The route from Mumbai to Goa is full of scenic vistas, from rain-drenched mountains to the views of the coastline. But did you know that there is a train between the two regions that’s known as the ‘Food
Queen of Konkan Railways’ because of the delicious cuisine it offers? The Mandovi Express, which has been bridging the distance between Madgaon in South Goa and the busy city of Mumbai for years, is famous for its scenic route and catering services. A travel vlogger’s video has once again put the spotlight on the train.
The train has been serving Goa and Mumbai residents for years now, offering them inter-state connectivity and near-luxurious travel. Over the long stretch, travellers can experience clean sleeper class seats, a good overnight stay in the AC coaches and healthy food catering services.
Mandovi Express: Features
The Mandovi Express, or train No.10104 of the Indian Railways, operates between the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai and the Madgaon Junction in Goa. The Express derives its name from the Mandovi river.
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The Mandovi Express has often stood out for its excellent catering services. Due to this it is also called the ‘Food Queen of Konkan Railways.’ Travellers can expect a range of offerings available to be purchased for breakfast, brunch and dinner on board.
The Mandovi Express or the Konkan Train replaced the previously running Vasco-Miraj MG train. The Vasco-Miraj MG train was diverted to the Madgaon to Mumbai route for enhanced connectivity and rebranded as the Mandovi Express by former India Railways Minister Nitish Kumar in 1999. The train made its first journey on June 8, 1999, nearly 27 years ago.
Mandovi Express: Route, Timings And Ticket Price
The Mandovi Express covers a distance of nearly 581 km in almost 12 hours and 30 minutes, stopping over at 20 stations along the way. The route links Dadar Central, Thane, Panvel Junction, Mangaon, Khed, Chiplun, Sangameshwar Road, Ratnagiri, Adavali, Rajapur Road, Vaibhavwadi Road, Kankavali, Sindhudurg, Kudal, Sawantwadi Road, Pernem, Thivim and Karmali with each other, eventually taking travellers to Madgaon Junction.
Travellers can make a range of bookings depending on ticket availability, including in Sleeper, AC First Class, AC 2-Tier and AC 3-Tier for a comfortable experience. The Mandovi Express starts around 9:15 AM from Madgaon and arrives in Mumbai by 9:45 PM.
The ticket price ranges from Rs 390 for a Sleeper berth to Rs 2,610 for an AC First Class seat.
