Representative image (Image Internet)
Jammu: The Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has announced a special train service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Haridwar to manage the expected surge of pilgrims during Somvati Amavasya next week.
Officials said the train will operate as a fully reserved special service and will run only one round trip to accommodate devotees travelling for the auspicious occasion.
According to the railway authorities, Train No. 04606 will depart from Katra at 6:15 pm on June 14 and reach Haridwar at 6:30 am the next morning. On the return leg, Train No. 04605 will leave Haridwar at 5:20 pm on June 15 and arrive back in Katra at 7:00 am on June 16.
The special service will consist of 16 coaches, including Sleeper, General, AC 3-Tier and AC 2-Tier classes.
The train will halt at major stations along the route, including Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan station, Jammu Tawi, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar Cantt, Ludhiana, Ambala Cantt, Saharanpur and Roorkee.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal said the service has been introduced due to the expected rise in pilgrim traffic heading towards the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and onward journeys to Haridwar during Somvati Amavasya.
He added that passengers are advised to complete reservations in advance and travel with valid tickets. Railway authorities have also urged passengers to use the 139 helpline for booking-related information and updates.
Somvati Amavasya is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition, especially when it falls on a Monday. Devotees believe that taking a holy dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga on this day brings spiritual benefits and blessings.
In 2026, the occasion coincides with the Adhik Maas, making it even more significant for worshippers. Devotees typically observe fasting, perform rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and take part in charitable activities.
Holy dips, prayers at Shiva temples, and offerings such as milk, bel leaves and kheer are commonly performed as part of traditional observances on this day.
