Indian Railways Launches Special Train Service For Kumbh Mela 2025: Bengaluru To Varanasi Route And Timings

Amid the bustling activities of the ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, the Indian Railways has taken significant steps to ensure the smooth travel of millions of devotees. In a notable move, the South Western Railway (SWR) has introduced a special express train that will journey from Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) in Bengaluru to Varanasi. This one-way service aims to cater to the heightened demand from pilgrims attending the Kumbh Mela 2025.

To manage the expected influx of pilgrims for Mahakumbh, the Indian Railways has planned the operation of 3,000 special trains. This includes 560 trains specifically designated for the Ring Rail route. The extensive arrangement underscores the effort to accommodate the millions anticipated to partake in the religious congregation. Additionally, the North Central Railway has streamlined the ticketing process, setting up arrangements at nine pivotal stations. These efforts are projected to result in the issuance of around 1 million tickets daily, with the option for passengers to book their travels up to 15 days in advance.

The special train, numbered 06579, is set to embark from Bengaluru on January 23 at 1 pm and is expected to reach Varanasi by 1:30 pm on January 25. This strategic scheduling is designed to facilitate the movement of pilgrims to one of the most revered spiritual gatherings in India. With a total of 20 coaches, the train offers ample space for travelers, including 17 Sleeper Class coaches, one General Second Class, and two General Luggage and Divyaang-friendly coaches, ensuring a comfortable journey for all.

As the train makes its way from Karnataka to Uttar Pradesh, it will make stops at several key stations across different states.

Key halts

• Karnataka: Tumakuru, Tiptur, Arasikere, Birur, Chikjajur, Davanagere, Ranebennur, SMM Haveri, SSS Hubballi, Dharwad, Alnavar, and Londa.
• Maharashtra: Belagavi, Ghatprabha, Raibag, Miraj, Sangli, Kirloskarvadi, Karad, Satara, and Pune.
• Madhya Pradesh: Bhusaval and Itarsi.
• Uttar Pradesh: Prayagraj Chheoki, Mirzapur, and Varanasi.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as one of the world's largest religious gatherings, is held every 12 years at one of four sacred locations in India. The event is of immense spiritual significance, drawing devotees from across the globe. In anticipation of the 2025 gathering, the Uttar Pradesh police have deployed over 10,000 personnel, including local and paramilitary forces, to ensure the security of the event. The next significant 'snan' (holy bath) dates include January 29 for Mauni Amavasya (Second Shahi Snan), February 3 for Basant Panchami (Third Shahi Snan), followed by February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and culminating on February 26 with Maha Shivaratri.

The introduction of the special train service from Bengaluru to Varanasi by the South Western Railway, along with the deployment of thousands of additional trains and enhanced ticketing facilities, illustrates the comprehensive measures undertaken by the Indian Railways to support the faithful in their pilgrimage to the Mahakumbh Mela 2025. This initiative not only facilitates easier access to the sacred event but also exemplifies the Railways' commitment to serving the needs of India's diverse populace during such significant religious occasions.