If you’re planning a fast, comfortable, and premium train journey between Ernakulam (Cochin), Kerala and Bangalore (KSR Bengaluru), Karnataka, the Ernakulam–Bangalore Vande Bharat Express is now one of the best options available.
This guide combines verified Indian Railways data, practical booking tips, and traveller-first advice to help you plan your trip with confidence. Always double-check live details on IRCTC before booking.
Overview of the Route
This Vande Bharat Express connects Ernakulam Junction (ERS) with KSR Bengaluru City Junction (SBC) over roughly 620–630 km. The journey takes around 8 hours 40 minutes — significantly faster than traditional express trains.
The Ernakulam–Bangalore Vande Bharat Express is a new semi-high-speed train service that drastically cuts travel time between Kerala’s commercial capital and South India’s tech hub. It’s ideal for business travellers, holidaymakers, and frequent flyers looking for a reliable daytime journey with modern comfort.
Why it’s popular:
- Shorter daytime travel window.
- Premium onboard comfort.
- Connects key cities in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
Ernakulam ↔ Bangalore Vande Bharat Timings
Here’s the latest timetable based on Indian Railways:
| Direction | Train No. | Departure Station & Time | Arrival Station & Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ernakulam → Bangalore | 26652 | Ernakulam Jn (ERS) – 14:20 | KSR Bengaluru City (SBC) – 23:00 |
| Bangalore → Ernakulam | 26651 | KSR Bengaluru City (SBC) – 05:10 | Ernakulam Jn (ERS) – 13:50 |
Vande Bharat Ernakulam–Bangalore Detailed Time Table
Here’s a practical station-wise breakdown for planning:
| Stop No. | Station | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ernakulam Junction (ERS) | — | 14:20 |
| 2 | Thrissur (TCR) | 15:17 | 15:20 |
| 3 | Palakkad Junction (PGT) | 16:35 | 16:37 |
| 4 | Coimbatore Junction (CBE) | 17:20 | 17:23 |
| 5 | Tiruppur (TUP) | 18:03 | 18:05 |
| 6 | Erode Junction (ED) | 18:45 | 18:50 |
| 7 | Salem Junction (SA) | 19:18 | 19:20 |
| 8 | Krishnarajapuram (KJM) | 22:23 | 22:25 |
| 9 | KSR Bengaluru City (SBC) | — | 23:00 |
Quick summary:
- Departure: Ernakulam Jn at 14:20
- Arrival: KSR Bengaluru City at 23:00
- Approx. journey: ~8 hrs 40 mins
- Ideal for: Day travellers, professionals, tourists
Vande Bharat Express Ticket Price
Vande Bharat is a premium daytime service, so fares are higher than ordinary trains but include added comfort and often meals.
| Class | Quota Type | Fare (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|
| AC Chair Car (CC) | General | ₹1,339 – ₹1,639 (without/with food) |
| AC Chair Car (CC) | Tatkal | Varies on IRCTC |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | General | ₹3,003 – ₹3,038 (with food) |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | Tatkal | Varies on IRCTC |
Important Notes
- Fare may vary with meals opted, GST and reservation charges.
- Tatkal quota opens typically at 10:00 AM a day before departure (check IRCTC).
- Meals may be optional — choose “I don’t want food” if you prefer.
- Final fare is shown on IRCTC before payment.
What Is Included in the Ticket
When you travel on Vande Bharat from Ernakulam to Bangalore:
- Reserved seat in AC Chair Car or Executive class.
- Air-conditioning, comfortable ergonomic seats.
- Onboard catering option.
- Modern amenities: Wi-Fi, bio-vacuum toilets, infotainment screens, reading lights.
Stations & Major Stoppages Explained
Here are the key stops and why they matter:
- Thrissur: Major city in central Kerala.
- Palakkad: Gateway to Tamil Nadu.
- Coimbatore: Industrial and textile hub.
- Tiruppur & Erode: Important commercial centres.
- Salem: Large city with strong rail connectivity.
- Krishnarajapuram: Suburban Bengaluru stop before destination.
How to Book Tickets
Online Booking via IRCTC
- Open the IRCTC Rail Connect app or website.
- Enter Ernakulam Jn → KSR Bengaluru City and date.
- Choose 26652 Vande Bharat Express.
- Pick seat (CC or EC) and quota (General or Tatkal).
- Add passenger details and pay.
- Save ticket (PDF / app).
Tatkal Booking Option
- Activated at 10:00 AM — high demand, so be quick.
- Use fast internet and autofill passenger details.
Assisted Booking Support
- IRCTC counters at major stations can help with bookings.
- Travel agents also assist (charges may apply).
Why Choose Vande Bharat on This Route?
- Speed and comfort: Faster than conventional trains.
- Modern amenities: Premium travel experience.
- Day travel: Makes the most of daylight hours.
- Limited stops: Saves time.
Travel Tips
- Reach station 20–30 min early.
- Carry valid ID (Aadhaar / passport).
- Select catering preferences early.
- Keep IRCTC app updated for alerts.
FAQs
The Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express (Train 26652) departs Ernakulam Junction at 14:20 hrs and arrives KSR Bengaluru at 23:00 hrs, covering the route in about 8 h 40 m on scheduled service days.
The Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express runs six days a week — all days except Wednesday under the official Indian Railways timetable.
Major halts include Thrissur, Palakkad, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem and Krishnarajapuram before reaching KSR Bengaluru from Ernakulam Junction.
The Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express completes its trip in approximately 8 hours 40 minutes, significantly faster than conventional trains on this corridor.
The Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express travels about 580–620 km, depending on routing via Salem and Coimbatore, effectively linking Kerala with Karnataka’s tech hub.
The Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express offers AC Chair Car (CC) and AC Executive Chair Car (EC) with airline-style seating, onboard Wi-Fi, infotainment, power outlets and modern amenities.
Typical one-way fares from Ernakulam Junction to KSR Bengaluru are around ₹1,630 for AC Chair Car (CC) and ₹2,995 for AC Executive Chair Car (EC) including catering as per current Indian Railways pricing.
Yes, the Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express generally has Tatkal quota available via IRCTC on its running days, subject to seat availability and standard Tatkal charges (Indian Railways practice).
Yes, onboard catering is available on the Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express, with meals and refreshments served during the journey; passengers may also opt out of food while booking.
Yes, the Ernakulam to Bangalore Vande Bharat Express features complimentary Wi-Fi, onboard infotainment systems and power outlets at each seat, providing modern travel convenience.
Final Verdict
The Ernakulam–Bangalore Vande Bharat Express is now one of the most efficient ways to travel between these two major cities. It balances comfort, speed, and convenience for business and leisure travellers alike. For the best experience, book early on IRCTC, choose seating wisely, and double-check timings before departure.
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.