Maha Kumbh 2025, the world’s largest spiritual gathering, is expected to witness an unprecedented influx of devotees from across the country and beyond. To ensure a seamless and comfortable travel experience for pilgrims, Northern Railway has introduced special Vande Bharat Express trains for Maha Kumbh 2025. These trains will operate between New Delhi and Varanasi via Prayagraj, catering specifically to the growing demand during this grand religious event.
Special Vande Bharat Train Schedule for Maha Kumbh 2025
Indian Railways will run two Vande Bharat Special Train No. 02252/02251 for three days to facilitate smooth transportation for pilgrims. Below is the detailed timetable for these special trains:
Train No. 02252 (New Delhi to Varanasi)
- Departure from New Delhi: 5:30 AM
- Halt at Prayagraj: 12:00 PM
- Arrival at Varanasi: 2:20 PM
Train No. 02251 (Varanasi to New Delhi)
- Departure from Varanasi: 3:15 PM
- Halt at Prayagraj: 5:20 PM
- Arrival at New Delhi: 11:50 PM
Why Indian Railways Introduced Special Trains for Maha Kumbh 2025?
The Uttar Pradesh government has projected that over 500 million devotees will attend Maha Kumbh 2025, surpassing the populations of Russia, Brazil, and the United States. Given this record-breaking turnout of devotees at Maha Kumbh, the demand for railway services has surged significantly.
Indian Railways has played a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of pilgrims, with over 400,000 travelers arriving via 140 trains. The special Vande Bharat Express for Maha Kumbh 2025 will provide high-speed, comfortable, and efficient travel options for devotees attending the holy event.
Key Facilities in Vande Bharat Special Trains for Maha Kumbh Devotees
To ensure an enhanced travel experience, Indian Railways has provided several facilities in the special Vande Bharat trains for Maha Kumbh 2025:
- Faster Travel: The Vande Bharat Express is one of India’s fastest trains, ensuring quick and efficient travel between key religious destinations.
- Comfortable Seating: Modern seating arrangements with ample legroom and reclining features.
- Onboard Catering: Hygienic and nutritious meal services will be available for passengers.
- Bio Toilets & Cleanliness: Equipped with advanced bio-toilets, ensuring a hygienic travel experience.
- Security & Surveillance: CCTV cameras and security personnel will be deployed for the safety of devotees.
- Senior Citizen & Women-Friendly Features: Special assistance for senior citizens and women passengers, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Record-Breaking Devotee Attendance at Maha Kumbh 2025
The turnout for key bathing days at Maha Kumbh 2025 has been staggering:
- Paush Purnima: 17 million devotees
- Makar Sankranti: 35 million devotees
- Mauni Amavasya: 76.4 million devotees
- Basant Panchami: 25.7 million devotees
- Magh Purnima: 14 million devotees
- February 9 (until 4 PM): 7.9 million devotees
This massive influx highlights the critical role of Indian Railways in managing the transportation of millions of pilgrims efficiently.
How to Book Tickets for Maha Kumbh Special Vande Bharat Train?
Devotees planning to attend Maha Kumbh 2025 can book tickets for these special Vande Bharat trains through the following methods:
- IRCTC Website & Mobile App: Online booking is available via IRCTC’s official portal.
- Railway Reservation Counters: Tickets can be booked at major railway station reservation counters.
- Authorized Travel Agents: Passengers can book through IRCTC-authorized agents.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance due to high demand during this period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the route of the Vande Bharat Special Train for Maha Kumbh 2025? A: The train operates between New Delhi and Varanasi, with a key stop at Prayagraj, the main venue for Maha Kumbh 2025.
Q2: How many days will the special Vande Bharat train run for Maha Kumbh? A: The train will operate on February 15, 16, and 17, 2025, to accommodate devotees attending the event.
Q3: What are the departure and arrival timings of the train? A:
- From New Delhi to Varanasi: Departs at 5:30 AM, arrives at 2:20 PM.
- From Varanasi to New Delhi: Departs at 3:15 PM, arrives at 11:50 PM.
Q4: Can I book tickets for the special Vande Bharat train online? A: Yes, tickets can be booked through the IRCTC website, mobile app, railway reservation counters, and authorized travel agents.
Q5: What facilities are available on the Vande Bharat Express for Maha Kumbh pilgrims? A: The train offers comfortable seating, hygienic catering, clean bio-toilets, CCTV surveillance, and special assistance for senior citizens and women.
Conclusion
With millions of devotees set to participate in Maha Kumbh 2025, Indian Railways has stepped up its efforts by launching special Vande Bharat trains for Maha Kumbh pilgrims. These high-speed trains ensure faster, safer, and more comfortable travel between New Delhi, Prayagraj, and Varanasi. Devotees are advised to book tickets in advance to secure their seats for this spiritual journey.
The special Vande Bharat Express trains for Maha Kumbh 2025 are a testament to Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing pilgrimage travel and accommodating the needs of millions attending this once-in-a-lifetime religious event.
