Why This New Train Matters
To clear the anticipated extra rush of passengers during the upcoming Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath festivals, Indian Railways has introduced a vital new weekly special train. This service directly connects Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)
in Mumbai with the Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) in Bengaluru. Managed by Central Railway, this train is a temporary but crucial addition for travellers, providing more options during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. According to railway officials, the service will make seven trips in each direction between October and November 2026.
The Official Timetable
The service will operate under two numbers: 01013 from Mumbai to Bengaluru and 01014 for the return journey. Train number 01013 (CSMT Mumbai to SMVT Bengaluru) will depart from CSMT every Saturday at 12:35 AM, starting from October 10 and running until November 21. It is scheduled to reach SMVT Bengaluru at 11:55 PM on the same day, making the total journey time approximately 23 hours and 30 minutes. In the return direction, train number 01014 (SMVT Bengaluru to CSMT Mumbai) will leave Bengaluru every Sunday at 4:30 AM, from October 11 to November 22. It will arrive at CSMT in Mumbai at 4:05 AM the following day.
Route and Major Stoppages
The train is scheduled to halt at 24 stations between the two metropolises, offering connectivity to numerous towns and cities across Maharashtra and Karnataka. Key stops include Dadar, Thane, Kalyan, Lonavala, and Pune in Maharashtra. After entering Karnataka, the train will halt at significant stations such as Belagavi, Londa, Dharwad, SSS Hubballi, Davangere, and Tumakuru before reaching its final destination. This extensive list of stoppages makes the service accessible to a wider range of passengers beyond just the origin and destination cities.
Coach Composition and Onboard Experience
The special train will consist of 22 coaches, designed to cater to passengers seeking comfortable, air-conditioned travel. The rake includes two AC 2-Tier coaches and a large complement of 18 AC 3-Tier coaches. This composition highlights the focus on providing AC accommodation to meet passenger preferences on this long-distance route. Additionally, the train will have two Luggage-cum-Guard-cum-Generator Vans. As it is designated a 'special' train, fares are likely to be dynamically priced, and passengers should expect to pay a premium over regular express services on the same route.
How to Book Your Tickets
Bookings for these special train services are handled through the standard Indian Railways channels. Passengers can book their tickets via the IRCTC website and the official mobile app. Tickets will also be available at computerised reservation counters at major railway stations. Given that this is a festive special service with limited runs, demand is expected to be extremely high. Travellers are advised to book their tickets well in advance as soon as the booking window opens. The booking for these trains was announced to open around September 27 and 28, 2026.
