Indian Railways has announced a significant extension of the highly anticipated Vande Bharat Express service. The Meerut City–Lucknow Vande Bharat Express will now extend all the way to Varanasi, which will start on August 27, 2025. This will likely offer seamless high-speed connectivity among Meerut, Lucknow, Ayodhya, and Varanasi, serving millions of passengers in western and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Key details of the extension
- New Route: The Vande Bharat Express operating between Meerut City and Lucknow will now extend up to Varanasi. The train will serve all the major halts on the route so that pilgrims, tourists, and daily commuters can travel conveniently without needing to change trains.
- Start Date: The service will commence on August 27, 2025.
- Timetable Released: Indian Railways has released the new timetable, which will facilitate smooth travel and improve connections for passengers along the route.
Benefits and impact
- Direct Meerut–Varanasi Connectivity: This extension provides direct connectivity for passengers traveling between Meerut and Varanasi without needing to change trains at Lucknow, significantly reducing travel time.
- Pilgrimage and Tourism Boost: The train is expected to cater to a large number of pilgrims and tourists because it stops at two of India's holiest spiritual hubs, Ayodhya Dham and Varanasi.
Latest travel offering: The Vande Bharat train
Updated Travel Amenities: The Vande Bharat Express provides top-of-the-line conveniences, including seating arrangements, onboard catering, internet access, and advanced safety measures, positioning it as one of the most sought-after trains for the route.
How to reserve
- The new section of the Meerut City–Varanasi Vande Bharat Express can be reserved on the official IRCTC website (www.irctc.co.in) as well as on major railway booking counters.
- The commuters can view the revised timetable and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
In short
From August 27, 2025, the Vande Bharat Express will enable direct travel between Meerut City and Varanasi, with longer routes set to be announced later. Passengers in Uttar Pradesh can expect increased convenience and speed when traveling.