Indian Railways To Run 12,000 Special Trains For Diwali-Chhath Travel Rush: Routes And Booking Details

As Diwali and Chhath Puja near, railway stations across India are set to witness a sharp rise in passengers. Families pack sweets, gifts and bags filled with memories. For many, this is more than travel. It is a return to rituals, reunions and home-cooked meals. To meet the surge in demand, Indian Railways has announced the rollout of 12,000 special trains across the country. These trains are aimed at easing congestion, adding berths and ensuring that passengers reach home safely and on time. From Delhi to Gaya or Muzaffarpur to Hyderabad, the festive rail network is being expanded to accommodate more travellers.

Indian Railway

Also Read: How To Book The Best Train Seats Without Any Agents

Why These 12,000 Special Trains Matter

The festive period records one of the highest passenger volumes in the year. Regular trains often get booked weeks ahead, leaving many without options. These 12,000 special trains are planned to:

• Reduce overcrowding at major junctions
• Add berths for last-minute travellers
• Ensure smoother movement during peak days
• Provide safer and more organised travel

According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the move is part of a wider plan to make festive travel more accessible and convenient.

New Routes And Highlights

Along with the special trains, Indian Railways is adding new routes and services to connect key cities during the rush.

Amrit Bharat Trains

These trains will connect:

• Delhi with Gaya
• Saharsa with Amritsar
• Chhapra with Delhi
• Muzaffarpur with Hyderabad

Vande Bharat Expansion

A new Vande Bharat will operate on the Purnia-Patna route, offering faster travel for Bihar-bound passengers.

These additions are expected to improve connectivity in North and East India, especially for those heading home for Diwali and Chhath.

Vande Bharat Train

Round Trip Package: New Way To Save On Festive Travel

To make journeys more affordable, Indian Railways last week introduced a scheme called the Round-Trip Package.

How It Works

• Passengers booking a full trip together get a 20% discount on the return fare
• All passengers must be under a single reservation
• The return journey must match the onward trip to prevent misuse

The offer aims to promote early planning, ease last-minute rush and spread traffic over more days. It will be valid for onward journeys between 13-26 October, 2025 and return trips between 17 November-1 December, 2025.

Also Read: New Amritsar-Katra Vande Bharat Details: Significance, Timings, Stoppages, Travel Time, Fare

Diwali-Chhath Train Schedule: Key Details

How To Book Your Festive Tickets

Booking early is crucial during the festive period. Steps include:

• Visit IRCTC website or mobile app
• Search under "Festival Specials" tab
• Select route and travel dates
• Enter passenger details and choose class
• Opt for Round-Trip Package if eligible
• Make payment and confirm booking

Tip: Use IRCTC notifications for updates on new trains and seat availability.

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Travel Tips For Diwali-Chhath Season

• Carry valid ID with a digital copy
• Pack light but keep snacks, water and chargers
• Arrive early to avoid rush
• Use DigiYatra or station apps for smoother boarding
• If travelling with elders or children, book lower berths

Also Read: Travelling This Festive Season? Here's How Indian Railways' New Scheme Can Save You Money

The Bottom Line

With 12,000 special trains, new routes and schemes like the Round-Trip Package, Indian Railways is preparing to handle the festive rush. Whether for Diwali or Chhath, travel is set to become more budget-friendly and smoother. Pack your bags, book early and head home without worry.