Indian Railways is preparing for the annual Kanwar Yatra 2026 by introducing dedicated special trains and extending existing services to manage the expected surge in pilgrims traveling to Haridwar and Rishikesh. The Yatra is scheduled to take place from July 30 to August 11, 2026, with railway operations for the event continuing until August 14 to ensure the safe return of devotees.
Key highlights of the railway arrangements include:
• Extension of the Delhi-Saharanpur MEMU and Delhi-Shamli DEMU services directly to Haridwar.
• Introduction of two dedicated ‘Mela’ special trains to bridge connectivity with Delhi.
• Enhanced frequency of Namo Bharat trains by the NCRTC to assist pilgrims.
• Strict safety and logistical oversight by state authorities, including traffic diversions and temporary shop closures along the route.
Expanded Train Services and Schedules
Northern Railway is taking significant steps to improve connectivity for pilgrims. The Delhi-Saharanpur MEMU will be extended to Haridwar from July 30 to August 14. It is scheduled to depart Delhi at 4:15 PM, reaching Saharanpur at 8:50 PM and Haridwar at 10:50 PM. For the return journey, the train will depart Haridwar at 2:00 AM, arriving back in Delhi by 8:45 AM. Similarly, the Delhi-Shamli DEMU will be extended to Haridwar, serving key stations including Shamli, Thana Bhawan, Rampur Maniharan, and Tapri.
Furthermore, two dedicated ‘Mela’ special trains have been introduced: the Haridwar-Delhi Shahdara Fair Special (running July 30 to August 13) and the Yoganagari Rishikesh-Delhi Shahdara Fair Special (running July 30 to August 14).
Safety and Travel Advisories
Beyond rail, state governments have coordinated a massive logistical plan. The Uttar Pradesh government has mandated the closure of meat and liquor shops along the Yatra routes and has directed officials to ensure hygiene and water availability. Travelers should note that traffic diversions for heavy vehicles will be in effect in Ghaziabad from July 29 to August 12, with specific restrictions on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway from August 7 to August 12.
Haryana Roadways is also supporting the efforts by running daily buses from Ballabhgarh Bus Stand to Haridwar. Because these arrangements are subject to change based on real-time crowd movement, pilgrims are strongly advised to check the latest train schedules and traffic advisories before heading to the station or bus terminal.