A scenic train journey to Goa could soon become a more convenient option for travellers from Bengaluru. The new Bengaluru–Goa Vande Bharat Express is set to be flagged off today, November 13, by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi, adding another rail connection between Karnataka’s capital and the sunshine state. The route passes through the Western Ghats and coastal Karnataka, with stops at destinations such as Mangaluru, Udupi, Murdeshwar, Gokarna and Karwar.
While the inaugural run takes place today, regular passenger services will begin on November 15, 2026. The train will connect Yesvantpur Junction in Bengaluru with Madgaon in Goa, covering the distance in approximately 13 hours and 20 minutes.
For travellers who enjoy taking the scenic route, or want to explore more of Karnataka beyond its popular coastal stretches, this new service offers another way to plan a getaway. Here is everything you need to know before booking your journey.
Bengaluru–Goa Vande Bharat Express: When Is It Being Flagged Off?
The new Vande Bharat Express will be flagged off on Friday, November 13, 2026, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bengaluru. The inaugural service will connect Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT), Bengaluru, with Madgaon, with a separate inaugural special connecting Mangaluru and Bengaluru.
Regular commercial services will begin on November 15. These will operate between Yesvantpur Junction and Madgaon under train numbers 26655 and 26656. Travellers should keep this distinction in mind while checking schedules and booking tickets, as the inaugural specials and regular passenger services have different train numbers and departure stations.
Bengaluru–Goa Vande Bharat Express: Route And Stoppages
The regular service will run between Yesvantpur Junction and Madgaon, passing through the Western Ghats and the coastal belt of Karnataka. Along the way, it will stop at 12 stations: Shravanabelagola, Hassan, Sakleshpur, Subrahmanya Road, Kabakaputtur, Mangaluru Junction, Udupi, Kundapura, Mookambika Road Byndoor, Murdeshwar, Gokarna Road and Karwar.
For travellers, the route offers more than just a direct connection to Goa. It opens up convenient rail access to several destinations that are worth exploring on their own. From the greenery around Sakleshpur to the beaches of Gokarna and the temple towns of Udupi and Murdeshwar, passengers can plan shorter breaks or build a longer coastal Karnataka itinerary around the service.
Bengaluru–Goa Vande Bharat Express: Timings And Schedule
The Yesvantpur–Madgaon service, operating as Train No. 26655, will depart from Bengaluru at 7:35 am and reach Madgaon at 8:55 pm. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and 20 minutes.
The return service, Train No. 26656, will leave Madgaon at 8:20 am and arrive at Yesvantpur Junction at 9:15 pm, taking approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes.
Both services will run six days a week. The Yesvantpur–Madgaon train will not operate on Wednesdays, while the Madgaon–Yesvantpur service will remain unavailable on Thursdays.
Passengers boarding at intermediate stations should check the specific arrival and departure times for their chosen station before planning their travel. Since the train operates during the day, the journey also offers an opportunity to take in the changing landscapes along the route, particularly through the Western Ghats.
Bengaluru–Goa Vande Bharat Express: Ticket Prices
The new Vande Bharat Express will offer two seating options: AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car. For the full journey between Yesvantpur Junction and Madgaon, the reported fare is Rs 2,200 for AC Chair Car and Rs 3,865 for Executive Chair Car.
Those travelling to destinations along the route can book tickets for shorter journeys as well. The reported AC Chair Car fare from Yesvantpur is Rs 1,315 to Mangaluru Junction, Rs 1,510 to Udupi, Rs 1,720 to Murdeshwar and Rs 2,120 to Karwar. Executive Chair Car fares for these destinations are Rs 2,305, Rs 2,660, Rs 3,100 and Rs 3,720, respectively.
The final ticket price may include applicable taxes and booking charges. Passengers should check the fare displayed on IRCTC for their selected boarding and destination stations before making a reservation.
How To Book Tickets For The Bengaluru–Goa Vande Bharat Express
Planning to take the new Vande Bharat to Goa? Tickets can be booked online through the official IRCTC website or its mobile apps. Passengers can also make reservations at railway booking counters.
To book online, visit the IRCTC website and log in to your account. Enter your boarding station, destination and preferred date of travel, then select the AC Chair Car or Executive Chair Car option. Once the available trains appear, choose the Bengaluru–Madgaon Vande Bharat Express and check seat availability. Enter the passenger details, review the fare and complete the payment to confirm your reservation.
Bookings can also be made through the IRCTC Rail Connect and RailOne apps. If you prefer booking in person, visit a Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counter at a railway station.
Before confirming your ticket, double-check the train number, travel date, boarding station and destination. This is particularly important around the launch date, when the inaugural specials and regular services have different schedules.
Places To Explore Along The Bengaluru–Goa Vande Bharat Route
One of the biggest advantages of the new service is the number of destinations it connects along the way. If you have a few extra days, consider turning the journey into a coastal Karnataka holiday rather than making Goa your only stop.
Sakleshpur: Surrounded by coffee plantations, rolling hills and lush greenery, Sakleshpur is a lovely choice for a quiet break in the Western Ghats. Think plantation stays, scenic drives and nature trails, with plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy the landscape.
Mangaluru: A coastal city with a distinct food culture, Mangaluru is worth exploring for its beaches, temples and local cuisine. Make time for Tannirbhavi Beach and tuck into regional favourites such as neer dosa, kori rotti and Mangalorean fish curry.
Udupi: Known for the Sri Krishna Matha and its traditional vegetarian cuisine, Udupi makes for an interesting cultural and culinary stop. You can combine a temple visit with a trip to nearby Malpe Beach and a classic Udupi meal.
Murdeshwar: With its towering Shiva statue overlooking the Arabian Sea, Murdeshwar is one of Karnataka’s most recognisable coastal destinations. The temple complex, sea views and surrounding coastline make it a worthwhile stop along the route.
Gokarna: If a beach break is what you have in mind, Gokarna deserves a place on your itinerary. Om Beach, Kudle Beach and Half Moon Beach are among its best-known stretches of coastline, while the town’s Mahabaleshwar Temple offers a glimpse into its spiritual heritage.
Karwar: Close to the Goa border, Karwar is known for its quieter beaches and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Rabindranath Tagore Beach is a popular spot to spend time by the sea, while the region’s seafood and scenic coastline offer plenty of reasons to linger.
Remember to check the weekly operating days before booking. The Yesvantpur–Madgaon service does not run on Wednesdays, and the return service does not operate on Thursdays.
