Top News

In a bid to connect North with South, Indian Railways is all set to launch first-ever direct train service between Bengaluru in Karnataka and Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. The train will be launched on June 19, 2025 and this inaugural service, designated as Train No. 06597/06598, will offer a travel option for passengers willing to explore Uttarakhand.

Train route and schedule

The Yeshwantpur–Rishikesh Express Special (06597) will leave from Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru, at 7 AM on June 19, 26, and July 3, reaching Rishikesh at 10:20 AM the following day. The return journey, Train No. 06598, will depart from Rishikesh at 5:55 PM on June 21, 28, and July 5, arriving in Yeshwantpur at 7:45 PM on the following Monday. The train will go through major cities such as Nagpur, Bhopal, Agra, and Haridwar.

Train amenities

To make the journey comfortable, the train will offer a range of accommodations to suit different passenger preferences, including AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, AC 3 Tier, Sleeper Class, and General Unreserved coaches. Onboard catering services and e-catering options will also be available onboard. There are big windows from where passengers can enjoy scenic views. The train's maximum speed will be 130 km/h, with an average speed of 47 km/h, including stops.

This direct train service is an initiative to boost tourism and pilgrimage activities, especially for those visiting the Char Dham destinations in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh, the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, is noted for its spiritual significance and adventure tourism. The new much-needed train will enhance accessibility. The service also complements the ongoing development of the Rishikesh–Karnaprayag railway line, which is expected to be operational by December 2026.

Stops along the route


The journey from Bengaluru to Rishikesh isn’t just long, it’s going to be filled with some beautiful stops across several states. The train will stop at major railway stations including Yelahanka, Hindupur, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Dhone, Kurnool City, Kacheguda (Hyderabad), Kazipet, Balharshah, Nagpur, Bhopal, Bina, Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra Cantt., Mathura, Hazrat Nizamuddin (Delhi), Ghaziabad, Meerut City, Muzaffarnagar, Tapri, Roorkee, and Haridwar Junction before arriving at Rishikesh. This long route allows passengers to board or disembark at several major cities, making the train a perfect travel option for many.

Booking Information

Tickets for the Yeshwantpur–Rishikesh Express Special can be booked through the official Indian Railways website or at railway ticket counters. The introduction of this direct train service shows Indian Railways' commitment to enhancing cross-regional connectivity and providing convenient travel options for passengers across the country.