Travelling between Tirunelveli and Chennai has never been easier or faster than with the Vande Bharat Express. This premium semi-high-speed train is ideal if you want to cut down travel time drastically and enjoy a comfortable journey with modern amenities.
Whether you’re a frequent business traveller, a family going home, or a tourist planning the next leg of your trip, this guide covers everything you need to know before you book.
Overview of the Route
The Tirunelveli–Chennai Egmore Vande Bharat Express covers approximately 653 km, making it one of the fastest options on this busy Tamil Nadu corridor.
In under 8 hours, you go from the deep south of Tamil Nadu to the state capital — a journey that traditionally took much longer by conventional trains.
It’s popular with professionals, students, and families who value speed, punctuality, and a premium travel experience.
Vande Bharat Express Timings (Both Directions)
The Vande Bharat Express operates daily except Tuesday (maintenance day) — an important planning detail before booking.
| Direction | Train No. | Departure Station & Time | Arrival Station & Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tirunelveli → Chennai Egmore | 20666 | Tirunelveli Jn – 06:05 | Chennai Egmore – 13:55 |
| Chennai Egmore → Tirunelveli | 20665 | Chennai Egmore – 14:45 | Tirunelveli Jn – 22:30 |
Vande Bharat Tirunelveli–Chennai Detailed Time Table
This premium train has limited stops at major cities/towns to maintain its fast schedule. Below is the latest official timetable:
| Stop No. | Station Name | Arrival Time | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tirunelveli Junction (TEN) | — | 06:05 |
| 2 | Kovilpatti | 06:38 | 06:40 |
| 3 | Virudhunagar Junction | 07:18 | 07:20 |
| 4 | Madurai Junction | 07:55 | 08:00 |
| 5 | Dindigul Junction | 08:43 | 08:45 |
| 6 | Tiruchchirappalli Junction | 09:45 | 09:50 |
| 7 | Vriddhachalam Junction | 11:08 | 11:10 |
| 8 | Villupuram Junction | 11:48 | 11:50 |
| 9 | Tambaram | 13:18 | 13:20 |
| 10 | Chennai Egmore (MS) | 14:00 | — |
Arrival Station: Chennai Egmore
Approx. Journey Duration: 7 h 50 min
Ideal Travel Option: Business travellers, frequent flyers, tour groups, families wanting comfort
Vande Bharat Express Ticket Price
The Vande Bharat is a premium priced train; fares are higher than regular express services because of enhanced speed and onboard facilities.
| Class | Quota Type | Fare (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|
| AC Chair Car (CC) | General | ₹1,665–₹1,700 |
| AC Chair Car (CC) | Tatkal | Higher (varies by date & demand) |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | General | ₹3,055–₹3,100 |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | Tatkal | Higher (varies by date & demand) |
Important Notes
- Fares above are approximate as per IRCTC and can change. Always check live pricing before booking.
- Tatkal tickets open 1 day before journey date (check IRCTC for exact rules).
- Catering may be included or optional; check during booking.
- Final fare is displayed at checkout on IRCTC.
What Is Included in Ticket
- Comfortable AC Chair Car or Executive Chair Car seating.
- Onboard meals/snacks (may vary by train/period).
- Modern interior with charging points, luggage spaces, and large windows.
- Priority clearance on tracks (usually punctual).
Stations & Major Stoppages Explained
- Tirunelveli Junction – Major gateway of southern Tamil Nadu.
- Kovilpatti – Popular industrial town.
- Virudhunagar – Strategic halt for trade/market travellers.
- Madurai Junction – Major religious & cultural centre.
- Dindigul Junction – Key junction to north Tamil Nadu.
- Tiruchchirappalli Junction – Central Tamil Nadu hub.
- Vriddhachalam Junction – Connects central routes of state.
- Villupuram Junction – Important connecting point to Chennai.
- Tambaram – Suburban Chennai station before final halt.
- Chennai Egmore – Central city station in the capital.
How to Book Tickets
Online Booking via IRCTC
- Visit irctc.co.in or use the official IRCTC app.
- Enter Tirunelveli (TEN) → Chennai Egmore (MS).
- Select Train 20666/20665 and travel date.
- Choose your class (CC or EC).
- Pay securely and save the e-ticket.
Tatkal Booking Option
- If general quota shows no seats, use Tatkal.
- Available from 10 AM one day prior (subject to IRCTC updates).
- Faster fingers help — seats fill quickly.
Assisted Booking Support
- At station reservation counters.
- Through authorised railway agents.
- IRCTC customer care support.
Seat Availability & Booking Strategy
- Best days to book: Fridays, Sundays, long weekends fill fast.
- Advance booking: 120 days early gives best availability.
- Weeks around festivals sell out quickly on this premium train.
- Check IRCTC availability at peak times (open hours) for best choice.
Why Choose Vande Bharat on This Route?
- Fastest rail option between Tirunelveli and Chennai.
- Modern amenities over conventional trains.
- Limited high-priority stops ensure quick transit.
- Great alternative to flights for many passengers.
Travel Tips
- Arrive 25–30 min early at your boarding station.
- Keep a print/e-copy of your ticket ready.
- If travelling with luggage, note storage locations.
- Confirm meal service before departure (can vary).
FAQs – Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat
The Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express (Train 20666) departs from Tirunelveli Junction at 06:00 AM and arrives at Chennai Egmore around 02:00 PM, covering about 650 km in ~8 hours.
Indian Railways data shows the Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express takes approximately 8 hours for the 650 km journey with limited stops, making it one of the fastest daytime options between these cities.
This Vande Bharat on the Tirunelveli to Chennai route offers AC Chair Car (CC) and Executive Chair Car (EC) seating with reserved seats, air-conditioning, and modern onboard amenities.
Yes, the Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express has Tatkal quota for both AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car; Tatkal opens one day before departure at 10 AM as per IRCTC rules.
On the Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express, catering is generally included in the fare with vegetarian and non-veg options served during the journey unless you choose “no meal” while booking.
The Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express typically runs six days a week (off on Tuesdays) but passengers should always check IRCTC for current running days before booking.
The Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express makes around 9–10 stops at key junctions like Kovilpatti, Virudhunagar, Madurai, Dindigul, Tiruchirappalli, Villupuram, and Tambaram on its way to Chennai Egmore.
Approximate IRCTC fares for Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat are AC Chair Car ₹1,600–₹1,800 and Executive Chair Car ₹2,800–₹3,200 one-way; final fare is shown during IRCTC booking.
Yes, Indian Railways allows live status updates for the Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express via NTES app or IRCTC so you can track real-time running and platform details before departure.
For the Tirunelveli to Chennai Vande Bharat Express, book early (10–15 days ahead) for best availability, and try Tatkal exactly when it opens if general quota is full.
Final Verdict
The Tirunelveli–Chennai Vande Bharat Express is your best choice for fast, comfortable rail travel between south and metropolitan Tamil Nadu. It’s ideal for busy travellers, families, and those who value speed over conventional options.
Before you book, always check the IRCTC app or website for live fare, seat availability, and updated timings to make the most informed travel plan.
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.