Diwali 2025: Southern Railway Adds New Routes Between Chennai, Kerala, And Karnataka

With Diwali fast approaching and passenger numbers expected to swell, Southern Railway has announced a series of special train services to accommodate the seasonal surge in travel demand. These temporary additions are part of a broader initiative to ensure a smoother, more comfortable journey for those heading home to celebrate the festival with loved ones.

Targeting key routes across southern India, the Diwali special trains will enhance connectivity between Chennai and various cities in Kerala, as well as major hubs like Bengaluru and Mangalore. The initiative reflects Southern Railway’s commitment to improving the festive travel experience by reducing congestion and providing timely travel options during the holiday season.

To accommodate increased travel demand during the festive season, Southern Railway has introduced special trains between Chennai Egmore and Thiruvananthapuram North. The special service from Thiruvananthapuram North is scheduled to depart at 5:10 PM on October 21 and will arrive at Chennai Egmore by 11 AM the following day. In the return direction, Train No. 06107 will leave Chennai Egmore at 1:25 PM on October 22, reaching Thiruvananthapuram North at 8 AM on October 23.

Expanded Routes

Train No. 06108 will run from Thiruvananthapuram to Chennai, while Train No. 06107 will operate in the reverse direction. Running on select festive dates, both trains will stop at important transit points, including Varkala, Kollam, Kayamkulam, Ernakulam Town, Thrissur, and Palakkad. The services are expected to ease pressure on regular routes and provide passengers with more convenient travel options across the region.

Southern Railway will also operate special services along several high-demand routes, including the Thiruvananthapuram North–Chennai Egmore corridor. Train Nos. 06108 and 06107 will run between the two cities, offering a crucial travel option for passengers heading from Kerala to Chennai and back during Diwali.

Further strengthening regional links, two additional special trains will run between SMVT Bengaluru and Kollam, catering to the heavy traffic between Karnataka and Kerala. Another dedicated service will operate between Mangaluru Central and Chennai Central, routed via Shoranur and Palakkad, providing much-needed relief for passengers in these areas.

The Coaches

In anticipation of the festive rush, each Diwali special train will feature a 20-coach configuration, comprising 16 AC Three Tier coaches, two Sleeper Class coaches, and two luggage-cum-brake vans. This setup caters to both reserved travellers and those seeking limited unreserved options, aiming to ensure a comfortable journey for all. With multiple stops at key junctions, the route offers more than just convenience—it gives passengers a chance to take in the varied scenery and cultural highlights of South India, turning travel into a more enriching experience.

Advance bookings for both Diwali special trains open at 8 AM on Sunday, October 12. If you’re planning to travel during the festive season, make sure to book your tickets early to guarantee your seat and avoid the last-minute rush. Don’t miss out on a smooth and comfortable journey home this Diwali!

FAQs

When do advance bookings for the Diwali special trains start?
Advance reservations open at 8 AM on October 12, 2025 for all Diwali special train services.

Which routes are covered under the Diwali special trains by Southern Railway?
The special trains will operate on key routes including Chennai Egmore–Thiruvananthapuram North, SMVT Bengaluru–Kollam, and Mangaluru Central–Chennai Central, with halts at major stations across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

What are the coach types available on these special trains?
Each train will include 16 AC Three Tier coaches, 2 Sleeper Class coaches, and 2 luggage-cum-brake vans, offering both reserved and limited unreserved options.

What are the travel dates for the Chennai–Thiruvananthapuram Diwali special train?
Train No. 06108 departs Thiruvananthapuram North at 5:10 PM on October 21 and reaches Chennai Egmore at 11 AM on October 22.
The return train, No. 06107, leaves Chennai Egmore at 1:25 PM on October 22, arriving at Thiruvananthapuram North by 8 AM on October 23.

How can I book tickets for the Diwali special trains?
Tickets can be booked online via the IRCTC website or app, and at authorised railway reservation counters