Indian Railways Launches New Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express

Indian Railways (IR) has given the green light for the launch of another Vande Bharat Express service in Kerala, marking the third train of its kind to operate in the state. The new service will fall under the operation and maintenance of the Southern Railway (SR) zone.

Vande Bharat Services In Kerala

Currently, two Vande Bharat Express trains are running in the state:

Train No. 20633/20634 Kasargod–Thiruvananthapuram–Kasargod Vande Bharat Express

Train No. 20631/20632 Mangalore–Thiruvananthapuram–Mangalore Vande Bharat Express

New Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express

The upcoming Ernakulam–KSR Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express will connect Kerala and Karnataka, enhancing inter-state travel convenience. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h, this semi-high-speed train promises a quicker, smoother, and more premium travel experience for passengers. With this addition, Indian Railways aims to further modernise Kerala’s rail network and improve travel efficiency across the southern region.

Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat: Route, Stops

The Ernakulam–KSR Bengaluru–Ernakulam Vande Bharat Express (Train Nos. 26651/26652) will offer a fast and comfortable connection between Kerala and Karnataka, running via Coimbatore and Palakkad. This service will operate six days a week, with Wednesday designated as the non-operational day. The train will comprise eight coaches in total — seven air-conditioned chair car coaches and one executive air-conditioned chair car coach, ensuring a premium and comfortable travel experience.

During its journey between Ernakulam and Bengaluru, the train will halt at seven stations: Thrissur, Palakkad, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, and Krishnarajapuram. The Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes, providing passengers with a swift, modern, and efficient travel option across the two southern states.

Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Timetable

The Bengaluru–Ernakulam Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 26651) will depart from KSR Bengaluru at 05:10 hrs and arrive at Ernakulam at 13:50 hrs, offering a convenient morning departure for travellers heading to Kerala. On the return leg, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 26652) will leave Ernakulam at 14:20 hrs and reach KSR Bengaluru at 23:00 hrs, providing a comfortable evening journey back to Karnataka.

FAQs

What is the new Vande Bharat route approved by Indian Railways?
The Ministry of Railways has approved a Vande Bharat Express between KSR Bengaluru and Ernakulam, operating via Coimbatore.

What are the train numbers?

• 26651 – KSR Bengaluru to Ernakulam

• 26652 – Ernakulam to KSR Bengaluru

How often does the train operate?
The service will run six days a week, with Wednesday as the non-operational day.

What are the departure and arrival timings?

• From Bengaluru (26651): Departs at 05:10 am., arrives Ernakulam at 1:50 pm.

• From Ernakulam (26652): Departs at 2:20 p.m., arrives Bengaluru at 11 pm.

Which stations does the train stop at?
The train will halt at Krishnarajapuram, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Coimbatore, Palakkad, and Thrissur in both directions.

What are the scheduled timings at major stops (Bengaluru–Ernakulam)?

• Krishnarajapuram: 5:25 am

• Salem: 8:15 am

• Erode: 9:05 am

• Tiruppur: 9:47 am

• Coimbatore: 10:35 am

• Palakkad: 11:30 am

• Thrissur: 12:30 pm

7. Will the return service have the same stops?
Yes, the Ernakulam–Bengaluru (26652) service will stop at the same seven stations in the reverse order.