Indian Railways will launch a weekly train connecting Nepal’s Janakpur Dham with Uttar Pradesh’s AyodhyaCheck the route, stoppages, schedule and how the service will boost Ramayana tourism.
Published: November 14, 2026, 6:32 PM IST
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The weekly train service is also a major step towards strengthening cross-border connectivity and cultural ties between the two countries | image: AI
Nepal To Ayodhya Train: In a major step, Indian Railways is going to operate a new train service between Nepal’s Janakpur Dham and Uttar Pradesh’s AyodhyaThe move is being taken in order to connect two holy places which are rooted in the RamayanaThe weekly train service is also a major step towards strengthening cross-border connectivity and cultural ties between the two countriesNotably, Janakpur Dham is the birthplace of Mata Sita and Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram, as per Hindu mythology.
New train to cover 604 km, 10 commercial stoppages across Bihar and UP
The new weekly train is going to cover approx604 kms between Janakpur Dham to Ayodhya CanttThe train will also pass through several major towns and cities in Bihar and Uttar PradeshIt will stop major stations including Jaynagar, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Basti, Mankapur and Ayodhya Dham.
It is to be noted that the train service will be operated once a weekThe train will originate from Janakpur Dham on Saturdays and from Ayodhya Cantton Mondays.
New train service to boost religious tourism, cross-border travel
According to the Ministry of Railways, the new train service is going to boost cross-border travel for pilgrims, tourists and passengersIt will also encourage tourism circuits associated with the RamayanaNot only that, but the train will also be very beneficial for people travelling for education and business.
Highlighting the economic benefits, the Railway Ministry said that the new weekly train is expected to create new opportunities for businesses linked to tourismHospitality establishments, traders, and artisans will also benefit from the initiative.
Historical and cultural ties between India-Nepal
It is worth noting that India and Nepal share centuries-old cultural and social bondsReligious traditions of both the countries are very similar and form an integral part of bilateral partnership.
“For now, the Indian Railways will operate the trainAll the availing facilities and the ticket fare will also be decided by them; later, when we have the resources to operate it on our own, then we will decide about the facilities to be given and the required changes,” Paribesh Parajuli, Managing Director of Nepal Railways, Janakpur, told new agency ANI.
“For now we are planning for one round trip in a weekIt would be further expanded depending on the flow of passengers, which might increase the frequency as well,” the official added.
The proposed route between the two cities is roughly 464 km longThe weekly train will connect Janakpurdham, which is the revered birthplace of Sita, with Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram.
(with ANI inputs)
