With Raksha Bandhan around the corner, we’re sure many of you have already made travel plans, while those who haven’t may be panicking over sold-out bus and train tickets! But don’t worry, travel authorities are stepping up to manage the festive rush. From Uttar Pradesh offering free bus travel to women to Indian Railways running special trains on key routes, there are several measures in place to make your journey home a little easier. Here’s all you need to know.
Raksha Bandhan 2026: UP Offers Free Bus Rides To Women
According to NDTV, to manage the expected rush during Raksha Bandhan 2026, the Uttar Pradesh government has asked the state transport corporation to run additional buses from August 26 to 31. Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh said the move is aimed at making travel easier for passengers during the six-day festive period.
According to a PTI report, all corporation buses will remain operational during these days, with extra services added on routes that see higher demand, particularly towards eastern Uttar Pradesh. Additional buses will also run on key routes connecting Lucknow and Kanpur, as well as on routes connecting Delhi to eastern UP via Moradabad-Bareilly and Aligarh-Kanpur.
Women will also be able to travel for free on state-run buses during Raksha Bandhan, with the facility available from 6 AM on August 27 until midnight on August 29.
The government has also directed officials to ensure that bus stops and buses have adequate drinking water, cleanliness, lighting and fans. A 24-hour control room will be set up to monitor services and assist passengers across the state.
Also Read: Delhi Metro Clocks Record-Breaking 82 lakh Trips On Raksha Bandhan Eve
Railways Announces Special Trains
Not just buses, Indian Railways has also announced special trains to manage the rush during Raksha Bandhan 2026 and help passengers travel between major cities. The services will connect several key routes, including Jaipur-Rewari, Phulera-Rewari, Kota-Durgapura, Jaipur-Bandra Terminus and Hisar-Hadapsar.
The Jaipur-Bandra Terminus special will connect Rajasthan with Mumbai, while the Hisar-Hadapsar service will offer an additional option for passengers travelling between Haryana and Pune. Other special trains will cater to passengers travelling within Rajasthan and between Rajasthan and Haryana.
These services will operate between August 22 and August 31, with stops at several major stations along the routes. Passengers are advised to check the latest timings, stoppages and ticket availability before travelling, as schedules may change.
Also Read: Kunal Kapur & Vinesh Johny Bring Reimagined Koat Pitha To Pincode; Why Is This Dessert Special?
We hope this information will help you plan your journey better!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/triloks & Canva Pro/Khaya Motsa (representative image)
FAQs
When is Raksha Bandhan 2026?
Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 28, 2026.
Can women travel for free on UP state buses during Raksha Bandhan?
Yes, women can avail free travel on state-run buses from 6 AM on August 27 to midnight on August 29.
Which routes will have Raksha Bandhan special trains?
Special services include routes such as Jaipur-Rewari, Phulera-Rewari, Kota-Durgapura, Jaipur-Bandra Terminus and Hisar-Hadapsar.
