Yeshwantpur Rishikesh Express Special: First-Ever Direct Train Service

In a major step toward enhancing North-South connectivity, Indian Railways is set to launch the first-ever direct train service between Bengaluru in Karnataka and Rishikesh in Uttarakhand. This new route, via the Yeshwantpur Rishikesh Express Special (Train No. 06597/06598), will begin operations on June 19, 2025, providing a convenient and scenic travel option for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Yeshwantpur Rishikesh Express Special - Route and Schedule

The Yeshwantpur Rishikesh Express Special (06597) will depart from Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru at 7:00 AM on June 19, 26, and July 3, and reach Rishikesh at 10:20 AM the following day.
The return train, 06598, will leave Rishikesh at 5:55 PM on June 21, 28, and July 5, arriving in Yeshwantpur at 7:45 PM the next Monday.

The train will pass through several major cities including Nagpur, Bhopal, Agra, and Haridwar, offering multiple boarding and disembarkation points across states.

Coach Classes and Facilities

The train offers a variety of travel classes to suit all budgets:

• AC First Class
• AC 2 Tier
• AC 3 Tier
• Sleeper Class
• General Unreserved

Passengers can enjoy onboard catering and e-catering services. Large windows have been included in the design for enjoying picturesque views along the route. The train is expected to reach a top speed of 130 km/h, with an average speed of 47 km/h, including scheduled stops.

Purpose and Significance

This direct connection aims to boost tourism and pilgrimage travel, especially to Uttarakhand's sacred destinations like Rishikesh and the Char Dham circuit. Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh attracts both spiritual seekers and adventure lovers.

The service complements the ongoing Rishikesh-Karnaprayag railway line, expected to be operational by December 2026, further expanding rail connectivity in the Himalayan region.

Key Stops Along the Route

The journey will span multiple states and include stops at major railway stations such as:

• Yelahanka, Hindupur, Anantapur, Dharmavaram, Dhone, Kurnool City
• Kacheguda (Hyderabad), Kazipet, Balharshah, Nagpur
• Bhopal, Bina, Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra Cantt., Mathura
• Hazrat Nizamuddin (Delhi), Ghaziabad, Meerut City, Muzaffarnagar
• Tapri, Roorkee, Haridwar Junction, before terminating at Rishikesh

This extensive route makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers from across the country.

Booking Information

Tickets for the Yeshwantpur-Rishikesh Express Special can be booked via the Indian Railways website or at any authorised railway ticket counter.

This new service marks a significant milestone in Indian Railways' commitment to improving inter-regional connectivity and making travel more convenient and inclusive for all.