Planning a fast, comfortable rail trip between Bangalore and Madurai? The Vande Bharat Express is one of the best options now in Southern India. This premium semi-high-speed day train cuts travel time dramatically and brings modern amenities to your journey.
Below is a verified, traveler-first guide you can use for booking, planning, and decision-making. All data is based on the latest Indian Railways schedules (as of early 2026); always cross-check live details on IRCTC before booking or boarding.
Overview of the Route
The Bangalore–Madurai Vande Bharat Express is a premium day train connecting Karnataka’s tech hub with Tamil Nadu’s cultural heart. It slashes travel time compared with older express trains, making it ideal for business travellers, families, and tourists exploring Madurai’s temples.
Whether you’re heading to the Meenakshi Temple, planning a weekend in Tamil Nadu, or returning after meetings in Bangalore, this Vande Bharat service is now one of the quickest train options available.
- Distance: ~573–586 km between Bengaluru Cantt (BNC) and Madurai Jn (MDU).
- Journey Duration: Roughly 8 hr 10 min – 8 hr 15 min in one direction.
- Why Popular: Fast, comfortable, modern seating and amenities. Runs day-time, perfect for travellers who want to avoid overnight trains.
Bangalore to Madurai (and Return) – Timings
The Vande Bharat runs six days a week (Tuesday off). Below are the core departure/arrival details that you’ll see when booking on IRCTC/railway inquiry.
| Direction | Train No. | Departure Station & Time | Arrival Station & Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore → Madurai | 20672 | Bengaluru Cantt at 13:30 | Madurai Jn at 21:40 |
| Madurai → Bangalore | 20671 | Madurai Jn at 05:15 | Bengaluru Cantt at 13:00 |
Detailed Time Table (Station-Wise)
Here’s what the current schedule looks like (approximate and subject to official update).
| Stop No. | Station | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bengaluru Cantt (BNC) | — | 13:30 |
| 2 | Krishnarajapuram (KJM) | 13:43 | 13:45 |
| 3 | Salem Junction (SA) | 16:42 | 16:45 |
| 4 | Namakkal (NMKL) | 17:23 | 17:25 |
| 5 | Karur Junction (KRR) | 17:48 | 17:50 |
| 6 | Tiruchchirappalli Jn (TPJ) | 19:20 | 19:25 |
| 7 | Dindigul Junction (DG) | 20:28 | 20:30 |
| 8 | Madurai Junction (MDU) | 21:40 | — |
🟡 Key summary:
- Departure Station: Bengaluru Cantt (BNC)
- Arrival Station: Madurai Jn (MDU)
- Approx Journey Duration: ~8 hr 10 min
- Ideal Option: Day travel for business, sightseeing, family trips
Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Ticket Price
Vande Bharat is a premium service — faster and more comfortable, but priced accordingly.
| Class | Quota Type | Fare (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|
| AC Chair Car (CC) | General | ₹1,765–₹1,965 |
| AC Chair Car (CC) | Tatkal | ₹1,965–₹2,165 |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | General | ₹3,080–₹3,480 |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | Tatkal | ₹3,480–₹3,780 |
Approximate fares as per IRCTC — final fare depends on date, demand, and dynamic pricing at booking.
Important Notes:
- Fares may vary based on travel date/season.
- Tatkal opens one day before travel at specified IRCTC time.
- Some fares may include catering charges where applicable.
What Your Ticket Includes
- Seating: Reclining cushioned seats, AC.
- Comfort: Large windows, onboard announcements.
- Catering: E-catering available (book via IRCTC), sometimes included.
Major Stops – Quick Guide
- Bengaluru Cantt: Starting point for IT/business travellers.
- Krishnarajapuram: First suburban stop.
- Salem & Namakkal: Key Tamil Nadu junctions — city access.
- Karur: Industrial hub with good connectivity.
- Tiruchchirappalli: Major city, time for refreshments at longer halt.
- Dindigul: Gateway to Madurai region.
- Madurai Jn: Final tourist/cultural destination.
How to Book Tickets
Online (IRCTC)
- Login to IRCTC app/website.
- Enter Bengaluru Cantt (BNC) ↔ Madurai Jn (MDU).
- Select travel date.
- Choose seat (CC/EC).
- Pay and save PNR.
Tatkal Booking
- Opens at designated time one day before departure.
- Best for last-minute travel but fills up quickly.
Assisted Booking
Travel agents or IRCTC agents can help if you face booking issues.
Travel Tips
- Carry ID as per IRCTC rules.
- Arrive station 15–20 min early.
- Check platform numbers on arrival.
- Book meals via e-catering before boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express (Train 20672) departs Bengaluru Cantt at 13:30 hrs and arrives Madurai Junction at ~21:40 hrs, covering the roughly 573 km route in about 8 h 10 m on scheduled service days.
he Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express runs six days a week — Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday — with Tuesday as its weekly off day under the current Indian Railways timetable.
Major halts for the Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express include Krishnarajapuram, Salem Junction, Namakkal, Karur Junction, Tiruchchirappalli & Dindigul Junction before reaching Madurai Junction.
The Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express completes the trip in approximately 8 hours 10 minutes, providing one of the fastest premium daytime rail connections between Bengaluru and Madurai.
The Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express travels around 573 km, efficiently linking Bengaluru (via Cantt) with Madurai Junction under Indian Railways’ semi-high-speed service.
The Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express offers AC Chair Car (CC) and AC Executive Chair Car (EC) seating with airline-style comfort, onboard Wi-Fi/infotainment, power outlets at seats and large windows.
Typical one-way fares on the Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express are roughly ₹1,755 for AC Chair Car (CC) and ₹3,070 for AC Executive Chair Car (EC) inclusive of standard service and catering charges.
Yes, the Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express generally has Tatkal quota available via IRCTC on most running days, allowing late bookings subject to seat availability and applicable Tatkal charges.
Yes, onboard catering and e-catering options are available on the Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express, with meals and refreshments served during the journey as part of Indian Railways service.
Yes, the Bangalore to Madurai Vande Bharat Express includes complimentary onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets at each seat and infotainment systems, providing modern travel convenience throughout the trip.
Final Verdict
The Vande Bharat Express from Mumbai to Goa is an excellent travel option
for passengers who value time, comfort, and reliability. With modern facilities,
shorter travel time, and premium service, it stands out as one of the best trains
on this busy tourist route.
Expert Advice: Book early for weekends and peak seasons, and always
check live availability before finalizing travel plans.
Final Verdict
If you need speed + comfort + reliability between Bangalore and Madurai, the Vande Bharat Express is one of the top choices available today. It’s best suited for day travellers, business trips, and quick sightseeing journeys.
🔎 Pro Tip: Book EARLY via IRCTC and always confirm live schedule before you travel — Indian Railways updates timings and halts occasionally.
I’m Rohit Kumar Sonkar, a senior travel writer and Indian Railways expert with 6+ years of hands-on experience in train route analysis, ticket fares, schedules, and IRCTC booking systems. I specialize in premium and scenic rail services such as the Vande Bharat Express, Vistadome Coach, and Tejas Express, and I focus on creating accurate, traveler-friendly content that helps people plan smooth and hassle-free train journeys across India.