulgent, Jain pav bhaji is a popular street food dish adapted for Jain dietary preferences. The bhaji (vegetable curry) is made with tomatoes, capsicum, peas, and other non-root vegetables, served with soft pav (bread rolls).

4. Jain Snacks

If you’re looking for lighter options or a quick snack during your journey, many vendors offer Jain samosas, kachoris, and poha. These snacks are prepared without onions and garlic, ensuring they align with Jain dietary principles.

5. Jain South Indian Dishes

South Indian food is also a great option for Jain passengers. You can order dishes like Jain idli, Jain dosa, and upma, which are prepared without onions and garlic. These dishes are light, healthy, and perfect for a quick meal on the go.

Benefits of Ordering Jain Food in Trains via IRCTC

Choosing IRCTC e-Catering for Jain food offers several advantages:

  1. Convenience: The ability to order food online and have it delivered directly to your seat eliminates the need to carry packed meals or rely on pantry car food, which may not meet Jain dietary preferences.

  2. Variety: IRCTC e-Catering partners with numerous restaurants across India, offering a wide variety of Jain dishes, from thalis to snacks and regional delicacies.

  3. Hygiene and Freshness: The food is prepared by FSSAI-approved restaurants that follow strict hygiene standards. Your meal is freshly prepared and delivered to you at your chosen station.

  4. Customizable Orders: You can choose meals that align with your dietary needs, whether you're strictly Jain, vegetarian, or looking for a specific type of cuisine.

  5. Cashless Transactions: IRCTC offers multiple payment options, including secure online transactions through cards, UPI, and mobile wallets.

  6. Real-Time Updates: After placing an order, you receive real-time updates about your food’s status, ensuring a hassle-free delivery experience.

Tips for Ordering Jain Food in Trains

Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth experience when ordering Jain food during your train journey:

  • Order in Advance: It’s always a good idea to place your order at least 1-2 hours before your selected delivery station to avoid delays.
  • Check Restaurant Reviews: Many restaurants on the IRCTC platform have reviews and ratings. Choose highly-rated vendors for the best quality and taste.
  • Stay Updated: Keep track of your food delivery status through the app to ensure you’re ready when the meal arrives at your seat.
  • Avoid Root Vegetables: Make sure to check the meal description carefully to ensure the dish adheres to Jain dietary principles.

Top Routes Offering Jain Food via IRCTC E-Catering

While Jain food is available on most major train routes, certain stations and regions are particularly popular for their Jain meal options. Some top routes where passengers frequently order Jain food include:

  • Mumbai to Ahmedabad: This route sees a high demand for Jain thalis and snacks like pav bhaji and poha.
  • Delhi to Jaipur: Many passengers traveling between these cities order Jain biryani, thalis, and light snacks.
  • Chennai to Bangalore: South Indian Jain dishes like idli and dosa are commonly ordered by passengers on this route.
  • Surat to Vadodara: This region is well-known for its Jain-friendly meal options, including snacks and full meals.

Conclusion

With IRCTC e-Catering, ordering Jain food in trains has never been easier. Whether you're traveling long distances or on a short journey, you can now enjoy fresh, hygienic, and delicious Jain meals delivered right to your seat. From Jain thalis to snacks and regional specialties, there’s no shortage of options for Jain passengers looking to maintain their dietary preferences while traveling.

Make your train journey more comfortable and satisfying by choosing IRCTC e-catering services for your next trip. Enjoy the convenience, variety, and peace of mind that comes with knowing your meal aligns with Jain dietary principles.

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