A Boost for Tourism and Business
The introduction of the Vande Bharat service between Surat and Udaipur is a significant upgrade for connectivity between South Gujarat and Southern Rajasthan. Surat, known as the diamond and textile capital, now has a direct, high-speed link to Udaipur,
a global tourist destination. This new train is expected to provide a major impetus for tourism, trade, and social ties between the two regions. Previously, the journey by road could take eight to nine hours, but this service cuts that time considerably. The service is Surat's first originating Vande Bharat Express, a point of excitement for residents who frequently travel to Udaipur for holidays and destination weddings. The move essentially extends the premium connectivity that was previously available only up to Asarva (Ahmedabad), now bringing Surat into the fold.
Schedule and Timings
The train, numbered 26903/26904, runs six days a week and will not operate on Tuesdays. The schedule is designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers. From Surat, train 26903 departs at 6:10 AM and is scheduled to arrive in Udaipur City at 1:40 PM the same day. For the return journey, train 26904 will depart from Udaipur City at 3:35 PM and reach Surat at 11:00 PM. This completes the approximately 690-kilometre journey in about seven hours and 30 minutes, offering a much quicker alternative to existing travel options.
Route and Key Halts
The train makes nine commercial stops between Surat and Udaipur, connecting several important towns and cities along the way. After departing from Surat, the key halts in Gujarat include Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Maninagar, and Asarva. Upon entering Rajasthan, the train stops at Himmatnagar, Shamlaji Road, Dungarpur, and Zawar before its final destination of Udaipur City. This route provides a crucial direct link for passengers from various parts of both states. The train's primary maintenance will be handled in Surat, with watering facilities available at Vadodara and Asarva stations.
Onboard Experience and Features
Like other Vande Bharat trains, the Surat-Udaipur service offers a significant upgrade in passenger comfort and amenities. The train consists of an eight-car formation with both AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car classes. Passengers can expect airline-style rotatable seats, large observation windows, and onboard Wi-Fi for connectivity. Each seat is equipped with an infotainment system, reading lights, and charging outlets. Onboard catering is also provided. The train is also equipped with the KAVACH anti-collision system, enhancing safety. These modern features are designed to make the seven-and-a-half-hour journey comfortable and convenient.
Fares, Booking, and Other Details
While final fares are subject to dynamic pricing, initial estimates suggest that a ticket for the AC Chair Car could cost between ₹1,400 and ₹1,800, while the Executive Chair Car may be priced between ₹2,600 and ₹3,200. These prices are based on the fare structures of similar Vande Bharat services. Tickets can be booked through the official IRCTC website and mobile app. It's important for passengers to note that with the introduction of this new service, the Indian Railways has discontinued the Udaipur City-Asarva Vande Bharat Express (train numbers 26963/26964), which was launched in February 2026. This new train effectively replaces and extends that route, providing a longer and more comprehensive connection.
