What’s inside:
This article discusses the new Vande Bharat Express train between Varanasi and Khajuraho, its ticket prices, and the impact on passenger bookings.
A new Vande Bharat Express train has started running between Varanasi and Khajuraho. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged it off on November 9. This train is attracting attention for its speed, but many passengers are finding the ticket prices quite high.
The fare for the chair car is set at ₹1400, which is double the normal rate for AC third class tickets on this route, which is around ₹565-₹580. For those choosing the executive class, the fare is ₹2470. Because of these high prices, many travelers are opting for older, cheaper train options.
As a result, many seats on the Vande Bharat train are empty. For instance, on November 14, there are over 300 seats available across both chair car and executive classes. Similar situations are seen on the following days as well.
Travelers visiting Khajuraho’s famous temples are now choosing trains like the Sarso-Ahmedabad Express instead. Despite long waiting lists on other trains, they prefer to travel at lower costs, even if it takes longer.
The Vande Bharat train leaves Varanasi at 5:10 AM and reaches Khajuraho by 1:10 PM. The return journey from Khajuraho starts at 3:20 PM and arrives back in Varanasi by 11:15 PM. The high fares may continue to keep passengers away from this new service.
Summary:
- A new Vande Bharat Express runs between Varanasi and Khajuraho.
- High ticket prices are discouraging many passengers.
- Seats are largely empty across several travel dates.
- Travelers are opting for cheaper train alternatives.
- The train schedule includes departures at early and late hours.