Indian Railways has launched a scenic meter-gauge tourist train service designed to offer wildlife enthusiasts a comfortable journey through the heart of Dudhwa National Park. Operated by the North Eastern Railway’s Lucknow Division, this special AC chair car service connects Mailani and Bichhia, allowing passengers to experience the region’s dense forests and natural beauty in a unique way.
- Service Frequency: Operates twice a week on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Train Numbers: 52260 (Mailani to Bichhia) and 52259 (Bichhia to Mailani).
- Train Capacity: Features a single AC chair car with 60 seats.
- Ticket Price: The round-trip fare is fixed at ₹270 per person.
- Booking: Tickets can be purchased via IRCTC or at PRS counters.
Train Schedule and Route Details
For travelers planning their weekend getaway, train number 52260 departs Mailani Junction at 06:05 AM and reaches Bichhia Station at 10:30 AM. Along the route, the train makes scheduled stops at Bhirakheri, Palia Kalan, Dudhwa, Belrayan, Tikunia, Khairatia Bandh Road (halt), and Manjhara Purab.
The return leg, train number 52259, departs Bichhia Station at 11:45 AM, retracing the route to arrive back at Mailani Junction by 04:10 PM. This timing is curated to allow tourists to maximize their time amidst the wilderness.
Boosting Regional Tourism
Mahesh Gupta, the Public Relations Officer for the North Eastern Railway’s Lucknow Division, highlighted that this initiative is a significant step toward promoting ecotourism. By providing a safe and reliable rail link, the railways aim to make the Dudhwa region more accessible to nature lovers, particularly during the lush monsoon season when the landscape is at its most vibrant.
Whether you are a wildlife photographer or a family looking for a unique weekend outing, this AC chair car service promises a comfortable ride through one of India’s most important protected areas. With only 60 seats available per trip, passengers are encouraged to book their tickets early through official IRCTC channels to secure their spot on this scenic jungle route.