Overview:
This guide compiles the most useful post-Chhath travel updates from Muzaffarpur. It highlights special services toward Delhi via Kanpur, including a 2 November pair and an extension of the Muzaffarpur–Anand Vihar festival special until 30 November. You’ll also find a simple schedule table, booking steps, and common mistakes to avoid. Because festival specials often change timings, the article urges travellers to recheck IRCTC/NTES near departure. With backup route ideas and practical tips, you can beat the rush, secure seats, and travel with less stress.
After Chhath, getting tickets is hard. Trains fill fast. Good news: extra festival specials are being added from Muzaffarpur to ease the rush, including services toward Delhi via Kanpur and date extensions through November. This quick guide shows the key trains, dates, stops, and smart booking steps so you can plan a smoother return journey.
What it means
Railways are running additional “festival special” trains from Muzaffarpur after Chhath to handle peak crowds, notably towards Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal). Timings and numbers can vary, but confirmations include a Muzaffarpur–Anand Vihar special around 2 November via Kanpur, plus extensions of the Muzaffarpur–Anand Vihar festival special through 30 November.
Key trains & dates
Below are headline options relevant to Muzaffarpur after Chhath. Always recheck live status before booking.
Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal)
- A special Muzaffarpur → Anand Vihar service via Kanpur is slated around 2 November, with a matching return Anand Vihar → Muzaffarpur the same day. Planned Muzaffarpur departure ~07:55, Kanpur ~18:40/18:45, arrival Anand Vihar ~03:00 (next day). Return departs 17:30 from Anand Vihar, reaches Muzaffarpur ~22:15.
Extended festival special window
- The Muzaffarpur–Anand Vihar Festival Special (05283/05284) running period has been extended through 30 November, adding more post-Chhath availability.
Tip: Check IRCTC and NTES for the final charted timings and coach composition before travel. Peak-day retimings are common.
Quick schedule table
| Route | Train No. | Likely Dates (post-Chhath) | Key Halt(s) | Indicative Dep/Arr* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muzaffarpur → Anand Vihar (Delhi) | 02519 (spec.) | 2 Nov (outbound) | Kanpur Jn | Dep MFP 07:55 → Kanpur 18:40/18:45 → ANVT 03:00 |
| Anand Vihar (Delhi) → Muzaffarpur | 02520 (spec.) | 2 Nov (return) | Kanpur Jn | Dep ANVT 17:30 → Kanpur 22:45/22:50 → MFP 22:15 (next day) |
| Muzaffarpur ↔ Anand Vihar (Fest. Special) | 05283/05284 | Extended till 30 Nov | Major North India halts | Runs on notified days in Nov |
*Final timings may change on operational days. Verify on IRCTC/NTES.
How to book (step-by-step)
- Search smart: In IRCTC, filter by “Special/Festival” trains for MFP → ANVT.
- Use alternate quotas: Try Tatkal, Premium Tatkal, or “clone” specials if listed.
- Watch Kanpur/Gorakhpur legs: Split tickets (MFP→GKP → ANVT) can unlock seats.
- Check return first: Post-festival rush is heavy; secure ANVT→MFP early.
- Set alerts: Use waitlist notifier apps; many specials open in short windows.
- Board early: Stations get crowded; reach 45–60 minutes before departure.
Tools & resources
- IRCTC website/app for booking.
- NTES for live train status and platform.
- RailMadad / Twitter (X) handles of zones for quick help.
- Related reads on our site: Festival train booking tricks, Delhi–Bihar quick routes, Kanpur via-route hacks.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Relying on one train: Keep 2–3 backups with different dates.
- Ignoring return rush: Post-Chhath seats go first; book both ways.
- Not checking re-timings: Specials often shift by hours on the day.
- Skipping ID checks: Carry the same ID used in booking.
Example plan
You need to reach Delhi by 3 Nov. Book 02519 MFP→ANVT for 2 Nov. If full, try the extended 05283 window or split via Kanpur with a short layover. For the return, pin 02520 or the November 05284 dates that fit your schedule.
Key takeaways
- Extra Muzaffarpur–Delhi specials are planned right after Chhath to ease crowds.
- The festival special window runs through 30 November, adding more options.
- Always verify final timings on IRCTC/NTES; operational changes are common.
- Backup routes via Kanpur/Gorakhpur increase your odds of confirmation.
- Book returns early; post-festival demand spikes fast.
Did you know?
Indian Railways has notified thousands of special services nationwide to manage the post-Chhath return rush, along with extra coaches and crowd-management at key Bihar/UP hubs.
Conclusion
Post-Chhath travel from Muzaffarpur does not have to be stressful. Use the announced specials—especially towards Delhi—and the extended November window to secure seats. Check timings, keep backups, and book both ways early. Safe travels and happy returns!
FAQs
Will these specials run daily?
No. These are festival-time services on notified days only. Check IRCTC for the exact dates and seat class availability for your chosen day.
Are timings fixed for 02519/02520?
Timings are published but can change due to operations and crowd control. Reconfirm on NTES/IRCTC on the day of travel for the latest platform and schedule.
Is the Muzaffarpur–Anand Vihar festival special extended?
Yes. The 05283/05284 festival special’s run has been extended through 30 November, giving more November journey options.
How early should I reach the station?
Arrive 45–60 minutes early. Post-festival days see heavy crowds, extra checks, and occasional platform changes. Keep your ID and ticket handy.
Where can I track live changes?
Use the NTES app/website for live running status and platforms, and IRCTC for booking/cancellations. For major disruptions, check your zone’s official social media handles.
