India-Nepal weekly train service approved between Janakpur Dham and Ayodhya

The route, covering about 604 km, will operate once a week with alternating origins from Janakpur Dham and Ayodhya Cantt.

Edited by Sandeep Gupta, Editor · SafarSamachar Desk14 Nov 2026, 4:51 pm IST

Illustration

Illustration: SafarSamachar Pix Desk, created with AI assistance. Not a photograph of the event.

Key facts at a glance

1The route covers approximately 604 kilometres
2Commercial stops include Jaynagar, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur
3The service aims to improve access to religious and cultural sites
4The train is expected to boost tourism and trade

Indian Railways has approved a weekly train service connecting Janakpur Dham in Nepal with Ayodhya in India. The route spans approximately 604 kilometres and will operate once a week, with its originating days being Saturday from Janakpur Dham and Monday from Ayodhya Cantt.

The train will make commercial stops at Jaynagar, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, and Mankapur. The service is expected to improve access to religious and cultural sites, boost tourism and trade, and benefit local economies along the route. It also aims to strengthen India-Nepal friendship.

Ayodhya is the birthplace of Prabhu Shri Ram, while Janakpur Dham is revered as the birthplace of Mata Sita. The train service is part of efforts to enhance connectivity between the two countries and facilitate pilgrimage and cultural exchanges.

What this means for Indian travellers

If you're planning a pilgrimage or cultural trip to Ayodhya or Janakpur Dham, keep an eye out for the new weekly train service, which will begin once operational details are finalised.

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Sources

This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above, following our accuracy rules; it has not yet been individually reviewed by an editor. Read our editorial policy.Rules and schedules change - confirm with the airline or embassy before you travel. Spotted an error? Tell us.

Source Verification

For official notices, schedules, or policy compliance frameworks, verify details directly via Indian Railways (IRCTC).