An Important Change for Two Key Routes
Travellers relying on two of the most popular Vande Bharat Express services originating from Varanasi will need to adjust their plans. Effective September 2, 2026, Indian Railways has advanced the departure times for the trains heading to Ranchi and Deoghar.
The adjustment, though minor, is crucial for passengers to avoid any last-minute hassles at the station. These routes are vital arteries of travel, connecting Uttar Pradesh's spiritual capital with important commercial and pilgrimage destinations in the neighboring state of Jharkhand.
New Time: Varanasi to Ranchi Vande Bharat
The service most affected is the Varanasi-Ranchi Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 20888). Previously, the train departed from Varanasi Junction at 4:05 PM. Under the revised schedule, the train will now depart 10 minutes earlier, at 3:55 PM. This train, which runs six days a week except for Tuesdays, is a preferred option for many, covering the 536-kilometer distance in approximately seven hours and 50 minutes. It is crucial for passengers to note that this time change only applies to the departure from Varanasi; the schedule for all subsequent stops remains the same.
New Time: Varanasi to Deoghar Vande Bharat
Similarly, the Varanasi-Deoghar Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22500) also has a new, earlier departure time. This service, which is especially popular among pilgrims visiting the Baidyanath Jyotirlinga temple in Deoghar, previously left Varanasi at 6:20 AM. Following the revision, the train will now begin its journey at 6:10 AM, a full 10 minutes ahead of its old schedule. Just like the Ranchi service, this change is only for the originating station, Varanasi. The arrival and departure timings at all other stations along its route are unaffected by this update.
Why Were the Schedules Changed?
According to statements from railway officials, the decision to revise the schedules was made for operational reasons. The primary goals are to improve the overall punctuality of the services and enhance passenger convenience. By creating a slightly earlier departure window from the busy Varanasi station, the railway network can better manage track congestion and ensure a smoother, more reliable journey for the Vande Bharat trains. Even a ten-minute adjustment can have a significant positive impact on the train's ability to maintain its timetable across the entire route.
Route, Stops, and What This Means for You
For passengers, the takeaway is simple: arrive at Varanasi station earlier than you used to. Someone accustomed to reaching the platform at 3:55 PM for the Ranchi train will now find they have missed it. The Varanasi-Ranchi Express makes several key stops, including Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, Gaya, Koderma, Bokaro Steel City, and Muri, before reaching its destination. The Deoghar service also connects several important towns. While the change is small, it requires a mental adjustment in planning your travel to the station. Double-checking your ticket and the official IRCTC or NTES app before leaving for the station is now more important than ever.
