Amid festive session, special trains to run between Chennai and Kerala

To manage the expected surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming Diwali festival, Southern Railway has announced the operation of special express trains between Thiruvananthapuram North and Chennai Egmore.

These services aim to offer additional connectivity for travellers heading home or visiting family during the festive period.

According to the official schedule, Train No 06108 Thiruvananthapuram North–Chennai Egmore Express Special will depart from Thiruvananthapuram North at 5.10 pm on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, and reach Chennai Egmore at 11.00 am on Wednesday, October 22.

The return service, Train No. 06107 Chennai Egmore–Thiruvananthapuram North Express Special, will depart Chennai Egmore at 1.25 pm on Wednesday, October 22, and arrive at Thiruvananthapuram North at 8.00 am the following day.

These trains will provide vital connectivity across Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with scheduled halts at several key stations include Varkala, Kollam, Kayankulam, Mavelikara, Chengannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Erode, Salem, Katpadi and Perambur, among others. 

The timing of stops at each station has been planned to ensure passenger convenience, especially for those travelling overnight.

Each train will consist of 16 AC Three Tier coaches, two Sleeper Class coaches and two luggage-cum-brake vans, offering both reserved and limited unreserved travel options.

This composition is designed to accommodate higher volumes of passengers while maintaining comfort and safety.

Southern Railway has announced that advance reservations for both special services will open at 8.00 am on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

Given the limited services and high demand expected around the Diwali season, passengers are advised to book their tickets at the earliest to secure travel during this busy period.

These Diwali special trains are part of Indian Railways’ broader effort to ensure smooth, safe and accessible travel for citizens during major festivals, especially in high-demand corridors like Chennai to Kerala. More such services may be introduced if demand continues to rise in the coming days.