India launches Vande Bharat Express: A revolutionary high-speed rail corridor connecting Varanasi, Khajuraho and Chitrakoot to boost pilgrimage and heritage tourism

Posted on November 4, 2025

India has launched the Vande Bharat Express to connect the popular cities of Varanasi, Khajuraho and Chitrakoot, creating a transformative rail corridor aimed at promoting spiritual and cultural tourism. This high-speed route will provide a seamless travel experience, allowing pilgrims and heritage tourists to explore some of India’s most revered destinations with greater ease and efficiency. By connecting these holy cities, the new service also promotes sustainable and eco-friendly travel, making it easier for local and international visitors to connect with the country’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

India’s Vande Bharat Express network continues to grow, with the latest addition set to connect the cities of Varanasi, Khajuraho and Chitrakoot. This new high-speed rail route promises to provide an exceptional travel experience, combining modern rail travel with access to some of India’s most important spiritual and cultural attractions.

The new Vande Bharat Express will connect three cities, creating a unique corridor of spirituality and heritage. The route connects the sacred ghats of Varanasi, the stunning temples of Khajuraho, and the legendary landscape of Chitrakoot, providing an exciting new way for domestic and international travelers to explore India’s rich cultural and spiritual history. The train journey will be efficient, comfortable and environmentally friendly, providing a seamless experience for tourists interested in exploring these important sites.

Stretching across Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, the route connects two of the country’s most popular spiritual destinations – Varanasi and Khajuraho – while also passing through Chitrakoot, a region historically known for its religious importance but relatively less accessible. The Varanasi-Khajuraho Vande Bharat Highway forms a spiritual and cultural ‘golden triangle’, combining ancient traditions, architectural wonders and legendary monuments.

At one end of the road lies Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, home to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the sacred ghats of the Ganges. At the other end of the road stands Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its intricately carved temples showcasing the artistic sophistication of ancient India. The Khajuraho temples are a major attraction for art lovers and historians, as they offer stunning examples of India’s cultural heritage.

Located between Varanasi and Khajuraho, Chitrakoot holds a place of its own in India’s spiritual landscape. Despite its importance, Chitrakoot has remained somewhat isolated due to the lack of direct transportation links. The new Vande Bharat Express route will make it easier for travelers to reach this holy destination, which is traditionally associated with the mythological stories of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshman.

Promoting Hajj and domestic tourism
The Vande Bharat Express will significantly reduce travel time between Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, making it easier for pilgrims to visit multiple holy destinations in a single trip. It is now easy to reach major sites like Bandhavgarh and Maihar in Madhya Pradesh, which are known for their religious importance. The new train service is expected to increase religious tourism, especially among families, the elderly and spiritual seekers. The comfort and luxury offered by rail travel will encourage more people to embark on pilgrimages, fostering a greater connection with India’s sacred traditions.

Varanasi: a city in transformation
Varanasi, already a major destination for spiritual tourism, has witnessed significant development in recent years, especially after the completion of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham in 2021. This transformation has modernized the city while preserving its ancient charm. With the Vande Bharat Express making travel to the city more convenient, Varanasi is expected to see a rise in the number of visitors. The city offers a unique tourist experience, combining river cruises on the Ganges, heritage trails, traditional markets and a vibrant atmosphere that blends the ancient and the modern.

Revival of Khajuraho
Khajuraho, once a landmark on the Indian heritage circuit, has seen a decline in visitors in recent years due to limited connectivity. The introduction of Vande Bharat Express is expected to reverse this trend and bring more tourists to the region. The temples of Khajuraho, with their exquisite sculptures and architectural grandeur, remain one of India’s most important cultural treasures. The new railway line will make it easier for travelers to visit these famous temples and explore the rich history of the region.

Chitrakoot: A hidden spiritual gem
Chitrakoot, located along the Mandakini River, has long been a destination for spiritual seekers. Chitrakoot, known for its association with the exile of Lord Rama, has remained a relatively quiet destination compared to other pilgrimage cities. However, with the new Vande Bharat Express, Chitrakoot will become more accessible for visitors. The city’s temples, ghats and forest hills attract thousands of pilgrims, especially during festivals like Ram Navami and Diwali, and the new train service will make it easier for more people to experience its spiritual significance.

In addition to its cultural and religious value, the Vande Bharat Express represents a step towards more sustainable travel in India. By offering a convenient, eco-friendly and efficient alternative to air and road travel, Vande Bharat Express will help reduce the environmental impact of tourism while making it easier for people to visit these important destinations.

India has launched the Vande Bharat Express to connect Varanasi, Khajuraho and Chitrakoot, revolutionizing spiritual and cultural tourism. This high-speed rail route provides a faster and more convenient way for pilgrims and tourists to visit these popular destinations, promoting seamless travel and sustainable tourism.

This new road connecting Varanasi, Khajuraho and Chitrakoot represents an important development in tourism infrastructure in India. By enhancing access to key spiritual and cultural sites, the Vande Bharat Express will help boost religious and heritage tourism, and support the growth of these regions as must-visit destinations for pilgrims and travelers alike. With faster travel times, modern amenities and a seamless journey, this new rail service will make it easier for visitors to connect with India’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions.