Air and Rail Connectivity Soars: Darbhanga to Ayodhya Travel Options Expanded for Devotees

Darbhanga: Pilgrims travelling from Darbhanga to Ayodhya can now benefit from enhanced connectivity, with the Amrit Bharat Express train (15557) gaining significant popularity. All seats on this route are fully booked until March 4th, according to information available on the IRCTC website as of January 23. However, seats can be reserved for travel starting March 7th.

The surge in demand is attributed to the recent consecration ceremony of the idol of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. The train service, which commenced operations from Darbhanga Junction on January 1st, features 11 sleeper class coaches, nine general coaches, and two SLR (seating cum luggage rake) coaches, totalling 24 coaches.

Prime Minister Modi ceremoniously flagged off the Amrit Bharat Express on December 30th, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving connectivity. Operating twice a week, the train departs from Darbhanga on Mondays and Thursdays and from Anand Vihar on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Complementing the train service, SpiceJet has introduced flight services from Darbhanga to Ayodhya, starting February 1st. Flight bookings are already underway, offering an alternative for pilgrims. Although air travel may entail higher costs, it provides a quicker and more convenient option for those journeying to the sacred city. According to SpiceJet’s website, the airfare for the Darbhanga to Ayodhya route is ₹8,320 for February 2nd, reduced to ₹7,900 for February 5th.

From February 1st, SpiceJet will operate flights from Darbhanga Airport to Ayodhya’s Maharshi Valmiki International Airport. Flight SG-3423 is scheduled to depart from Darbhanga at 11:20 AM, landing at Maharshi Valmiki International Airport at 12:30 PM. The return flight, SG-3422, will leave Ayodhya at 9:40 AM and arrive in Darbhanga at 10:50 AM, providing efficient air travel options for pilgrims.

These additional transportation services aim to facilitate smoother and faster journeys for individuals visiting Ayodhya for religious purposes.