The Delhi–Varanasi Bullet Train Project, announced in the Union Budget 2026–27, will connect Delhi, Jewar, Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Varanasi through a high-speed rail corridor of approximately 813–865 km. The bullet train will operate at speeds of up to 350 kmph (around 320 kmph operational speed) and is targeted for completion by 2031.
The project will significantly reduce travel time, with Delhi–Lucknow taking just 2 hours 10 minutes, Delhi–Varanasi about 3.5–4 hours, and Jewar–Lucknow only 1 hour 40 minutes. The estimated project cost is ₹2.3 lakh crore.
The corridor will pass through major cities including Delhi, Noida, Jewar Airport, Mathura, Agra, Etawah, Kannauj, Lucknow, Raebareli, Prayagraj, Bhadohi, and Varanasi. A 124-km branch line will also connect Lucknow and Ayodhya, reducing travel time to 35–40 minutes.
Key Highlights of the Delhi–Varanasi Bullet Train
- Length: ~813–865 km
- Speed: Max 350 kmph; operational speed ~320 kmph
- Travel Time:
- Delhi → Lucknow: 2 hr 10 min
- Jewar → Lucknow: 1 hr 40 min
- Delhi → Jewar: 21 min
- Delhi → Varanasi: 3.5–4 hr
- Cost Estimate: ₹2.3 lakh crore
- Completion Target: 2031
- Stops: Delhi (Hazrat Nizamuddin/Sarai Kale Khan), Noida, Jewar Airport, Mathura, Agra, Etawah, Kannauj, Lucknow, Raebareli, Prayagraj, Bhadohi, Varanasi
- Branch Line: 124 km Lucknow–Ayodhya (35–40 min travel time)
