India And Bhutan Sign Historic Rail Pact: Train Travel Between The Two Nations Soon A Reality
New Delhi and Thimphu (Bhutan's Capital) have signed two landmark railway projects and here's everything you need to know.
When discussing India and its neighboring countries, Bhutan is often highlighted as a top destination. Known for its stunning natural beauty, treks and trails and culture, Bhutan allows Indian travellers to visit without a visa. You can easily fly to Bhutan through direct flights to Paro International Airport. But what if we told you that a train journey to Bhutan from India is on the cards? Yes, it’s true! New Delhi and Thimphu (Bhutan's Capital) have signed two landmark railway projects, marking a significant development in their longstanding relationship. One project will connect Banarhat in West Bengal to Samtse in Bhutan, while the other will link Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan. Read on for all the deets.
This exciting news was announced by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on September 29, 2025, highlighting these routes as the first rail connections between the two countries. The project, which spans 89 kilometers and has an estimated cost of around INR 4,033 crore, will integrate Bhutan more closely with India's extensive railway network.
Promised & delivered - India & Bhutan to establish two cross-border rail links (89 km | ₹4,033 Cr) 🇮🇳🇧🇹 🛤️ Kokrajhar–Gelephu (69 km) 🛤️ Banarhat–Samtse (20 km)
✅ This milestone will unlock new economic opportunities, strengthen connectivity, and deepen India–Bhutan ties. pic.twitter.com/J5fX60NS9k
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) September 29, 2025
Key Details To Know About India And Bhutan Train Line
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on X (formerly Twitter) that India and Bhutan will establish two new cross-border rail links, covering a total of 89 km and costing INR 4,033 crore. The links include a 69 km route from Kokrajhar to Gelephu and a 20 km route from Banarhat to Samtse. This achievement will create new economic opportunities, improve connectivity, and enhance the relationship between India and Bhutan.
Gelephu is being developed as a “Mindfulness City” in line with the vision of Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. And Samtse is becoming a center for industry. The opening of the India-Bhutan train route will enhance passenger and freight transport through the Indian access points at Banarhat and Kokrajhar.
The construction of the Kokrajhar-Gelephu line will have six stations, two viaducts, nearly 100 bridges, and around 40 underpasses. It is set to be completed in four years.
The shorter Banarhat-Samtse line spans 20 km, featuring two stations, 25 bridges, a flyover, and 37 underpasses within three years.
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Yogita Chainani
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Yogita Chainani is the website content head for unstumbled and has previously served as the social media head for CurlyTales Middle East. She has collaborated with brands such as PinkVilla, Connector, TopSpots Dubai, Thatscoop, and several other publications in the food and travel space. An avid traveler, Yogita is on a quest to explore the world, one country and city at a time. She studied journalism at IIJNM Bangalore and HR College in Mumbai. With her strong expertise in travel guides,...
