Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod: A Ride Through ‘God’s Own Country’
Arguably one of the most beautiful train journeys in the region, the Vande Bharat Express connecting Kerala’s capital, Thiruvananthapuram, to Kasaragod at its northern tip offers an unparalleled visual treat. The route (via train numbers 20633/20634 and 20631/20632)
takes you on an eight-hour tour through the heart of 'God's Own Country'. From your large panoramic window, you'll witness a constantly changing canvas of lush green paddy fields, dense coconut groves, and serene backwaters. The train crosses several bridges, offering fleeting but magnificent views of tranquil canals and lagoons, especially around Alappuzha and the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary. As one of the most popular and high-occupancy Vande Bharat services, it's a testament to the route's stunning scenery and essential connectivity, linking major towns like Kollam, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode.
Chennai to Mysuru: Heritage, Hills, and Green Plains
Connecting the bustling metropolis of Chennai with the royal city of Mysuru, this was South India's first Vande Bharat service and remains a favourite among travellers. The journey of about six and a half hours showcases the diverse topography of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. After leaving Chennai, the train slices through the plains dotted with temple towns before making its way towards the tech hub of Bengaluru. The stretch between Bengaluru and Mysuru is particularly rewarding, especially during the monsoon season. The landscape transforms into a vibrant green carpet of sugarcane fields, paddy farms, and coconut groves, particularly around the town of Mandya. It’s a journey that seamlessly blends urban cityscapes with rustic countryside charm, all while connecting three of the South’s most significant cities.
Bengaluru to Coimbatore: Through the Eastern Ghats
For those who love mountainous landscapes, the Vande Bharat Express from Bengaluru to Coimbatore (train numbers 20641/20642) is a must-try. This six-hour journey offers a front-row seat to the rugged beauty of the Eastern Ghats. After departing Bengaluru and crossing into Tamil Nadu via Hosur, the scenery begins to change dramatically. The highlight for many nature lovers begins after Dharmapuri, where the train navigates the Toppur Ghats. The route features rocky outcrops, dense vegetation, and sweeping views of the valleys. As the train descends from the Deccan Plateau towards the plains of Coimbatore, you might even catch a distant silhouette of the Nilgiri mountains, especially around sunset, making for a spectacular visual.
Secunderabad to Tirupati: Across the Deccan Landscape
Connecting the twin cities of Hyderabad-Secunderabad with the holy temple town of Tirupati, this Vande Bharat service (train numbers 20701/20702) offers a different kind of scenic beauty. Over its eight-hour journey, the train traverses the vast and varied landscapes of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The route passes through the plains of Nalgonda and Guntur before heading towards the coastal regions near Ongole and Nellore. While not defined by dramatic mountains or backwaters, this journey provides a captivating look at the agricultural heartland of the Deccan, with its sprawling farmlands and unique rock formations. It’s an efficient way to travel to one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites while enjoying the comfort and speed of the Vande Bharat.
