Read this Vande Bharat Express Mumbai to Goa travel blog and get to know about ticket price, schedule, timings, route, days, executive class, stops list, ticket availability, running status and lot more.
India’s rail network has long connected distant corners with iconic journeys. But with the launch of the Mumbai CSMT – Madgaon Vande Bharat Express, the famed Konkan coast gets a fresh upgrade in speed, comfort, and connectivity. For anyone wondering what this train offers, how it changes travel between Mumbai and Goa, or whether it’s worth catching—read on.
What is the Mumbai–Goa Vande Bharat Express?
It is a semi‑high speed train service by Indian Railways, operating between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai, and Madgaon Junction, Goa (often known simply as “Goa” for travellers).
First inaugurated on 27 June 2023 as part of a batch of new Vande Bharat Express services.
Train numbers: 22229 (Mumbai → Madgaon) and 22230 (Madgaon → Mumbai).
Route, Distance & Travel Time
The total route covers roughly 581–586 km, along the picturesque Konkan Railway line.
Travel time depends on season (monsoon vs non‑monsoon):
In non‑monsoon periods, it typically runs six days a week (except one day for maintenance or Friday) and in monsoon periods it operates three times a week from each end.
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Scheduled Stops / Halts
The train halts at several key stations along the Mumbai‑Goa route. These are important both for passengers boarding‑off and for enjoying the scenery.
From Mumbai to Goa (Train 22229):
CSMT (Mumbai) → Dadar → Thane → Panvel → Khed → Ratnagiri → Kankavali → Thivim → Madgaon (Goa)
On the way back (Train 22230, Madgaon → Mumbai): same stops in reverse: Madgaon → Thivim → Kankavali → Ratnagiri → Khed → Panvel → Thane → Dadar → CSMT
Stop durations are brief, typically 2 minutes at each halt.
Timings: Departure & Arrival
Here are typical departure and arrival times. Remember: monsoon schedules may alter timings due to speed restrictions and safety.
Vande Bharat Fare / Ticket Prices
Prices depend on class (AC Chair Car vs Executive Chair Car), whether the journey includes catering, season, etc.
Here are approximate fares:
Tatkal charges (i.e. last‐minute booking) increase fares slightly.
Note: fares may vary depending on whether food / onboard service is included. Always check current IRCTC or Indian Railways data.
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Vande Bharat Train Features & Coaches
Travel experience is significantly upgraded in Vande Bharat compared to older trains:
Coaches & Seating: AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car. Airline‐style seating, rotatable, comfortable. No sleeping berths (day train).
Amenities: Large windows (good for views of the Konkan coast), reading lights, tray tables, seat pockets, bottle holders. Onboard WiFi, infotainment systems (varies), power outlets.
Safety & Modern Systems: Equipped with modern safety systems (for example “Kavach” – automatic train protection), etc.
On‑board Catering: Available, included in fares in many schedules. Food service during the journey.
Advantages Over Other Modes
What makes Vande Bharat appealing on this route?
Time Saving: Compared to the fastest trains earlier (like Tejas Express ~ 8h50m), the Vande Bharat cuts at least an hour or more off non‑monsoon timings.
Comfort & Amenities: More modern coaches, better seating, less crowded, onboard services.
Scenic Route: Konkan Railway is famous for dramatic landscapes—sea views, hills, forests, rivers, especially in monsoon or early post‑monsoons. Large windows of Vande Bharat make the journey visually richer.
Reliability & Safety: The upgraded track, electrification, safety systems reduce delays or disruptions (though monsoon still imposes restrictions).
Better Value vs Road: Driving or travelling by bus from Mumbai to Goa can take 10‑12 hours (or longer depending on traffic, road conditions), plus fatigue. Vande Bharat provides a more predictable schedule.
Challenges / Things to Keep in Mind
Monsoon Constraints: The Konkan route is vulnerable to heavy rains, landslides, speed restrictions. So journey time increases, and service frequency reduces.
Ticket Availability: Demand is high; reservation periods fill up fast, especially in peak seasons / holidays. The Executive Chair Car especially gets booked quickly.
Pricing: The fares are higher than many regular express or superfast trains. The executive class is premium. If budget is a concern, other options (cheaper trains, buses, flights) might be relevant.
No Sleeping Berths: Since it is a day train with chair seating, not suited for overnight rest. If leaving late or travelling overnight is preferred, you’ll have to choose alternative trains.
Boarding & Station Constraints: Some passengers may find boarding at early morning times (5:25 AM from Mumbai) inconvenient.
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Who Is It Best For?
Leisure travellers going to Goa who prefer to arrive during the day, avoid overnight journeys, and enjoy scenic train travel.
Business travellers who need predictable schedule and comfort.
Tourists looking to combine adventure + comfort.
Those wanting to avoid road traffic / fatigue.
Tips for Mumbai to Goa Travellers
To make the most of your Vande Bharat Mumbai‑Goa trip:
Book in Advance: Especially the Executive Chair Car, and during peak tourism season (December–January, Goa’s festive periods).
Check Monsoon vs Non‑Monsoon Schedule: Before planning, verify the train’s running days, timings for your travel date. IRCTC and official railway websites will show the correct timetable.
Travel Light: Since seating is chair style and overhead racks are used, lighter luggage will make things easier.
Pick Views: Seats on the right side (while going from Mumbai → Goa) might offer better coastal views during morning light; reverse direction timing matters, so choose window seat accordingly.
Carry Snacks or Water: Though meals are provided (if included), having snacks or hydration helps, particularly during monsoon delays or long intervals between stops.
Weather‑Appropriate Clothing: Monsoon makes things humid and wet — bring rain gear if travelling during that season.
Impact: For Goa, Konkan & Tourism
Boost to Tourism: Faster travel encourages more weekend trips, shorter‑duration visits to Goa from Mumbai / Maharashtra. Helps local businesses, hotels, restaurants.
Connectivity of Konkan Region: Stops like Ratnagiri, Kankavali, Thivim are important for locals and regional travellers. Better access for people in smaller towns.
Economic Benefits: Enhanced connectivity often leads to more investment, job opportunities in tourism, transport, services.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. How many days a week does this train run?
- Non‑monsoon: 6 days a week (except Fridays in many schedules) for both directions.
- Monsoon: Reduced frequency, about 3 days a week in each direction.
Q2. Is food included in the fare?
Yes, for many tickets, onboard catering is included. For both AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car, some amount of the cost covers meals or snack service. Always verify at booking.
Q3. Can I board from intermediate stations like Thane, Panvel etc.?
Yes. The train stops at Dadar, Thane, Panvel, etc. If your ticket is booked from those stations, you can board there. However, early boardings (CSMT) require you to reach the starting point or your boarding station ahead of time.
Q4. How does this compare to flights?
Flights are obviously faster (1–1.5 hrs), but costlier (especially factoring in airport transfers). Also, you miss the scenic journey. For moderate budgets and for those who prefer rail, Vande Bharat offers a strong middle ground.
Q5. Any special deals or discount categories?
Indian Railways often allows concessions for senior citizens, students, persons with disabilities. Tatkal charges apply for last‑minute bookings. Check when booking via IRCTC.
Conclusion
The Mumbai to Goa Vande Bharat Express marks a meaningful shift in how people travel along the Konkan coast. It’s faster, more comfortable, and more reliable than many older trains on the same route. For anyone traveling from Mumbai / Maharashtra to Goa—whether for a holiday, business, or simply to unwind—this train offers one of the best balance of speed, scenery, and convenience.
If you're planning to visit Goa soon, this train should be high on your list. Just plan around the monsoon, check your dates, book early, and enjoy one of India’s most beautiful train rides.
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