Say goodbye to Holi travel nightmares! Indian Railways is rolling out 21 dedicated special trains to ferry passengers to Bihar, targeting the massive influx expected during the festival. Originating from Patna Junction, Pataliputra, and other Danapur division stations, these services will span the nation, providing much-needed relief to those working away from home.
Festival seasons like Holi transform railways into lifelines for India’s migrant workforce. Affordable fares and door-to-door connectivity draw crowds, but waitlisted tickets often force alternatives like buses or flights. This year, proactive planning brings 21 specials into play, operational from February 28 to April 3, 2026.
Highlighting the schedule: Puri-Patna special (08439) runs Saturdays from Feb 28-Mar 28; Patna-Puri (08440) Sundays Mar 1-29. A one-off pair connects Gondia-Patna (08861) on Mar 2 and return (08862) Mar 3. Delhi routes see daily Patna-New Delhi (03293) Mar 5-15 and reverse (03294) Mar 6-16. For southern links, Patna-Charlapalli (03253) operates Mon/Wed Mar 9-30, with returns on Wed (03254 Mar 11-Apr 1) and Fri (03255 Mar 13-Apr 3). Sheikhpura-Anand Vihar specials (02397/02398) run Sundays/Mondays Mar 8-16.
Danapur’s Senior DCM Abhinav Siddharth detailed enhanced arrangements at 11 key stops: Dildarnagar to Jhajha. Extra personnel from checking, RPF, and other wings will manage crowds, ensuring smooth operations.
Beyond mere transport, these trains foster family bonds during Holi’s vibrant celebrations. With detailed timings now public, passengers can plan confidently. Bookings open soon—act fast to celebrate the festival of colors stress-free.