The Bhagalpur–Jammu Tawi Amarnath Express is a long‑distance express train operated by Indian Railways that runs between Bhagalpur Junction (BGP) in the state of Bihar and Jammu Tawi (JAT) in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The service is designated by the train numbers 15631 (Bhagalpur → Jammu Tawi) and 15632 (Jammu Tawi → Bhagalpur).
Operation and schedule
- Frequency: Weekly.
- Approximate distance covered: 2,005 km (1,246 mi).
- Journey time: About 42 hours, depending on operational conditions.
- Departure and arrival days vary by direction; the train typically departs Bhagalpur on a Thursday and reaches Jammu Tawi on Saturday, with the return service departing Jammu Tawi on a Sunday and arriving at Bhagalpur on Tuesday.
Route
The train traverses six Indian states and one union territory: Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir. Major intermediate stations include, among others, Patna Junction, Varanasi (via its junction), Lucknow NR, Moradabad, Saharanpur, and Ludhiana Junction.
Coach composition and classes
The typical rake consists of ICF‑type coaches arranged as follows:
- 1 AC 2‑tier coach
- 2 AC 3‑tier coaches
- 7 Sleeper‑class coaches
- 2 General‑unreserved coaches
- 1 SLR (seating with luggage rake) compartment at each end
The train does not include a pantry car; catering is usually provided by station‑based vendors.
Operating zone
The service is managed primarily by the Eastern Railway zone, with coordination from the Northern Railway zone for the segment within its jurisdiction.
Purpose and naming
The name “Amarnath” references the Amarnath pilgrimage site in Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the train’s role in facilitating travel for pilgrims and other passengers heading to the northern region.
References
Information is compiled from publicly available Indian Railways timetables, official railway enquiry portals, and operational notices released by the Eastern and Northern Railway zones.
