A new cross-border passenger train service linking Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh and Janakpur Dham in Nepal is scheduled to be inaugurated virtually on November 23. The project, which aims to strengthen bilateral ties through improved connectivity, will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Nepal, Balendra Shah.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the weekly service will cover a distance of approximately 604 kilometres. The train is designed to connect two major religious sites: Ayodhya, considered the birthplace of Lord Ram, and Janakpur Dham, revered as the birthplace of Mata Sita. Officials stated that this initiative is expected to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims, students, traders, and tourists, while also supporting local economic activities such as tourism and regional trade.
The train service will operate once a week. It is scheduled to depart from Janakpur Dham every Saturday and from Ayodhya Cantt every Monday. The route traverses several towns across Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, providing regional transit accessibility along the corridor.
The commercial stops for the train, as confirmed by the Ministry of Railways, include Jaynagar, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur, and Ayodhya Dham.
Key facts
- The train covers a distance of approximately 604 kilometres.
- The service is scheduled for virtual inauguration on November 23, 2026.
- Stoppages include Jaynagar, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur, and Ayodhya Dham.
- The service operates weekly, departing Janakpur Dham on Saturdays and Ayodhya Cantt on Mondays.
Why it matters
The new rail link is intended to enhance bilateral cooperation by leveraging connectivity to bring the communities of India and Nepal closer. By establishing a direct route between these two historic sites, authorities expect to bolster tourism and economic growth for local businesses, hotels, and artisans situated along the train's path.
Background
India and Nepal have maintained centuries-old cultural and social bonds. In June 2026, both nations held discussions regarding cross-border railway infrastructure and the potential for passenger train services on the Janakpur-Ayodhya section.
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