Passengers traveling between Bengaluru and Mumbai will soon have a faster travel option. Union Minister Prahlad Joshi announced that a new superfast train is expected to start operations by the end of June 2026. This new service aims to fulfill a long-standing demand for better connectivity between the two cities.
What are the route and travel time details?
The train will run between KSR Bengaluru and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai. It will follow a central Karnataka route with stops at Tumakuru, Davanagere, Haveri, Hubballi-Dharwad, and Belagavi. This new service will reduce the travel time from the current 20-24 hours to approximately 14-16 hours.
Will it be a Vande Bharat Sleeper train?
While the initial launch in June 2026 is for a superfast service, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved the introduction of a Vande Bharat Sleeper train on this route. This upgraded service is projected to begin by August 2026. The Vande Bharat Sleeper will feature 16 air-conditioned coaches and can travel at a top speed of 180 km/h.
What are the features of the Vande Bharat Sleeper?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coach Count | 16 Modern AC Coaches |
| Passenger Capacity | 823 Passengers |
| Travel Classes | First AC, AC 2-tier, and AC 3-tier |
| Max Speed | 180 km/h |
| Technology | Developed by BEML and ICF Chennai |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will the new Bengaluru-Mumbai train start?
The superfast train service is expected to launch by the end of June 2026, while the Vande Bharat Sleeper version is projected for August 2026.
How much will the travel time be reduced?
The travel time is expected to drop from the current 20-24 hours to approximately 14-16 hours.