Janakpur-Ayodhya Superfast Train Ready: 464-Km Route to Connect India and Nepal via Bihar
November 12, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): A direct rail service connecting Janakpur in Nepal with Ayodhya in India is expected to begin soon, offering greater convenience to pilgrims travelling between the two important religious destinations. The proposed Janakpur-Ayodhya Superfast Train is likely to be flagged off virtually by the Prime Ministers of India and Nepal towards the end of November.
According to an ANI report, officials from Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and railway department have confirmed that preparations for the service are underway. The proposed route will cover approximately 464 kilometres and connect important locations in both countries through Bihar.
The train is expected to operate once a week initially, with the possibility of increasing its frequency depending on passenger demand.
464-Km Route Between Janakpur and Ayodhya
The proposed train will depart from Janakpur Dham in Nepal for Ayodhya and return the following day.
On the Nepal side, Janakpur Dham and Jaynagar stations will be part of the service. However, the exact route and stations on the Indian side are yet to be finalised.
The proposed 464-km rail connection is expected to strengthen the Ramayana Circuit by linking destinations associated with Lord Ram and Goddess Sita.
Janakpur Dham is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Goddess Sita, while Ayodhya is considered the birthplace of Lord Ram. The direct train service is expected to make travel easier for Nepali pilgrims visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and Indian devotees travelling to Janakpur.
Train to Operate Once a Week Initially
Indian Railways will initially operate the Janakpur-Ayodhya train. The facilities provided to passengers and ticket fares will also be decided by Indian Railways.
Paribesh Parajuli, head of Nepal Railway in Janakpur, told ANI that the initial plan is to operate one round trip every week.
The frequency may be increased later depending on the number of passengers travelling on the route.
Parajuli said the railway connection reflects the historical relationship between India and Nepal, associated with the marriage of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. He also said the service could strengthen bilateral ties and promote tourism, economic activity and social interaction between the two countries.
Indian Railways to Handle Operations Initially
India and Nepal began discussions on starting the service during September and October 2026.
Officials from customs, immigration and security agencies of both countries held a meeting at the railway rest house in Jaynagar. Discussions covered the rail link, signalling arrangements, immigration, customs checks, passenger facilities and security.
Both sides agreed that Nepali agencies would be responsible for the safety of passengers and trains in Nepal, while Indian agencies would handle security within Indian territory.
Officials also jointly inspected the Jaynagar-Jan akpur Dham-Kurtha railway section.
During the discussions, it was decided that Indian Railways would operate the service until Nepal takes over the responsibility for running it.
17-Coach Train Completes Trial Run
In early November, a 17-coach Indian train, identified as WDP-4D 40370, completed a trial run from Jaynagar to Kurtha.
The trial was part of the preparations for the proposed international rail service. The final route, Indian-side station details and operational arrangements are expected to be decided before the service begins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Janakpur-Ayodhya Superfast Train?
It is a proposed direct rail service connecting Janakpur Dham in Nepal with Ayodhya in India to facilitate travel between the two religious destinations.
2. What is the proposed distance of the Janakpur-Ayodhya train route?
The proposed route is approximately 464 kilometres long.
3. When is the Janakpur-Ayodhya train expected to start?
The train may be flagged off virtually by the Prime Ministers of India and Nepal towards the end of November 2026.
4. How frequently will the train operate initially?
The initial plan is to operate one round trip every week. The frequency may increase depending on passenger demand.
5. Which stations in Nepal will be connected by the service?
Janakpur Dham and Jaynagar are among the stations identified on the Nepal side. The exact Indian-side route is yet to be finalised.
6. Who will operate the Janakpur-Ayodhya train?
Indian Railways will operate the train initially until Nepal takes over the responsibility.
7. How will the train benefit pilgrims?
The service is expected to make travel easier between Janakpur Dham, associated with Goddess Sita, and Ayodhya, associated with Lord Ram.
8. Has the train completed a trial run?
Yes. A 17-coach Indian train, WDP-4D 40370, completed a trial run from Jaynagar to Kurtha in early November 2026.