Ultimate Fare Showdown: Tejas Express vs. Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Vande Bharat – Discover India’s First Private Train!

The New Delhi–Lucknow Tejas Express started its journey on October 4, 2019. This train connects the bustling national capital with Uttar Pradesh’s capital, making it a vital route in North India. Designed for speed, comfort, and punctuality, it aims to make travel enjoyable for passengers.

Just a month after launch, the IRCTC reported earnings of around ₹7.73 lakh, showing a strong demand for this service. However, the Tejas Express fares are higher compared to other premium trains like the Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Vande Bharat Express.

Here’s a quick look at the fare comparison for the New Delhi–Lucknow route:

• IRCTC Tejas Express: ₹1,679 (AC Chair Car), ₹2,457 (Executive Chair Car)
• Shatabdi Express: ₹1,255 (AC Chair Car), ₹1,955 (Executive Chair Car)
• Vande Bharat Express: ₹1,255 (AC Chair Car), ₹2,415 (Executive Chair Car)
• Rajdhani Express: ₹1,590 (3AC), ₹2,105 (2AC), ₹2,630 (1AC)

The Tejas Express stands out with its modern amenities and advanced technology. It features:

• Fully air-conditioned coaches
• Automatic doors
• Onboard infotainment and Wi-Fi
• CCTV surveillance for safety
• Personal reading lights and snack trays

While fares can change based on demand, the Vande Bharat Express offers fixed pricing, adding stability for travelers.

The Tejas Express is engineered for speed. According to the Ministry of Railways, it can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, although it typically runs at a maximum of 160 km/h due to current track limitations. Its coaches are crafted at the Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala and include advanced safety features like steel brake discs and an electro-pneumatic assist brake system.

This train has set a new standard in Indian rail travel, focusing on comfort, technology, and reliability. Many passengers feel the premium fare is justified by the high-quality experience it offers. In a recent online survey, about 75% of passengers rated their experience as satisfactory or excellent, reflecting the train’s positive reception among travelers.

Since it is India’s first private train, the Tejas Express is reshaping how people view train travel in India. As the rail network evolves, this train symbolizes a modern approach to commuting in a busy country.

Disclaimer: All information is based on the latest railway data and fare structures as of 2025. Prices and operational details may change by IRCTC and Indian Railways. For further details, you can visit the Indian Railways official site.

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