India’s railway network is expanding with the introduction of four new Vande Bharat Express trains, aimed at providing faster and more comfortable journeys between important cities and tourist destinations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to flag off the new services from Varanasi strengthening regional connectivity and creating additional travel opportunities.
Four New Routes to Improve Connectivity
The newly announced Vande Bharat Express services will operate on four major routes:
- Banaras–Khajuraho
- Lucknow–Saharanpur
- Firozpur–Delhi
- Ernakulam–Bengaluru
These routes connect important cultural, religious, commercial and educational destinations across several Indian states.
Banaras–Khajuraho Train to Boost Heritage Tourism
The Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express is particularly significant for travellers interested in religious and heritage tourism.
The route will connect Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot and Khajuraho, making it easier to explore some of India’s most important spiritual and historical destinations.
The service is expected to reduce travel time by approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes compared with the existing special trains.
Khajuraho, famous for its UNESCO-listed temples, could benefit from improved railway connectivity.
Faster Travel Between Major Cities
The Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat Express is expected to complete its journey in approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, saving nearly one hour.
The Firozpur–Delhi service will cover its route in around 6 hours and 40 minutes, offering faster connectivity between Punjab and the national capital.
Meanwhile, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express will complete its journey in approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes, reducing travel time by more than two hours.
Tourism and Regional Economies Expected to Benefit
Improved railway connectivity could encourage more domestic tourism, particularly among travellers who prefer comfortable train journeys over long road trips.
The new services are also expected to support local businesses, hotels, tourism operators and commercial activity in the connected regions.
With additional Vande Bharat routes, Indian Railways continues its efforts to modernise passenger travel and make important destinations more accessible.
