Railway Holi Specials 2026: Anticipating a massive influx of passengers traveling home for Holi, the festival of colors, the Indian Railways has prepared a comprehensive plan. The Railway Ministry has announced that more than 1, 410 Holi special trains will be operated this year for the convenience of passengers.
This number could even reach 1, 500 due to the increasing passenger demand. Compared to last year, i.e.,2025, when the Railways operated 1, 144 trains, this time the number of trains has been significantly increased to increase the chances of getting confirmed tickets and effectively manage crowds at stations.
Bihar and Uttar Pradesh Routes Get Major Focus
Travellers traveling to North and East India receive the highest number of passengers during the festival. Keeping this in mind, the Railway Ministry has allocated trains zone-wise. East Central Railway will operate the highest number of 285 special trains, primarily connecting various cities in Bihar and Jharkhand with the rest of the country.
Following this, Western Railway will operate 231 trains and Central Railway will operate 209 trains to provide relief to workers and professionals returning home from industrial hubs like Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad.
North-South Connectivity Network
Railways have also strengthened connectivity between South and North India. South Central Railway will operate a total of 160 trains, while Northern Railway has planned 108 and North Western Railway 71 special trains. Furthermore, North Central Railway will operate 66 trains, North Eastern Railway and East Coast Railway 62 each.
South Western Railway will operate 47 trains, West Central Railway 43, and Southern Railway 39. To meet shorter routes and regional demand, Konkan Railway has proposed 9 special trains, and Northeast Frontier Railway has proposed 2 special trains.
Passenger Safety and Amenities
Along with the operation of these special trains, the Railways has issued strict guidelines for safety and convenience. Additional security forces will be deployed at major stations, and special arrangements will be made to manage crowds at ticket counters.
Passengers are advised to book their seats as early as possible through the official railway app or website. The Ministry of Railways’ goal is to ensure that no passenger faces any inconvenience during this festive season and that everyone can reach home safely to celebrate Holi with their families.
