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Marking a significant milestone in Indian Railways’ modernisation journey, subsection Southern Railway has proudly launched its first Amrit Bharat Express. Symbolising a new era of affordable comfort and enhanced connectivity, this train is designed with modern and passenger-centric amenities. Blending tradition and innovation, while promising a superior travel experience for the common traveller, this new launch on September 15, 2025, was done under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Reflecting India's commitment towards inclusive growth, the new Amrit Bharat Express boasts of regional development and visionary rail infrastructure transformation.
About Amrit Bharat Express
The Indian Railways' first Amrit Bharat Express connecting South to the North is the recently launched one, operating between Erode in Tamil Nadu to Jogbani in Bihar. Marking a significant stride in long-distance, affordable rail travel, the Amrit Bharat Express route covers over 3300 km across eight railway zones. The Amrit Bharat Express schedule operates through weekly services, connecting the southern and eastern ends of India with 50 scheduled stops. Comprising 22 coaches, which are mainly unreserved second-class seating, this train is highly accessible for common passengers. This launch reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing connectivity under the Amrit Bharat Scheme.
Key features of the Amrit Bharat Express
Inaugurated on September 15, 2025, which also featured an inaugural special run, the southern railway Amrit Bharat Expressway operates under train numbers 16601/16602. Here are some of the key features of the trains-
- Push-pull system- The Amrit Bharat Expressway uses two locomotives, one located at the front and one at the rear. This has been established for a more efficient and comfortable journey, reducing jerks.
- Affordable travel- The train is designed to provide high quality travel experience at an affordable price.
- Non-AC coaches- The Amrit Bharat Expressway features a mix of sleeper class (non-AC) and general second class coaches to make travel more economical.
- Weekly service- The Amrit Bharat Expressway timings are once a week, which strengthens connectivity between South India and Bihar.
- Commercial stops- The Amrit Bharat Expressway route includes a large number of commercial stops, providing extensive connectivity to smaller towns and cities along the way.
Exploring the major stops of the Amrit Bharat Express
The Amrit Bharat Expressway isn't just a train, but a pulsebeat across India’s heartland. Born of the vision to connect remote regions with urban centres, the train travels not just miles, but moments in history, culture, and everyday life. For travellers seeking stories in landscapes, flavours, and beauty in motion, this journey isn't just one that you take but live through.
1. Erode, Tamil Nadu
Nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu, Erode is a charming town known for its turmeric markets and handloom culture. As the train departs, you will see a countryside dotted with coconut groves and ancient temples. In case you arrive early, do visit the Bhavani Sangameswarar Temple, where three rivers merge, and the most tranquil start to your journey gets created.
2. Katpadi, Tamil Nadu
Stepping off at Katpadi gives you access to Vellore, which is home to the golden Sripuram Mahalakshmi Temple. The journey that you make from here is through rice paddies and temple towns. The region perfectly blends spirituality along with academia, which you can experience at the Vellore Institute of Technology, all of it making up for an interesting mix.
3. Perambur, Chennai
One of Chennai’s oldest neighbourhoods, Perambur, breathes the rhythm of urban life. Boasting a perfect blend of the Anglo-Indian culture, industrial history, and thriving food streets, don't forget to taste some spicy biryani and piping hot idlis before continuing northward.
4. Nagpur, Maharashtra
Located at the centre of our country, Nagpur is a city that feels like a turning point. Known for its juicy oranges and the historic Deekshabhoomi, it is also where the north and south cultures of India subtly intertwine. Step out for a quick bite of Saoji cuisine, which is a fiery delicacy of the region.
5. Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh
Travellers are often enchanted by the natural beauty of Jabalpur. A city where the Narmada river carves through white marble rocks at the Bhedaghat Falls, this city exudes a perfect laid-back charm, which is ideal for some reflection during your long journey.
6. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
One of the holiest cities on earth, Varanasi needs no introduction. As your train halts here, you are only a short ride away from the ghat, where the sadhus chant, diyas float, and life and death merge seamlessly. Even a brief stop here feels timeless.
7. Patna, Bihar
A city that was once ruled as Patliputra, today Patna is an evolving metropolis that is steeped in heritage. Visit the Golghar, Patna Sahib, or sip tea at a roadside stall while listening to the locals speak in lilting Maithili or Bhojpuri. The station is abuzz with students, traders, and pilgrims.