The Indian Railways has officially renamed train number 12413/12414, previously known as the Ajmer-Jammu Tawi-Ajmer Superfast Express, to ‘Galtadham Puja Superfast Express’. This change takes immediate effect, as confirmed by a recent press release issued by the Railways.
The decision to rename the train reflects the growing emphasis on regional and cultural heritage, with the inclusion of ‘Galtadham’—a name rooted in religious significance—being seen as a step towards recognizing sacred destinations that hold spiritual importance for many travelers. The word “Puja”, associated with Hindu rituals and worship, is intended to resonate with the sentiments of pilgrims and tourists who frequently use this route.
Train number 12413 operates from Ajmer in Rajasthan to Jammu Tawi in Jammu & Kashmir, while the return service, train number 12414, makes the journey from Jammu Tawi back to Ajmer. The route remains unchanged, and the renaming will not affect the existing schedule, stops, or timings of the train.
Railway officials stated that all existing reservations and tickets will remain valid under the new name, ensuring a seamless transition for passengers. Digital platforms such as IRCTC and other third-party booking services will also reflect the new name to avoid any confusion.
The route of the Galtadham Puja Superfast Express continues to serve as a critical connector between the northern states of India, catering to thousands of passengers, including pilgrims, tourists, and daily commuters. Ajmer, a prominent city known for the revered Dargah Sharif and Pushkar temples, and Jammu Tawi, a vital railway junction close to Vaishno Devi shrine, make this service particularly significant in terms of religious tourism.
While no changes have been announced in terms of the operational details, onboard amenities, or travel fare, the renaming is seen as part of a broader strategy by Indian Railways to align train identities more closely with cultural and regional themes.
The Railway Board, under the Ministry of Railways, has recently been on a drive to update and rationalize train names, especially those reflecting devotional circuits. A similar trend was witnessed with other trains being renamed after regional pilgrimage spots or historic figures. The intent, according to senior railway officials, is to strengthen the emotional and cultural connection with passengers while promoting tourism to lesser-known yet spiritually significant destinations.
According to an internal circular issued to zonal railways, all station masters, reservation clerks, and onboard staff have been informed of the updated nomenclature. Updated signage, charts, digital display boards, and public address systems will also reflect the new train name starting from the next scheduled service.
This renaming aligns with Indian Railways’ broader vision to enhance passenger engagement and identity of services beyond just operational convenience. It marks an effort to make Indian trains not only means of travel but also vehicles of heritage and sentiment.
As part of its modernization initiative, Indian Railways has also been focusing on revamping stations, introducing Vande Bharat Express trains, and digitizing passenger services. The branding of trains based on religious or regional identity is being seen as a soft-power push in this larger transformation journey.
While no formal announcement has been made on whether additional services will follow the same renaming pattern, railway insiders suggest that more such changes could be underway, especially for trains operating on circuits connected to pilgrimage tourism and heritage towns.
Passengers are advised to check the Indian Railways portal or official IRCTC app for the latest updates regarding the ‘Galtadham Puja Superfast Express’, especially those planning travel on the Ajmer-Jammu sector.
As this shift comes into effect, stakeholders await to see if the name change brings increased visibility and enhanced spiritual tourism along the route. For now, travelers on train number 12413/12414 can expect the same services, under a new identity that celebrates cultural reverence and religious journeying.
