Some train journeys in India are more than just travel. They are windows to the country’s landscapes. For travellers who enjoy long journeys, some routes are filled with scenery so breathtaking that every
hour on board becomes memorable. Among these is the Mangala Lakshadweep Express.
Covering over 3,000 km in roughly 49 hours, the Mangala Lakshadweep Express is one of the longest-running daily superfast trains in India. It connects New Delhi (Hazrat Nizamuddin) with Ernakulam Junction (Kochi) and also serves as a vital link for passengers heading to the Lakshadweep Islands via Kochi and the Malabar region of Kerala. Along its route, it passes through dense forests, the Western Ghats, the Konkan coastline and the palm-lined Kerala backwaters.
What Is The History And Significance Of Mangala Lakshadweep Express?
Origin: The train was introduced on January 26, 1973, as the Jayanti Janata Express and ran between Mangalore (now Mangaluru) in Karnataka and Delhi.
Renaming: It was later renamed as the Mangala Express after the deity Mangaladevi of Mangalore. It eventually extended to Ernakulam to support tourism to the Lakshadweep Islands.
Daily Operation: The train runs every day and stops at over 45 stations, including Mangaluru, Madgaon (Goa), Ratnagiri, Panvel, Bhopal and Agra Cantt.
Modern Coaches: Since December 2021, the train operates with LHB coaches that provide improved safety, stability and passenger comfort.
What Scenic Views Does Mangala Lakshadweep Express Offer?
The train’s route through the Konkan Railway section is one of India’s most scenic:
Goa To Ratnagiri: Passengers can see dense forests, deep gorges and cascading waterfalls of the Western Ghats, particularly striking during the monsoon season.
Pomendi Viaduct: A high-altitude bridge near Ratnagiri provides dramatic panoramic views of valleys below.
Karwar Coast: The train passes along the Arabian Sea coastline and also through tunnels that cut into the Sahyadri mountains.
Malabar Coast: After Mangaluru, the train travels along Kerala’s lush backwaters, palm-lined beaches and river estuaries.
What Facilities And Comfort Available On Board?
Pantry Car & E-Catering: Offers freshly cooked vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Passengers can also order via IRCTC e-catering at multiple stations.
Cleanliness: Coaches are well-maintained with bedrolls, blankets, sheets, pillows and towels provided.
Connectivity: Charging points are available in all coaches for phones and laptops.
Safety: The train utilises modern LHB (Linke-Hofmann-Busch) coaches for improved safety and comfort.
What Is The Fare Structure And Travel Duration?
Distance And Duration: 3,073 km in approximately 48–50 hours (slightly longer in monsoon due to reduced speeds in the Konkan section).
Departure From Delhi: 5:35 AM daily.
Approximate fares (Delhi to Ernakulam)
Sleeper (SL): Rs 985
AC 3 Tier (3A): Rs 2,530
AC 2 Tier (2A): Rs 3,705
AC 3 Tier Economy (3E): Rs 2,445
How Can You Book Tickets for the Mangala Lakshadweep Express?
Choose your booking platform: Official IRCTC website or app, or trusted travel apps like Goibibo, ixigo, Paytm, RailYatri, or redBus.
Enter the train details: 12618 for Delhi to Ernakulam, 12617 for Ernakulam to Delhi, with the train name Mangala Lakshadweep Express.
Select your journey details: Departure and arrival stations, travel date and preferred class (1A, 2A, 3A, Sleeper or 3A Economy).
Check seat availability to see whether tickets are Available, RAC or Waitlisted.
Log in or register on the chosen platform, fill in passenger details and complete the payment process.
Receive booking confirmation along with a PNR number to track train status or check seat confirmation.
