Overview
- The Ministry of Railways on November 14, 2026 approved a weekly passenger service linking Janakpur Dham in Nepal with Ayodhya Cantt. in Uttar Pradesh.
- The route is about 604 kilometres long and will stop at Jaynagar, Madhubani, Shisho, Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Narkatiaganj, Gorakhpur, Basti, Mankapur and Ayodhya Dham in addition to its terminals.
- The service is scheduled to originate from Janakpur Dham on Saturdays and from Ayodhya Cantt. on Mondays according to the rail ministry announcement.
- Officials say the link is intended to ease travel for pilgrims and tourists visiting Ramayana sites and to support students, business travellers and local economies along the route.
- Trial runs have been reported and a virtual flag‑off by the prime ministers of India and Nepal is expected on November 23, 2026, with final customs, immigration and technical arrangements to be settled between the two governments before regular operations begin.