The journey between Bengaluru and Goa is set to become faster and more scenic. The Indian Railways has approved a new Vande Bharat Express, promising to cut the travel time to just over 13 hours and enhance connectivity for travellers.
Introducing the New Vande Bharat Service
The Railway Board
has officially sanctioned a new Vande Bharat Express train connecting Yesvantpur in Bengaluru to Madgaon in Goa. This modern, semi-high-speed train service is poised to significantly upgrade the travel experience between the tech hub and the popular coastal destination. The service will operate as a chair car, providing a comfortable daytime travel option for passengers. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance rail connectivity, made possible by the recent electrification of the Bengaluru-Mangaluru railway line, which facilitates the operation of faster electric trains like the Vande Bharat.
Schedule and Timings
The new service will operate under train numbers 26655 and 26656. Train number 26655, travelling from Yesvantpur to Madgaon, is scheduled to depart at 7:35 AM and arrive at its destination at 8:55 PM, making the journey approximately 13 hours and 20 minutes long. This service will run six days a week, with no service on Wednesdays. On the return journey, train number 26656 will depart from Madgaon at 8:20 AM and reach Yesvantpur at 9:15 PM, with a slightly shorter travel time of 12 hours and 55 minutes. This leg of the journey will operate six days a week, excluding Thursdays.
Route and Scenic Stops
One of the most appealing aspects of this new service is its picturesque route. The train will travel via Mangaluru Junction, passing through the stunning Western Ghats. Passengers can look forward to breathtaking views of green hills and lush landscapes, particularly on the scenic stretch between Sakleshpur and Subrahmanya Road. The train will have 12 intermediate stops, connecting several key towns in Karnataka's interior and coastal regions before reaching Goa. Major stops include Hassan, Sakleshpur, Mangaluru Junction, Udupi, Murdeshwar, Gokarna Road, and Karwar, offering direct connectivity to these popular tourist and pilgrimage destinations.
A Game Changer for Travellers
Currently, other trains on similar routes can take anywhere from 14 to over 15 hours, such as the Yesvantpur Vasco Da Gama Express (17309), which takes roughly 13 hours and 40 minutes to 15.5 hours. The new Vande Bharat not only standardizes a faster travel time but also provides a premium, modern travel experience. This service creates a much needed direct daytime link, improving travel convenience for both tourists and those travelling for business or family reasons. Furthermore, the introduction of this train will lead to the discontinuation of the existing Madgaon Mangaluru Central Vande Bharat Express, with its rakes being repurposed for this new, longer route.
Booking and Launch Details
While the Railway Board has approved the service, an official launch date has not yet been finalized, though reports suggest it could begin operations in the third week of November 2026. Details regarding ticket fares and the commencement of booking are also expected to be announced closer to the launch date. Travellers eager to experience this new journey should keep an eye on official announcements from Indian Railways and the IRCTC portal. Maintenance facilities for the train are planned for Yesvantpur and Madgaon, with watering facilities at Mangaluru Junction, ensuring smooth operations.
