Holi is not just a festival of colors—it is a celebration of togetherness. As March approaches, millions of people working in metro cities start planning their journey back home. Every year, the biggest concern remains the same: Will I get a confirmed train ticket?
Understanding this festive rush and passenger anxiety, Indian Railways has announced its biggest-ever Holi travel plan for 2026. To ensure smooth travel and reduce waiting lists, the Railways will operate around 1,410 to 1,500 special trains across the country during the Holi season.
Record Number of Special Trains This Year
According to railway officials, this is the highest number of Holi special trains ever operated. In comparison, about 1,144 special trains were run last year. With a sharp increase in passenger demand, especially from migrant workers and professionals heading back to their hometowns, the Railways has significantly expanded capacity in 2026.
These special trains will operate on high-demand routes and cover major long-distance corridors connecting metros with smaller cities and towns.
Special Focus on UP and Bihar Routes
Historically, the highest passenger traffic during Holi is seen on routes heading towards Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Keeping this in mind, the East Central Railway (ECR) has taken the lead by operating around 285 special trains.
Direct special trains are being run from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Pune to key destinations such as Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Gorakhpur, and Varanasi, offering major relief to travelers.
Zone-Wise Breakdown of Holi Special Trains
Indian Railways has planned operations zone-wise to manage crowds efficiently. Key zones include:
- Western Railway: Around 231 special trains
- Central Railway: Approximately 209 trains
- South Central Railway: Nearly 160 special services
- Northern Railway: About 108 trains
Other zones such as North Western Railway, North Central Railway, and South Eastern Railway are also contributing dozens of additional trains based on regional demand.
Extra Arrangements at Major Stations
Railways is not only increasing train frequency but also strengthening station-level arrangements. Busy stations like New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Mumbai Central, and Patna Junction will see enhanced security deployment, crowd control measures, and additional staff.
Facilities such as extra ticket counters, drinking water availability, waiting halls, and help desks are being improved to ensure passenger comfort during peak travel days.
How to Book Tickets for Special Trains
Passengers can book tickets for Holi special trains through:
- IRCTC official website
- IRCTC mobile application
- Railway reservation counters
Railway authorities strongly advise passengers to book tickets early to avoid last-minute rush and high waiting lists.
Final Word
Indian Railways’ decision to run nearly 1,500 special trains for Holi 2026 brings huge relief to millions of travelers. This large-scale operation is expected to significantly reduce ticket shortages, ease congestion, and make festive travel safer and more comfortable.
So pack your bags, confirm your tickets, and get ready to celebrate Holi 2026 with your loved ones—without travel stress.
