Source – https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/travel-news/railways-to-introduce-200-aastha-special-trains-to-ayodhya-from-jan-22/articleshow/106984129.cms
Publisher – Times Travel
Ahead of Ram Mandir inauguration, Indian Railways has decided to introduce 200 ‘Aastha Special Trains’ to Ayodhya from 22 January, 2024. Before this, a number of prominent airlines have announced their direct flights to the sacred city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh.
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As per reports, the trains will start after January 22, after the Pran Prathistha of the Ram Mandir is done. The Railway Ministry has decided to run these trains from Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities and these will be operational for 100 days after the Ram Mandir ceremony.
Anticipated routes on states such as Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Delhi have been outlined for the upcoming network to Ayodhya. These routes will establish connectivity between Tier 1 and Tier 2 towns in the respective states and Ayodhya.
Additionally, Indian Railways intends to introduce similar routes from each state culminating at Ayodhya, with upcoming connections expected from the North-East, likely originating from Guwahati, Assam.
As per the circular released by Indian Railways, reservations for these trains can only be made through the IRCTC app or website. The onboard catering will exclusively offer vegetarian meals. The charges for these trains encompass reservation fees, superfast charges, catering charges, service fees, and GST.
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In anticipation of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony on January 22, the Indian Railways is set to adorn and illuminate 343 stations throughout the country named after Lord Ram. The ceremonial event is part of the preparations for the mega Pran Prathistha ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla at the newly constructed Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya.
Among the states, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu lead with the highest number of stations bearing Lord Ram’s name, boasting 55 and 54 stations, respectively. Bihar follows closely as the state with the third-highest count of stations named after the revered deity.
The week-long rituals for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony commenced on Tuesday, culminating in the significant event on January 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to preside over the ceremonial installation of Ram Lalla, and the temple will be open for public ‘darshan’ starting January 23.
It’s noteworthy how finding both flight and train options to Ayodhya has become considerably more convenient!
