Ayodhya-Janakpur Train: India and Nepal Fast-Track New Route
India and Nepal accelerate preparations for the Janakpur-Ayodhya train service to boost religious tourism on the Ramayana Circuit.
The dream of a direct rail link between the birthplace of Lord Ram in Ayodhya and the birthplace of Mata Sita in Janakpur is rapidly becoming a reality. India and Nepal have significantly ramped up preparations for the highly anticipated Janakpur-Ayodhya cross-border train service, a move designed to revolutionize religious tourism along the sacred Ramayana Circuit.
Successful Technical Trials Completed
A major milestone was reached on Thursday, November 5, 2026, when a massive technical trial run was successfully conducted. An Indian train, consisting of 17 coaches and powered by a WDP-4D 40370 locomotive, traveled from Jayanagar in India to Kurtha station in Janakpur, Nepal. This trial was crucial to test the connectivity and track readiness for the proposed 464-kilometer journey.
Following the trial, a joint team of railway, security, and customs officials from both nations conducted thorough on-site inspections. Their focus remained on evaluating track capacity, testing safety systems, and determining the specific operational requirements needed to run international services smoothly.
Strengthening the Ramayana Circuit
This project serves as a spiritual bridge, aiming to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims following the Ramayana Circuit. The diplomatic momentum behind the project has been high, with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri recently briefing Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah on the project's progress during a formal meeting in Kathmandu.
While the East Central Railway in Hajipur is overseeing the technical and safety protocols on the Indian side, the Nepal Railway Company, led by Managing Director Paribesh Parajuli, is spearheading the coordination within Nepal.
Security and Operational Framework
Although formal agreements regarding specific train schedules and fare structures are still being finalized, both countries have reached an understanding regarding security arrangements. Under the proposed framework:
- Nepali security agencies will oversee operations and safety within Nepal.
- Indian agencies will manage security on the Indian side of the border.
Preliminary discussions suggest that the service will likely operate on a weekly basis to cater to the expected influx of devotees and tourists.
Target Launch: November 22, 2026
Authorities are reportedly targeting the official inauguration to coincide with Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s scheduled visit to India on November 22, 2026. The historic service is expected to be jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Shah and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.