When it comes to railway stations in India, few can match the scale, significance, and sheer energy of New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS). Located in the heart of India’s capital, this iconic transportation hub is a lifeline for millions of travelers, connecting the city to every corner of the country and beyond. Whether you’re a daily commuter searching for local train timings, a tourist seeking passenger facilities, or a long-distance traveler curious about train schedules and platform numbers, this comprehensive guide has you covered. As of April 5, 2025, NDLS remains one of the busiest and most trending topics among rail enthusiasts and travelers alike, with Google Trends highlighting queries like “New Delhi railway station platforms” and “train timings” dominating search charts. Let’s explore everything you need to know before stepping foot into this railway marvel.
A Brief History of New Delhi Railway Station
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a moment to appreciate the station’s rich history. New Delhi Railway Station, with its station code NDLS, officially opened in 1956, though its origins trace back to 1926 when the East Indian Railway Company laid plans for a single platform between Paharganj and Ajmeri Gate. Over the decades, it evolved from a modest setup into a sprawling complex with 16 platforms, reflecting the growing demands of India’s capital. By the 1970s, it had reached capacity, prompting expansions that brought it to seven platforms by the 1980s, ten by 1995, and finally 16 during a major redevelopment in 2010. Today, NDLS stands as a testament to India’s railway legacy, blending historical charm with modern upgrades.
The station’s strategic location—about 2 kilometers north of Connaught Place—makes it a central node in Delhi’s transport network. It’s not just a railway station; it’s a bustling ecosystem of travelers, employees, and services, handling over 400 unique trains daily and catering to more than 500,000 passengers. From luxury trains like the Vande Bharat Express to everyday local services, NDLS is a microcosm of India’s diversity on rails.
New Delhi Railway Station Platforms: How Many and What to Expect
One of the first questions travelers ask is, “How many platforms does New Delhi Railway Station have?” The answer is 16, split between two main entrances: Paharganj (Platform 1) and Ajmeri Gate (Platform 16). These platforms are numbered sequentially, with Platform 1 on the Paharganj side and Platform 16 on the Ajmeri Gate side, connected by three Foot Over Bridges (FOB1, FOB2, and FOB3). Each platform is equipped to handle a variety of trains, from short-haul local services to long-distance superfast expresses.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the platform layout:
- Platforms 1–8 (Paharganj Side): These are typically used for originating and terminating trains, including many long-distance services.
- Platforms 9–16 (Ajmeri Gate Side): These often handle passing trains and some terminating services, with Platform 16 being closest to the metro station and skywalk.
Each platform features at least one escalator, making it easier to navigate with luggage, though peak hours can still feel chaotic. The station’s quadruple electric-line tracks ensure smooth operations, but with 13 to 23 trains per platform daily, timing your arrival is key to avoiding the rush.
Number of Trains Running from New Delhi Railway Station
New Delhi Railway Station is a juggernaut in terms of train traffic. On average, it handles over 250 trains daily, with peaks reaching up to 275 trains on busy days. These include:
- 96 Originating Trains: Trains that begin their journey at NDLS.
- 99 Terminating Trains: Trains that end their journey here.
- 90 Halting Trains: Trains that stop briefly before continuing.
In total, the station serves over 400 unique trains, ranging from the prestigious Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express to everyday mail and express services. Luxury tourist trains like the Palace on Wheels, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, and Maharajas’ Express also call NDLS home, adding a touch of grandeur to the station’s roster.
Sample Long-Distance Train Timings
Here’s a table of some popular long-distance trains departing from NDLS, based on data from IndiaRailInfo and other railway sources as of April 2025:
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure Time | Destination | Platform (Tentative) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vande Bharat Express | 22436 | 06:00 AM | Varanasi | 8 |
| Rajdhani Express | 12302 | 04:50 PM | Kolkata | 3 |
| Shatabdi Express | 12002 | 06:00 AM | Bhopal | 1 |
| Duronto Express | 12264 | 11:00 PM | Pune | 5 |
| Maharajas’ Express | – | 09:00 AM | Jaipur (Seasonal) | 10 |
Note: Platform numbers and timings are subject to change. Always check the live status on IRCTC or station displays.
Local Trains from New Delhi Railway Station: Timings and Routes
For daily commuters, local trains (often EMU or MEMU services) are a lifeline, connecting NDLS to nearby suburbs and towns in the Delhi NCR region. These trains are part of the 43 EMU-Delhi Trains and 9 MEMU Trains that operate daily. While exact schedules vary, here’s a snapshot of some popular local train timings:
| Train Name/Number | Departure Time | Destination | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi-Panipat EMU | 05:30 AM | Panipat | Daily |
| NDLS-Ghaziabad MEMU | 07:15 AM | Ghaziabad | Daily |
| Delhi-Shahdara EMU | 08:00 AM | Shahdara | Hourly |
| NDLS-Rewari Passenger | 06:45 PM | Rewari | Daily |
Tip: Local trains don’t always get dedicated platforms, so check the departure boards or ask at the enquiry counter.
These services are affordable and frequent, with trains running every 15–60 minutes during peak hours. However, they can get crowded, so plan to arrive early if you’re carrying luggage.
Passenger Facilities at New Delhi Railway Station
NDLS is designed to cater to a massive influx of passengers, offering a range of passenger facilities to ensure comfort and convenience. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Waiting Rooms and Lounges
- General Waiting Rooms: Available on both Paharganj and Ajmeri Gate sides, free for ticket holders.
- Executive Lounges: Two premium lounges (one per side) offer air-conditioned seating, Wi-Fi, and refreshments for a fee (approx. ₹200–300 for 3 hours).
- Retiring Rooms: Dormitory and private rooms for overnight stays, bookable via IRCTC.
2. Food and Dining
- Food Court: A 24/7 service inaugurated in 2021, featuring domestic and international outlets like Domino’s, Haldiram’s, and more.
- Snack Stalls: Scattered across platforms, offering quick bites like samosas and tea.
- Base Kitchens: Serve meals for onboard train catering.
3. Connectivity
- Wi-Fi: Free for the first 30 minutes, then paid (introduced in 2014).
- Metro Access: Connected via a 242-meter skywalk to the New Delhi Metro Station (Yellow Line and Airport Express Line).
4. Accessibility
- Escalators: At least one per platform.
- Water Vending Machines: Affordable drinking water at multiple points.
- Porters: Around 1,450 licensed porters were active as of 2003, earning upwards of ₹6,500 monthly.
5. Miscellaneous
- Souvenir Shops: For last-minute gifts or mementos.
- Book and Magazine Stalls: Available near entrances.
- Energy-Saving Lighting: Implemented across the station for sustainability.
Station Services and Counters
NDLS offers a variety of station services and counters to streamline your travel experience:
1. Enquiry and Reservation Counters
- Enquiry Counters: Located on both sides—right of the Ajmeri Gate entrance and beside the reservation counter on Paharganj.
- Reservation Counter: On the Paharganj side, separate from the main station building, for booking and cancellations.
- International Tourist Bureau (ITB): Assists foreign travelers with bookings and information.
2. Ticketing Options
- Computerized Reservation System: Available at counters and online via IRCTC or apps like redRail.
- Prepaid Taxi/Auto Counters: On both sides for hassle-free transport.
3. Luggage Services
- Cloak Room: On the Paharganj side near Platform 1, ideal for storing heavy bags (charges apply).
- Railway Consumer Depot (RCD): For lost and found items.
4. Tourism and Assistance
- Delhi Tourism Office (DTO): Offers travel advice and city tours.
- Police Assistance: Security personnel and help desks are present throughout.
Employees at New Delhi Railway Station
The station’s operations rely on a vast workforce, though exact numbers fluctuate. As of 2003, NDLS employed around 1,450 licensed porters, and today, the total staff—including ticket clerks, security, cleaning crews, and administrative personnel—likely numbers in the thousands. The station falls under the Northern Railway Zone, with headquarters nearby, ensuring coordinated management. Mechanized cleaning is outsourced to contractors, while NGOs like Chintan and Safai Sena handle waste management, processing 3-4 tonnes of daily waste, including thousands of plastic bottles.
Other Important Facts About New Delhi Railway Station
Here are some additional nuggets of information that make NDLS unique:
- Cleanliness Rankings: In 2019, it ranked 165th out of 720 stations in India and 11th among 21 NSG-1 stations.
- Historical Milestones: It held the record for the world’s largest route relay interlocking system since 1999.
- Religious Sites: Home to the Lankeshwar Mahadev Temple (Platforms 6–7) and Masjid Ghareeb Shah (Platforms 2–3), alongside nearby Mughal-era landmarks like Ajmeri Gate.
- Tragic Incident: A stampede on February 15, 2025, claimed 18 lives during the Kumbh Mela rush, underscoring the need for crowd management.
- Future Plans: A public-private partnership aims to transform NDLS into a world-class station, with tentative plans outlined in 2020.
Tips for Navigating New Delhi Railway Station
- Arrive Early: With over 500,000 daily passengers, NDLS can be overwhelming. Aim to arrive at least an hour before departure.
- Check Platform Displays: Platforms are assigned dynamically, so rely on digital boards or station announcements.
- Beware of Crowds: Peak hours (7–10 AM and 5–8 PM) see heavy footfall, especially on local train platforms.
- Use the Metro: The skywalk to the New Delhi Metro Station is a game-changer for quick city access.
- Stay Vigilant: Pickpockets are a concern in crowded areas—keep your belongings secure.
FAQs About New Delhi Railway Station
Q1: How many platforms does New Delhi Railway Station have?
A: New Delhi Railway Station has 16 platforms, with entrances at Paharganj (Platform 1) and Ajmeri Gate (Platform 16).
Q2: How many trains run from NDLS daily?
A: On average, over 250 trains run daily, with peaks up to 275, including 96 originating, 99 terminating, and 90 halting trains.
Q3: What are the timings of local trains from NDLS?
A: Local trains like the Delhi-Panipat EMU (05:30 AM) and NDLS-Ghaziabad MEMU (07:15 AM) run frequently, often hourly during peak times. Check live schedules for accuracy.
Q4: What passenger facilities are available at NDLS?
A: Facilities include waiting rooms, executive lounges, a 24/7 food court, Wi-Fi, escalators, water vending machines, and more.
Q5: Where are the reservation counters located?
A: The main reservation counter is on the Paharganj side, outside the station building near Platform 1.
Q6: How many employees work at NDLS?
A: Exact numbers vary, but as of 2003, there were 1,450 porters, with total staff likely in the thousands today, including security and cleaning personnel.
Q7: Is there metro connectivity at NDLS?
A: Yes, the New Delhi Metro Station (Yellow Line and Airport Express Line) is linked via a 242-meter skywalk from the Ajmeri Gate side.
