IRCTC offers 8-day air tour of Rajasthan visiting Khatushyam

Currently, the journey from Bangalore to Mumbai by train takes about 22–24 hours. However, it is expected that the launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train between these two cities will reduce travel time by 6–8 hours. This train is anticipated to begin operations this month.

According to the proposed schedule, the trip from Bangalore to Mumbai will take 16 hours and 5 minutes. The return journey from Mumbai to Bangalore is estimated to last about 15 hours and 45 minutes. This route will be the first Vande Bharat Sleeper high-speed train in South India.

The proposed railway route is approximately 1137 kilometers long, fully electrified, and equipped with double tracks. Most of this section allows for speeds of up to 130 kilometers per hour, making it an attractive option for high-speed service. The train is designed to meet the needs of passengers undertaking long overnight journeys.

Although the final launch date and schedule are awaiting official announcement from the railways, the proposed timetable includes the train departing from SMVT Bengaluru terminal at 19:50 and arriving at CSMT Mumbai terminal the next day at 11:55. For the return trip, the train is planned to depart from CSMT Mumbai at 20:10, arriving in Bangalore at 11:55 the following day.

According to sources, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train route between Bangalore and Mumbai may have stops at certain stations. Potential train numbers 27651 and 27652 are mentioned, but final confirmation of stops and numbers is still pending. These details will be determined after an official statement from the railways.

Under the initial plan, the train was supposed to start from the SMVT station in Bangalore. However, there is a requirement to launch the train from the main railway station of the city, KSR Bengaluru, as it is more convenient for passengers. The initial announcement for the train launch was made in September 2025, and now the decision from the railways regarding the starting station must be awaited.

Two sets of 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper trains have been prepared for this service. Their construction was carried out by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) under the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) program. According to sources, one set is located at the Bangalore depot, and the second is in Vardapur, near Bangarapet. The Railway Commission may soon issue an official notification regarding the transfer of these sets to the South Western Railway.

The total composition of the proposed Vande Bharat Sleeper train will consist of 16 coaches, including 11 3AC class coaches, 4 2AC class coaches, and 1 1AC class coach. The approximate ticket price in 3AC class is around 3000 Indian rupees. It is expected that breakfast and meals will be included in this price, as Vande Bharat trains provide meal selection on long journeys. The railway anticipates that the lower price and shorter travel time compared to air travel will make this service popular among passengers.

October is considered the best month for travel because after the monsoon season, many previously inaccessible roads and places open up, doubling the enjoyment of the trip. This month is especially attractive due to the upcoming long weekend, when people plan trips with friends and family.

Since October 2nd falls on a Friday and is a national holiday, people are given a long weekend from October 2nd to 4th. You can take a bus from Delhi on Thursday evening and return by bus on Sunday evening, thus getting three full days to explore many wonderful places.

If you are also planning a trip during the long weekend in October, you can include these magnificent destinations in your list. These places do not require much travel time, allowing you to explore many ideal locations.

Attractive destinations for an October trip

Jaipur, Rajasthan

In October, the heat decreases, and cool winds make the weather pleasant. At this time, you can plan a trip to the capital of Rajasthan—Jaipur. If you want to go only with friends, Jaipur will be the perfect place for you. Here you can enjoy Rajasthani cuisine by visiting Jal Mahal, Bapu Bazaar, Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, and City Palace. In Bapu Bazaar, girls can purchase skirts, bags, and shoes to adorn their Navratri celebrations.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Currently, solo travel is growing in popularity among people. If you want to escape the stressful office life and spend quiet moments alone, you can plan a trip to Rishikesh, which is only a six-hour drive from Delhi. There you can watch the Ganga Aarti in the evening, spending time on the banks of Triveni Ghat, observing the river's flow in solitude. Furthermore, people come from afar for Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, and rafting on the river is possible here, provided the river current is not too strong.

Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh

Jibhi in Himachal Pradesh is extremely beautiful, and people come from all over the country to admire the mountain landscapes. Despite its popularity, Jibhi is not overly crowded. Here you can spend quality time with friends, enjoying the mountains away from the crowds, and trying local Himachali cuisine, which will make your trip unforgettable. The journey from Delhi takes 10 to 12 hours, after which the captivating views of Jibhi await, capturing hearts.

Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

People often visit Nainital and Kempty Dham, but many miss the opportunity to visit a quiet place located 70 kilometers from Haldwani—Mukteshwar. You can go there with friends or family. The Mahadev temple in Mukteshwar is very famous and has connections to the Pandavas' time. Additionally, Choli Ki Jali and Balaugar waterfall are ideal spots for photography enthusiasts. From Delhi, you can reach Haldwani by bus, and then take a local Uttarakhand bus to Mukteshwar, where the scenery will bring you joy.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

During the long weekend, you can also plan a trip to Udaipur, where many amazing places await you. In Udaipur, you can walk around Pichola Lake, City Palace, and Jagdish Temple.

You can visit Udaipur with friends or a partner. Here you will have the opportunity to see Rajasthani culture up close and do some shopping.

However, before planning a mountain trip, be sure to check the weather forecast, as mountain weather can change at any moment.