As the festive season approaches, trains connecting religious destinations such as Haridwar and Ayodhya are experiencing an unprecedented rush of passengers. With Shraddh rituals and Diwali vacations around the corner, trains on these routes are displaying “houseful” boards much in advance, reflecting the growing enthusiasm of people for spiritual travel. Among these, the Bhavnagar Haridwar Express has become one of the most sought-after options for passengers across Gujarat.
Growing Trend of Religious Tourism
Traditionally, Gujaratis are known for their love of travel. They often plan tours for leisure, sightseeing, and relaxation. However, in recent years, there has been a significant rise in religious circuit tourism. Pilgrimages and temple visits are now being combined with vacations, leading to a surge in demand for trains that connect Gujarat to India’s prominent spiritual destinations.
The introduction of direct trains such as the Bhavnagar–Ayodhya Express and the Bhavnagar Haridwar Express has provided a convenient way for devotees to visit holy cities without complex travel arrangements. This has not only made religious journeys easier but also encouraged more families to plan trips during the festival season.
Ayodhya Train Pulls Huge Crowds
The Bhavnagar–Ayodhya train has gained immense popularity because it connects passengers not only to Ayodhya, a major spiritual hub, but also to other well-known tourist cities. The train route includes Abu Road, Ajmer, and Jaipur, making it attractive for both devotees and leisure travelers.
Since its introduction, the Ayodhya-bound train has been receiving overwhelming bookings. Railway officials expect that even if additional special trips are announced during Diwali, the trains may still run houseful due to massive demand. The newly built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has further increased the flow of devotees, as people from across the country are eager to visit this sacred site.
Bhavnagar Haridwar Express: A Blessing for Devotees
The Bhavnagar Haridwar Express is proving to be a blessing for pilgrims traveling to North India. It not only connects Bhavnagar to Haridwar but also links passengers with other northern destinations, including Rishikesh. For many devotees, this train has become the easiest and most reliable way to embark on spiritual journeys.
Passengers highlight that the train has been running full ever since its launch. Even though the route currently takes a longer duration, nearly five extra hours compared to alternative routes, people are still preferring it because of the direct connection it provides to Haridwar.
Demand for Route Modification
Many passengers have requested the railway authorities to shorten the travel time by changing the current route. Officials are considering operating the Bhavnagar Haridwar Express via Delhi after Diwali, which could save hours of travel time. This proposed adjustment is being viewed positively by the railway department, as it may help manage the heavy festive rush more effectively.
Flood Situation in North India and Passenger Expectations
Although northern India has recently been affected by floods, passengers remain optimistic. They believe the situation will normalize before Diwali, and hence advance bookings are being made without hesitation. Haridwar and Rishikesh, along with Ayodhya, remain the top favorite destinations for religious travelers.
Spiritual Circuits Gaining Momentum
The surge in demand for trains like the Bhavnagar Haridwar Express clearly indicates a cultural shift. Pilgrimage tourism is no longer limited to older generations; even young families and working professionals are choosing these destinations for vacations. With Diwali being one of the most important festivals in India, trains linking Gujarat to Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand are likely to remain packed until the end of the holiday season.
Railway’s Role in Facilitating Pilgrimages
The Indian Railways has been proactive in ensuring that pilgrims face minimal inconvenience. Special trains are being announced during festive times to meet the growing demand. From Bhavnagar, dedicated services to Ayodhya and Haridwar are helping thousands of devotees fulfill their spiritual aspirations.
The newly inaugurated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has already attracted lakhs of pilgrims from across the nation, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming months. With Haridwar and Rishikesh being timeless favorites for religious tourism, the Bhavnagar Haridwar Express is set to play a vital role in connecting faith-seekers from Gujarat to the spiritual heart of North India.
Conclusion
The rush for train bookings ahead of Diwali highlights how deeply intertwined travel and spirituality have become in India. The Bhavnagar Haridwar Express and Bhavnagar–Ayodhya trains symbolize more than just transportation—they represent a bridge connecting people with their faith and traditions.
With advance bookings already touching record highs, passengers are advised to plan their journeys well in time. As the festive season brings together families, faith, and travel, the Bhavnagar Haridwar Express stands out as a lifeline for devotees seeking divine blessings in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and beyond.
