Bengaluru to Rishikesh Train – First Direct Service Launch on June 19

Bengaluru to Rishikesh by Train: First-Ever Direct Service Launches on June 19, 2025

Indian Railways is set to revolutionize inter-regional travel with the launch of the first-ever direct train service from Bengaluru to Rishikesh, starting June 19, 2025. This special train, named Yeshwantpur–Rishikesh Express Special (Train No. 06597/06598), will provide a comfortable and scenic travel option connecting South India with the spiritual and adventure capital of North India.

🛤️ A Historic Move for Cross-Country Connectivity

This new route bridges Bengaluru in Karnataka with Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, aiming to enhance tourism, pilgrimage travel, and cross-regional connectivity. It will especially benefit those looking to explore Char Dham destinations, visit spiritual retreats, or experience the Himalayan foothills.

📅 Train Schedule and Route Details

Outbound Journey: Bengaluru to Rishikesh (Train No. 06597)

• Departure: Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru – 7:00 AM

• Dates: June 19, June 26, and July 3, 2025

• Arrival: Rishikesh – 10:20 AM next day

Return Journey: Rishikesh to Bengaluru (Train No. 06598)

• Departure: Rishikesh – 5:55 PM

• Dates: June 21, June 28, and July 5, 2025

• Arrival: Yeshwantpur – 7:45 PM the following Monday

🏞️ Major Halts on the Route

The train covers multiple states and halts at major railway stations, making it accessible for passengers across India:

• Karnataka: Yeshwantpur, Yelahanka, Hindupur

• Andhra Pradesh: Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Dhone, Kurnool City

• Telangana: Kacheguda (Hyderabad), Kazipet

• Maharashtra: Balharshah, Nagpur

• Madhya Pradesh: Bhopal, Bina

• Uttar Pradesh: Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra Cantt., Mathura

• Delhi NCR: Hazrat Nizamuddin, Ghaziabad

• Uttarakhand: Meerut City, Muzaffarnagar, Tapri, Roorkee, Haridwar, Rishikesh

This vast list of halts ensures easy boarding and deboarding options from various regions.

🚆 Travel Classes and Onboard Services

To accommodate a wide range of travelers, the train will feature multiple classes:

• AC First Class

• AC 2 Tier

• AC 3 Tier

• Sleeper Class

• General Unreserved

Additionally, the train includes:

• Onboard catering

• E-catering options

• Panoramic windows for enjoying the scenic route

🔍 Travel Speed and Duration

• Maximum speed: 130 km/h

• Average speed: ~47 km/h (including halts)

• Travel duration: Approx. 27 hours 20 minutes

Though the journey is long, it promises panoramic views, comfort, and spiritual serenity upon arrival.

🕉️ Why This Train Matters

• Spiritual Boost: Enhances access to Char Dham Yatra starting point – Rishikesh

• Tourism Push: Rishikesh is a hub for yoga, meditation, and river rafting

• Strategic Route: Connects two culturally rich and economically strong regions

• Planned Expansion: Will integrate with the upcoming Rishikesh–Karnaprayag rail line, projected to launch by December 2026.

📌 Important Links and Resources

The launch of this direct Bengaluru–Rishikesh train marks a significant milestone in India’s railway connectivity. Whether you're a pilgrim, adventure seeker, or a frequent traveler, this new route offers a reliable and scenic option to traverse the country comfortably.

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of the newly launched Yeshwantpur–Rishikesh Express Special train service connecting Bengaluru to Rishikesh:

✅ Advantages

1. First-Ever Direct Connectivity

• This is the first non-stop train connecting Bengaluru and Rishikesh, removing the hassle of multiple transfers or alternate travel routes.

• Reduces travel stress for pilgrims, tourists, and regular travelers.

2. Boost to Tourism & Pilgrimage

• Direct access to Char Dham gateway—Rishikesh—will attract more devotees and tourists from the South.

• Highlights Uttarakhand as a top spiritual and adventure destination for travelers from the South.

3. Wide Accommodation Options

• Offers multiple travel classes: AC First Class, AC 2 Tier, AC 3 Tier, Sleeper, and General—making it affordable and comfortable for all categories of travelers.

4. Convenient Timings & Multiple Dates

• Operates on multiple dates with well-scheduled departures and arrivals, giving travelers flexibility.

5. Scenic and Strategic Route

• Covers important railway stations across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, MP, UP, Delhi, and Uttarakhand—great for people boarding from different regions.

6. Onboard Facilities

• Availability of e-catering, regular catering, and large windows enhance the journey experience.

7. Encourages National Integration

• Strengthens cultural and economic ties between North and South India by enabling easy and direct travel.

❌ Disadvantages

1. Long Travel Duration

• Journey time is over 27 hours, which may be too long for travelers used to flying or fast trains.

2. Limited Frequency

• Currently runs only on specific dates (weekly), which may not suit everyone’s schedule.

3. Lower Average Speed

• Although the train can reach 130 km/h, the average speed is only 47 km/h due to multiple stops, which increases overall travel time.

4. No Daily Service

• As it’s not a daily train, travelers have limited flexibility and must plan in advance.

5. Potential for Overcrowding

• Being a new and unique route with broad appeal, the train might experience heavy bookings and limited seat availability in early weeks.

6. Monsoon & Terrain-Related Delays

• Trains passing through Himalayan regions like Uttarakhand may face weather-related disruptions, especially during monsoons.

⚖️ Conclusion

The Yeshwantpur–Rishikesh Express is a major step in expanding India’s railway reach, offering spiritual, touristic, and practical value. While the journey is long and limited in frequency, its strategic importance, comfort levels, and religious relevance make it a significant and timely addition to Indian Railways’ offerings.