Holi Special Trains 2026: In a major boost for festive travelers, Indian Railways has announced the operation of more than 1,410 special trains during the Holi season in 2026. The move aims to ease passenger congestion, ensure smooth connectivity, and provide comfortable journeys across the country.
According to official sources, the total number of special services may rise to nearly 1,500 trains, depending on demand in peak travel corridors.
Holi 2026 Travel Boost: What Indian Railways Says
The national transporter stated that these services are specially planned to handle the surge in passengers during the festive period in March 2026.
In a statement, the Ministry of Railways said:
“These special services are aimed at meeting the surge in passenger demand during the festive period and ensuring smooth connectivity between major destinations.”
For comparison, during Holi 2025, Indian Railways had operated 1,144 special train trips, showing a significant increase in 2026.
Holi Special Trains 2026: Zone-Wise Distribution
Indian Railways has planned these special services across multiple railway zones. The East Central Railway will lead operations this year.
Railway Zone-Wise Holi Special Trains (2026)
| Railway Zone | Code | Special Trains |
|---|---|---|
| East Central Railway | ECR | 285 |
| Western Railway | WR | 231 |
| Central Railway | CR | 209 |
| Northern Railway | NR | 108 |
| North Western Railway | NWR | 71 |
| North Central Railway | NCR | 66 |
| North Eastern Railway | NER | 62 |
| East Coast Railway | ECOR | 62 |
| South Western Railway | SWR | 47 |
| West Central Railway | WCR | 43 |
| Southern Railway | SR | 39 |
| South East Central Railway | SECR | 15 |
| Konkan Railway | KR | 9 |
| Northeast Frontier Railway | NFR | 2 |
These zone-wise arrangements ensure balanced connectivity between northern, western, eastern, and northeastern regions.
Holi Special Trains by East Central Railway (ECR)
East Central Railway will operate the highest number of services in 2026. Here are some major special trains:
1. Sogaria-Danapur-Sogaria Special (09821/09822)
- Route: Sogaria (Kota) – Katni – Prayagraj Chhivki – DDU – Buxar – Ara – Danapur
- Departures:
- From Sogaria: Feb 28 & Mar 7, 2026 (23:10 hrs)
- From Danapur: Mar 2 & Mar 9, 2026 (01:15 hrs)
2. Rani Kamalapati-Danapur Special (01667/01668)
- Route: Itarsi – Jabalpur – Prayagraj Chhivki – DDU – Ara
- Operation Dates:
- From Rani Kamalapati: Feb 27 & Mar 2, 2026
- From Danapur: Feb 28 & Mar 3, 2026
3. Rani Kamalapati – Agartala Special (01665/01666)
- Route: DDU – Danapur – Patliputra – Hajipur – Barauni – Katihar
- Frequency:
- From Rani Kamalapati: Every Thursday (from Mar 5, 2026)
- From Agartala: Every Sunday (from Mar 8, 2026)
4. Hapa – Naharlagun Special (09525/09526)
- Route: Varanasi – Ballia – Chhapra – Hajipur – Barauni – Katihar
- Start Date: March 4, 2026
- Frequency: Weekly services in both directions
These long-distance trains will benefit passengers traveling between central, eastern, and northeastern India.
North Western Railway: Extended Special Train Services
North Western Railway has extended several weekly special trains for Holi 2026:
Major Extended Services
- 04715/04716: Bikaner – Sainagar Shirdi – Bikaner
- 04725/04726: Hisar – Khadki – Hisar
- 04727/04728: Hisar – Valsad – Hisar
- 04827/04828: Bhagat Ki Kothi – Bandra Terminus – Bhagat Ki Kothi
- 09621/09622: Ajmer – Bandra Terminus – Ajmer
- 09625/09626: Ajmer – Daund – Ajmer
- 09627/09628: Ajmer – Solapur – Ajmer
Most of these services will operate between March 1 and March 30, 2026, with multiple weekly trips.
Why Holi Special Trains 2026 Matter
The introduction of over 1,410 Holi Special trains will help:
- Reduce waiting lists and overcrowding
- Improve long-distance connectivity
- Support festival travel to hometowns
- Ensure safer and more comfortable journeys
- Manage peak-season demand efficiently
With Holi being one of India’s biggest festivals, these services play a crucial role in keeping travel smooth and affordable.
How Passengers Can Check Routes & Book Tickets
Travelers planning Holi journeys in 2026 are advised to:
- Check train schedules on official railway platforms
- Book tickets early to avoid last-minute rush
- Monitor announcements for additional special services
- Confirm stoppages and timings before travel
More special trains may be announced based on passenger demand.
Final Words
The Holi Special Trains 2026 initiative reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to passenger convenience during peak festive seasons. With expanded services, extended routes, and improved planning, millions of travelers are expected to benefit this year.
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