The Delhi to Prayagraj train route is one of India’s busiest and most popular, connecting the bustling capital to the spiritual heart of Uttar Pradesh. Covering approximately 630–636 kilometers, this route is a lifeline for pilgrims heading to the Triveni Sangam, tourists exploring Prayagraj’s cultural landmarks, and daily commuters. With the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 drawing millions, the route saw significant updates to handle the surge. As of July 31, 2025, here’s a detailed guide on the latest developments, train options, and travel tips for the Delhi to Prayagraj journey, based on reliable sources, to help you plan a smooth trip.
A Key Route for Pilgrims and Travelers
Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad, is a city steeped in spirituality, home to the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. The Delhi to Prayagraj train route is favored for its convenience, affordability, and scenic views of North India’s landscapes, passing through fields, villages, and small towns. With 10 railway stations in Prayagraj—including Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ), Prayagraj Sangam (PYGS), and Subedarganj—and 19 in Delhi, including New Delhi (NDLS) and Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT), travelers have multiple boarding and deboarding options. The route supports a variety of trains, from superfast expresses to luxurious Rajdhanis, catering to different budgets and schedules.
Maha Kumbh 2025: Surge in Train Services
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, held from January 13 to February 26, brought an estimated 60 crore pilgrims to Prayagraj, far exceeding initial projections. To manage this unprecedented crowd, Indian Railways introduced 300 special trains to and from Prayagraj, with many operating on the Delhi route. These included unreserved Mela Special trains and ring rail services connecting Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj Rambagh, Varanasi, Janghai, Jafrabad, and Ayodhya Dham. For instance, train numbers 04111 and 04112, with 12 MEMU coaches each, ran from January 10 to February 28 (excluding January 28–30 for Mauni Amavasya) to ease pilgrim travel.
However, the massive influx led to challenges. A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on February 17, 2025, claimed 18 lives, prompting stricter crowd control measures. Prayagraj Sangam Railway Station, near the Mela grounds, was closed from February 17 to February 28 to prevent congestion, diverting passengers to other stations like Prayagraj Junction. Delays and cancellations were common during peak Mela days, especially around major bathing festivals like Basant Panchami. Travelers were advised to check live train status on platforms like RailYatri or ixigo to stay updated.
Train Options and Upgrades
As of July 2025, approximately 150 weekly trains operate from Delhi to Prayagraj, with 26 running daily, offering ample choices. The fastest train is the Vande Bharat Express (22436), covering 636 km in just 6 hours and 8 minutes, departing New Delhi (NDLS) at 6:00 AM and arriving at Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ) at 12:08 PM on all days except Thursday. Ticket prices start at ₹1,595 for a chair car, making it a premium yet efficient option. The cheapest train is the Mahananda Express (15484), taking 10 hours and 5 minutes, with tickets starting at ₹360 for a sleeper class, departing NDLS at 7:35 AM daily.
A notable upgrade is the introduction of Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) rakes for the Unchahar Express (14217), which runs from Delhi to Prayagraj Sangam (PYGS). Starting July 23, 2025, the train switched from older ICF coaches to LHB rakes, offering a smoother, safer ride. It now includes an AC Economy coach, a budget-friendly air-conditioned option, departing New Delhi at 2:16 PM and arriving at PYGS at 4:00 AM. The return train (14218) leaves PYGS at 10:10 PM and reaches Delhi by 11:30 AM. This upgrade enhances comfort for pilgrims and regular travelers alike.
Other popular daily trains include:
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RJPB Tejas Rajdhani (12310): Departs NDLS at 5:10 PM, arrives PRYJ at 12:01 AM (6 hours 51 minutes), ticket price ~₹2,295 for 3A.
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Prayagraj Express (12418): Departs NDLS at 10:10 PM, arrives PRYJ at 7:00 AM (8 hours 50 minutes), ticket price ~₹390 for sleeper.
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Shiv Ganga Express (12560): Departs NDLS at 8:05 PM, arrives PRYJ at 3:45 AM (7 hours 40 minutes), ticket price ~₹385 for sleeper.
Weekly trains like the Humsafar Express (12276) and Poorva Express (12304) offer additional flexibility, with travel times ranging from 6 hours 48 minutes to 15 hours depending on the train and stops.
Booking and Ticketing
Booking a Delhi to Prayagraj train ticket is straightforward through platforms like redRail, ixigo, Paytm, or MakeMyTrip. Advance reservations open 120 days before travel (excluding the journey date), allowing up to six passengers per booking, plus two children under 5 without tickets. Tatkal bookings, for last-minute travel, allow up to four passengers and require Aadhaar-linked IRCTC accounts. Ticket prices range from ₹360 for sleeper class to ₹2,760 for 1A on premium trains like Rajdhani. Use codes like “BIGRAIL” on redRail for discounts or “RAILDEAL” on MakeMyTrip for ₹100 off.
For real-time updates, apps like RailYatri provide live train status, PNR checks, and platform details. During the Maha Kumbh, high demand led to waitlisted tickets, but platforms like ixigo offered “Assured Flex” for free cancellations or triple refunds on waitlisted tickets. Valid ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport) is required during travel.
Challenges and Incidents
The Maha Kumbh strained the route, with reports of overcrowding and delays. A notable incident involved a parcel mix-up at Prayagraj Sangam Station, where a traveler’s bike was mistakenly sent to Assam instead of Bihar, resolved after social media complaints. Overcrowding at New Delhi and Anand Vihar stations prompted additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) deployment and barricading to manage queues. Travelers were advised to arrive early and use online platforms for updates.
Travel Tips and Accessibility
The Delhi to Prayagraj route is well-connected, with major Delhi stations like NDLS, ANVT, and Old Delhi Junction (DLI) offering frequent departures. In Prayagraj, deboarding options include Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj Sangam, or Subedarganj, depending on your destination. For Maha Kumbh visitors, Prayagraj Junction was the primary hub due to Sangam Station’s closure. The route takes 6–15 hours, with superfast trains like Vande Bharat being ideal for time-conscious travelers.
Prayagraj’s key attractions, like the Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort, and Anand Bhawan, are 5–10 km from major stations, accessible via taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses. Hotels near Prayagraj Junction, such as Hotel Milan Palace or Grand Continental, cater to various budgets. For a hassle-free trip, book early, especially during festive seasons, and carry warm clothing for winter night journeys.
Looking Ahead
The Delhi to Prayagraj train route remains a vital link, with Indian Railways enhancing services through modern coaches and special trains. Post-Maha Kumbh, regular operations have resumed, but travelers should monitor schedules for residual delays. Whether you’re a pilgrim visiting the Sangam or a tourist exploring Prayagraj’s heritage, this route offers a reliable, scenic journey steeped in convenience and culture.
