Patna: Travellers planning to return to Bihar for Chhath Puja have an important date to mark on their calendars: advance reservation for journeys on November 9 will open on September 10 at 8 am.
With lakhs of people living outside Bihar expected to return home for the festival, heavy demand is anticipated as soon as reservations open. Passengers can book through IRCTC or at railway reservation counters.
Delhi, Mumbai and Gujarat routes likely to see rush
The biggest pressure is expected on routes connecting Bihar with major migrant and employment hubs, including:
- Delhi–Patna
- Mumbai–Patna
- Surat–Patna
- Ahmedabad–Patna
- Bengaluru–Patna
- Kolkata–Patna
During the Chhath season, demand on these routes typically rises sharply compared with normal periods. Waiting lists on popular trains can therefore increase rapidly after reservations open.
Once available seats are exhausted, booking status on some trains may move to “REGRET”, leaving passengers with fewer options.
Be ready before 8 am
Passengers planning to book online are advised to complete their preparations before the reservation window opens.
Travellers should log in to their IRCTC accounts in advance and keep details such as the travel date, train number and passenger information ready.
Having the required information prepared beforehand can help reduce the time needed to complete the booking once reservations open.
Advance and Tatkal bookings are different
Passengers should also distinguish between general advance reservations and Tatkal bookings, as the two operate under different rules and timings.
The Railways is also expected to operate special trains on several routes to handle the additional passenger rush during Chhath. However, schedules for such services are announced separately, and reservations open only after the respective trains are officially notified.
Passengers planning to reach Bihar by November 9 are therefore advised not to rely solely on special trains and to consider booking regular services as soon as advance reservations open.
Why November 9 matters
Chhath Puja draws a massive annual homecoming to Bihar, with people travelling from across the country to celebrate the festival with their families.
For those planning to reach the state by November 9, the reservation window opening at 8 am on September 10 could be crucial.
Early booking may improve the chances of securing a confirmed berth before the expected festive rush pushes popular trains into long waiting lists.
