Indian Railways has approved a new weekly train service connecting Janakpur Dham in Nepal with Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh. The proposed cross-border connection will link two important destinations associated with the Ramayana tradition, making it easier for pilgrims and tourists to travel between the birthplace of Mata Sita and the birthplace of Lord Ram.
The train will cover approximately 604 kilometres, passing through several towns and cities in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh before reaching Ayodhya Cantt.
604-Km Route to Connect Two Religious Destinations
The new service will establish a direct railway connection between Janakpur Dham and Ayodhya Cantt. Its commercial stoppages will include:
- Jaynagar
- Madhubani
- Shisho
- Sitamarhi
- Rahaul
- Narkatiaganj
- Gorakhpur
- Basti
- Mankapur
- Ayodhya Dham
The train will also stop at its terminal stations in Janakpur Dham and Ayodhya Cantt.
Janakpur Dham is revered as the birthplace of Mata Sita, while Ayodhya is associated with the birthplace of Lord Ram. The railway connection is expected to make travel between these two religious centres more convenient for devotees from both countries.
Train to Operate Once a Week in Both Directions
According to the Ministry of Railways, the service will operate once a week. The train will originate from Janakpur Dham every Saturday, while the return service from Ayodhya Cantt will depart every Monday.
The Railway Board has approved the service, but detailed departure timings, ticket fares and the commencement date of regular commercial operations are yet to be announced.
The proposed connection follows discussions between Indian and Nepali officials on operational arrangements, including immigration, customs, passenger facilities and security procedures.
Boost for India-Nepal Religious Tourism
The railway service is expected to strengthen the Ramayana tourism circuit connecting important religious destinations across India and Nepal.
Apart from pilgrims, the connection could benefit people travelling for education, business and family-related purposes. Residents of border regions in Nepal and Bihar will also gain another passenger transport option.
Improved connectivity is expected to create opportunities for hotels, tourism operators, local traders and traditional artisans along the route.
A New Chapter in Cross-Border Railway Connectivity
India and Nepal share longstanding cultural, religious and social connections. The new train service adds another transport link between the neighbouring countries and is intended to strengthen passenger movement and regional cooperation.
The development also follows a trial run conducted earlier in November, when an Indian train travelled from Jaynagar towards Kurtha in Nepal as part of preparations for the service.
Summary
Indian Railways has approved a weekly train connecting Janakpur Dham in Nepal with Ayodhya Cantt in Uttar Pradesh. Covering approximately 604 kilometres, the service will pass through several towns in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. It will depart from Janakpur on Saturdays and Ayodhya on Mondays, supporting religious tourism and cross-border travel.