Why Special Trains Are Running
To accommodate the significant increase in passenger traffic during the Puja, Diwali, and Chhath festival season, both Central and Western Railways have introduced hundreds of special train services. These trains connect Mumbai with major destinations
across the country, aiming to provide more travel options and ease the burden on regularly scheduled services that get booked out months in advance. These services typically run from October through November 2026.
Key Routes by Central Railway
Central Railway is operating a substantial number of services from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), and other key stations in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Notable services include daily trains to Gorakhpur, weekly AC specials to Chennai and Bengaluru, and bi-weekly trains to Latur.
Mumbai to Gorakhpur (Train 01079): A daily service departing CSMT at 10:30 PM from October 16 to November 16.
Mumbai to Bengaluru (Train 01013): A weekly AC special departing CSMT at 12:35 AM on Saturdays from October 10 to November 21.
Mumbai to Chennai (Train 01015): A weekly AC special departing CSMT at 12:35 AM on Wednesdays between October 14 and November 18.
Mumbai to Latur (Train 01105): A bi-weekly service leaving CSMT at 12:35 AM on Tuesdays and Thursdays from October 13 to November 24.
Mumbai to Thiruvananthapuram (Train 01463): A weekly service from LTT every Thursday from October 15 to November 19, departing at 4:00 PM.
Mumbai to Madgaon (Train 01179): A weekly special from LTT running on Fridays during October and November, with timings varying based on monsoon and regular schedules.
Services from Western Railway
Western Railway has also announced special services to handle the festive rush, primarily focusing on routes towards North India. These trains will connect Mumbai Central and Bandra Terminus with destinations in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Additionally, operations for some existing special trains, like the Dadar to Bhusaval weekly service (Train 09049), have been extended until late November 2026 to provide further options for travellers. Passengers are advised to check the IRCTC portal for specific train numbers and schedules announced by Western Railway, as these are often released in batches.
Answering Your Booking Questions
Booking a seat on these special trains can be different from regular train travel. Here are answers to common questions:
How do I book?
Tickets for these special trains can only be booked online through the IRCTC website or its official mobile app. Some services may also allow booking at computerised Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters at stations.
When do bookings open?
Booking dates vary for each special train. For many of the 2026 festival specials, bookings opened on September 27th and 28th. Unlike regular trains with a fixed 120-day window, the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) for special trains is much shorter, often ranging from 10 to 30 days.
What are 'special charges'?
Special trains operate with a dynamic fare system, and tickets are sold at a premium. These 'special charges' mean the base fare is typically 10% to 30% higher than on a regular mail or express train for the same route. No concessions (like senior citizen discounts) are applicable on these trains.
What about Tatkal or Waitlisted Tickets?
Most special trains do not have a Tatkal quota. Only confirmed tickets are usually issued. If your ticket is on the waiting list after the chart is prepared, it will be automatically cancelled, and a full refund will be processed.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Given the high demand, it's crucial to plan ahead. Book your tickets as soon as reservations open, as seats fill up very quickly. Always double-check the train's schedule, including departure and arrival times, on the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) portal before leaving for the station, as timings for special services can sometimes be adjusted. Be aware that amenities like linen and blankets may not be provided, so it is often advisable to carry your own. Finally, ensure you are only using the official IRCTC platform for bookings to avoid any issues.
