Vande Bharat Train: Meerut–Varanasi Vande Bharat Express to Begin from August 28 via Ayodhya Dham

In a major boost to regional connectivity, Varanasi is set to welcome a new Vande Bharat Express, this time originating from Meerut. The new high-speed train will begin service from August 28, marking the first-ever direct rail link between Meerut and Varanasi.

Currently, the Meerut–Lucknow Vande Bharat Express will be extended to Varanasi Cantt, passing through key cities like Ayodhya Dham, and will offer seamless, same-day travel between the two ends.

Five Key Things to Know About the New Vande Bharat Express

1. First-Ever Direct Train Between Meerut and Varanasi

This Vande Bharat Express becomes the first direct train connecting Meerut and Varanasi, eliminating the need for route changes or long road journeys via Prayagraj. Previously, travelers had to rely on multiple train changes or buses, increasing both time and hassle.

2. Full Train Schedule and Journey Time

Covering a total distance of 782.22 km, the train completes the journey in less than 12 hours. It’s an ideal same-day travel option for commuters, especially between major cities like Lucknow, Ayodhya, and Varanasi.

Train 22490 (Meerut to Varanasi):

Meerut City – 6:35 AM

Moradabad – 8:40 AM

Bareilly – 10:11 AM

Lucknow – 1:55 PM

Ayodhya Dham – 3:55 PM

Varanasi Cantt – 6:25 PM

Train 22489 (Return – Varanasi to Meerut):

Varanasi Cantt – 9:10 AM

Ayodhya Dham – 11:40 AM

Lucknow – 1:30 PM

Bareilly – 5:15 PM

Moradabad – 6:50 PM

Meerut City – 9:05 PM

3. Faster, Comfortable, and Modern Travel Option

The train will operate with Vande Bharat’s modern coaches, offering better seating, onboard services, and high-speed travel on dedicated priority tracks. Passengers can expect reduced travel time, clean amenities, and improved punctuality.

4. Benefits for Students, Professionals, and Tourists

The route is expected to be particularly beneficial for:

Students commuting between university hubs in Meerut, Lucknow, and Varanasi

Business professionals and entrepreneurs needing fast intercity connectivity

Tourists and pilgrims visiting Ayodhya and Varanasi, two major religious destinations 

5. Boost to Regional Mobility and Tourism

The route also strengthens connectivity between central and eastern Uttar Pradesh, encouraging religious tourism through Ayodhya and Varanasi, and supports economic activity by enabling quicker logistics and mobility for working-class travelers.

With the addition of this new route, the Indian Railways continues its expansion of the Vande Bharat Express fleet, aimed at transforming short- and medium-distance travel across India.