Updated: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off the new Vande Bharat Express between Patliputra and Gorakhpur, passing through Muzaffarpur and Bettiah, from Siwan, Bihar on June 20, 2025.
Gorakhpur to Patliputra Vande Bharat Express: Opening a new chapter in Bihar’s rail journey with unmatched speed, safety, and comfort across one of north-eastern India’s key routes.
A Historic Launch for North-Eastern India’s Connectivity
In a major step forward for India’s modern railway revolution, the Gorakhpur to Patliputra Vande Bharat Express will be virtually flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Bihar today, June 20, 2025. This new addition to the prestigious fleet of Vande Bharat Express trains not only boosts connectivity between Uttar Pradesh and Bihar but also adds prestige to one of the most vital rail corridors in the region. As Indian Railways continues to modernize its network with semi-high-speed trains, this launch represents a crucial upgrade for travelers in the north-eastern zone.
| 26501 Patliputra-Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express Train | 26502 Gorakhpur-Patliputra Vande Bharat Express Train |
Commercial Operations Start from June 22
The Patliputra-Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 26501) and the Gorakhpur-Patliputra Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 26502) are scheduled to begin commercial operations on June 22, 2025. These semi-high-speed trains will operate six days a week (Sunday to Friday) and remain non-operational on Saturdays for scheduled maintenance. The train comprises a total of 8 coaches — including 7 AC Chair Car (CC) coaches and 1 Executive Chair Car (EC) coach — designed to offer a modern, safe, and comfortable travel experience.
With this launch, Bihar is set to strengthen its presence on the Vande Bharat map, following the successful rollout of similar services across the country. This route strikes an ideal balance between regional accessibility and national development, connecting commuters, tourists, and business travelers with a faster and more efficient travel option between two rapidly growing urban centers.
Full Schedule and Journey Timings
The 26502 Gorakhpur to Patliputra Vande Bharat Express is scheduled to depart from Gorakhpur Junction at 05:40 AM and reach Patliputra Junction at 12:45 PM, covering a total distance of 384 kilometers in approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes. In the reverse direction, the 26501 Patliputra to Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express is set to depart from Patliputra Junction at 03:30 PM and arrive at Gorakhpur Junction at 10:30 PM, taking about 7 hours. With an average speed of 55 km/h and a maximum permissible speed of 110 km/h, the train is optimized for both speed and reliability—especially along a route that has traditionally faced delays and congestion.
Route and Key Halts
This semi-high-speed train is scheduled to halt at eight intermediate stations, enhancing access to key regional towns. The stops include: Kaptanganj Junction, Bagaha, Narkatiaganj Junction, Bettiah, Sagauli Junction, Bapudham Motihari, Muzaffarpur Junction, and Hajipur Junction. These halts expand the train’s utility beyond just the two terminal cities, offering vital connectivity for passengers in northern Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Interestingly, the train will reverse direction at Muzaffarpur Junction — a crucial operational maneuver that helps streamline the remainder of the journey toward Patliputra. This feature is designed to improve not only speed but also future scheduling flexibility.
Gorakhpur–Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express Fare Details
The fare structure for the Gorakhpur–Patliputra–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat Express is expected to be competitively priced while delivering premium comfort and modern facilities. For AC Chair Car (CC), the estimated fare ranges between ₹400 and ₹800, depending on the boarding and destination stations. Passengers choosing the Executive Chair Car (EC) can expect fares in the range of ₹700 to ₹1,600. These rates reflect the train’s semi-high-speed service, advanced safety features, and superior passenger experience.
Coach Composition and Passenger Experience
Both 26501 and 26502 Vande Bharat Express trains will offer Executive Chair Car (EC) and Chair Car (CC) classes. These coaches are equipped with comfortable reclining seats, automatic sliding doors, large panoramic windows, modern LED lighting, and onboard infotainment systems. The trains will also feature bio-vacuum toilets, overhead luggage racks, mobile charging points, and the Kavach safety system — India’s indigenous train collision avoidance technology. From sleek aerodynamic design to digital displays and GPS-enabled passenger information systems, this Vande Bharat service is set to deliver a next-generation rail experience, offering comfort and punctuality that rivals air and road travel.
A Boost to Regional Travel and Economic Growth
This upcoming Vande Bharat train in Bihar is expected to benefit thousands of commuters, particularly in districts such as Motihari, Muzaffarpur, Bettiah, Hajipur, and Gorakhpur. It is set to strengthen the rail network connecting north Bihar with eastern Uttar Pradesh, offering improved connectivity for students, professionals, pilgrims, and tourists. The train is also anticipated to enhance access to the Buddhist Circuit and important administrative cities like Patna and Gorakhpur, giving a strong boost to the growth of semi-high-speed rail infrastructure in the region.
Final Thoughts: A Symbol of Progress and Mobility
The inauguration of the Gorakhpur to Patliputra Vande Bharat Express marks more than just the launch of a train—it represents a moment of transformation. As India advances toward smarter, faster, and greener transportation, this route is poised to become a symbol of hope and development for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Each new Vande Bharat train brings the nation closer to its vision of world-class infrastructure and accessible mobility for all.
Once operational, passengers will be able to enjoy faster travel, modern amenities, and enhanced service between Patna and Gorakhpur—reinforcing why the Vande Bharat initiative is regarded as a flagship mission of Indian Railways. It’s not just about reaching destinations more quickly; it’s about traveling in a smarter, safer, and more dignified way.
