Preparations are almost complete to launch a direct train service from Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Ayodhya to Janakpur (Nepal), the maternal home of Lord Rama's consort, Sita. The Northern Railway and North Eastern Railway administrations have prepared an initial schedule for this. According to information, this train will run via Gorakhpur, through the Darbhanga route.
Ayodhya to Janakpur Train Service: Ayodhya and Janakpur are two sacred sites linked to the eternal saga of Lord Rama and Sita. Now, a new train service is likely to connect these two religious and cultural sites between India and Nepal. Northern Railway (NR) and North Eastern Railway (NER) have jointly prepared the train's schedule and sent it to the Railway Board. According to railway sources, this train service may commence between September and October 2025.
Why is the Ayodhya-Janakpur Train Service Special?
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Ayodhya and Janakpur Dham hold deep religious and cultural significance.
- Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama.
- Janakpur (Nepal) is the maternal home and wedding place of Sita.
This train service, directly connecting both sites, will not only promote religious tourism but also strengthen Indo-Nepal relations.
Train Route and Stations
- This train will have 22 coaches, catering to all categories of passengers.
- Coach Categories: First AC, Second AC, Third AC, Sleeper, and General.
- Travel Route: Ayodhya → Gorakhpur → Narkatiaganj (Bihar) → Raxaul → Sitamarhi → Darbhanga → Jaynagar → Janakpur Road → Janakpur Dham.
This route will not only connect major cities in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar but also provide direct access to religious sites in Nepal.
Why Was the Plan Delayed?
In February 2024, the Railway Board gave the green light to this project and instructed the preparation of a schedule. According to the initial plan, the train service was to start from Ayodhya to Janakpur Dham via Gorakhpur. However, due to some unavoidable reasons and administrative delays, this plan was stalled midway. Now, work has resumed rapidly on it, and the Central Government is holding final talks with the Government of Nepal.
Religious, cultural, and historical relations between India and Nepal are centuries old. Work is already underway on the Ramayana Circuit project to connect Ayodhya and Janakpur. The new train service will further accelerate this project. It will also strengthen tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
