Published on
February 15, 2026
Indian Railways is responding to the growing travel demand during Holi 2026 by rolling out over one thousand four hundred special trains. These trains will connect key cities and high-demand routes, ensuring smoother and more efficient travel for millions of passengers heading home for the festival. The move aims to alleviate overcrowding, reduce waitlists, and provide more travel options across the country, making it easier for families to reunite and celebrate the festival of colours without the usual travel chaos.
Managing the Festival Rush: Special Trains for Holi 2026
To tackle the massive increase in passenger numbers during the Holi season, Indian Railways is deploying nearly 1,500 special trains. These services aim to reduce overcrowding on regular trains and accommodate the millions of people traveling across the country. With regular trains often filling up fast, the additional services will help alleviate the pressure on the railway network, making travel more manageable for everyone.
The special trains will run throughout March, mainly connecting high-traffic routes in the north, east, and west of India. To cater to various travel preferences, the trains will offer a wide range of accommodations, from air-conditioned coaches to sleeper and general class options. Both reserved and unreserved services will be available, ensuring that every traveller has a suitable choice to match their needs and budget.
Comprehensive Coverage: Special Trains Across India
East Central Railway will operate the largest number of special trains, with 285 trains planned for eastern routes. Western Railway follows with 231 services, while Central Railway will manage 209 special trains. Other regions, including South Central Railway and Northern Railway, are also contributing significantly to meet the demand.
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Here’s a detailed breakdown of special trains by zone:
- East Central Railway: 285 trains
- Western Railway: 231 trains
- Central Railway: 209 trains
- South Central Railway: 160 trains
- Northern Railway: 108 trains
- North Western Railway: 71 trains
- North Central Railway: 66 trains
- North Eastern Railway and East Coast Railway: 62 special trains each
- South Western Railway: 47 trains
- West Central Railway: 43 trains
- Southern Railway: 39 trains
- South East Central Railway: 15 trains
- Konkan Railway: 9 trains
- Northeast Frontier Railway: 2 trains
Popular Routes: Key Connections for Holi 2026
Indian Railways has outlined several key routes for the Holi special trains, focusing on the corridors that experience the highest volume of passengers during the festival. These special trains will provide essential links between cities and smaller towns across the country. Some of the prominent routes include:
- Lucknow to New Delhi: Train No. 04203 will depart from Lucknow at 8:05 am on February 23 and March 2, arriving in New Delhi at 6:30 pm. The return train, No. 04204, will leave New Delhi at 8:20 pm, reaching Lucknow the next morning.
- Varanasi to Delhi: Train No. 04209 will run daily from February 24 to March 6, departing Varanasi at 10:30 pm, stopping in Lucknow at 3:30 am, and arriving in Delhi at 1:30 pm.
- Ayodhya to Anand Vihar: Trains No. 04213 and 04214 will operate on select dates, offering a crucial connection between Ayodhya and Delhi.
- Varanasi to Chandigarh: Special trains (Train Nos. 04227 and 04228) will run on selected dates in February and March, catering to passengers traveling along this busy route.
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Varanasi: Train No. 04604 will run via Lucknow, facilitating travel for pilgrims visiting the sacred shrine.
In addition to these, services between Anand Vihar and Lucknow will provide vital connectivity during the festive season.
Early Booking Essential: Don’t Miss Out on Holi Travel
As schools close and offices adjust schedules for the festival, the demand for train travel is surging. Indian Railways urges passengers to book their tickets as early as possible to secure a seat on the special trains. While more trains may be added based on passenger response, the confirmed services are expected to fill up quickly, so early booking is key.
The substantial increase in special trains is a direct response to the growing need for travel options during Holi. This year’s expansion ensures that more people will be able to celebrate the festival with their families, without the added stress of overcrowded trains or long waitlists.
For millions of people across India, Holi is a time of reunion and celebration, and these special trains are designed to make that journey home smoother and more enjoyable. With over 1,400 trains planned, Indian Railways is doing its part to make this Holi as stress-free as possible.
To meet the surge in travel demand for Holi 2026, Indian Railways is deploying over one thousand four hundred special trains, connecting key cities and high-traffic routes to ensure a smoother, more efficient journey for millions of passengers.
Holi 2026 promises to be a festive occasion like no other, with Indian Railways rolling out more than 1,400 special trains to ensure safe, comfortable travel for all. Whether you’re traveling to reconnect with family or simply celebrating the festival of colours, the additional trains will make your journey smoother. The railway network’s commitment to easing the travel burden during one of the busiest times of the year ensures that, for once, your travel will be as enjoyable as your destination.
