The Chennai to Thiruvananthapuram train route covers approximately 842 km by rail and takes around 15.3 hours depending on the type of train. Indian Railways operates multiple daily services on this route, connecting Tamil Nadu to Kerala.
This is a medium-distance route with overnight trains being the most popular choice. Multiple train types operate on this route — from premium Rajdhani and Vande Bharat to affordable Sleeper and General class services.
Train tickets can be booked on IRCTC up to 120 days in advance. During peak seasons (October-March, festivals, summer holidays), tickets sell out quickly — book early for confirmed berths.
Book on IRCTCApproximate fares for the 842 km journey. Actual fares vary by train, season, and booking time. Tatkal fares are higher.
| Class | Description | Approx. Fare |
|---|---|---|
| 1AAC First Class | Private 2-berth cabins with door, premium bedding | ₹2,084 |
| 2AAC 2-Tier | Curtained berths, comfortable for overnight | ₹1,158 |
| 3AAC 3-Tier | Most popular AC class, good value | ₹834 |
| SLSleeper Class | Non-AC, budget-friendly with berths | ₹324 |
| 2SSecond Sitting | Non-AC reserved seating for short routes | ₹185 |
| CCAC Chair Car | AC seating for day trains like Shatabdi | ₹926 |
* Fares are approximate and may vary. Check IRCTC for exact pricing. Tatkal charges, GST, and dynamic pricing may apply.
| Train | Departure | Arrival | Duration | Runs | Classes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Shalimar Tiruvananthapuram Express
#16324 · Exp
|
04:15 MAS |
22:30 TVC |
18h 15m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL |
|
GUWAHATI - TRIVANDRUM CENTRAL EXP
#12516 · SF
|
04:40 MAS |
22:55 TVC |
18h 15m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL |
|
GUWAHATI - TRIVANDRUM SF Exp
#12508 · SF
|
04:40 MAS |
TVC |
Daily | 2A,3A,SL | |
|
CHENNAI EGMORE - GURUVAYUR Exp
#16127 · Exp
|
07:40 MS |
23:30 TVC |
15h 50m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL |
|
Chennai-Thiruvananthapuram Express
#12697 · SF
|
15:15 MAS |
06:35 TVC |
15h 20m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL |
|
Chennai-Trivandrum SuperFast Express
#12695 · SF
|
15:25 MAS |
07:40 TVC |
16h 15m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL,FC |
|
CHENNAI EGMORE - TRIVANDRUM Anantapuri Exp
#16723 · Exp
|
19:15 MS |
11:05 TVC |
15h 50m | Daily | 1A,2A,3A,SL |
|
Chennai Tiruvananthapuram SF Mail
#12623 · SF
|
19:45 MAS |
11:25 TVC |
15h 40m | Daily | 1A,2A,3A,SL |
|
Rapti Sagar Express
#12511 · SF
|
23:45 MAS |
17:50 TVC |
18h 05m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL |
|
Ahilyanagari Express
#16325 · Exp
|
23:45 MAS |
17:50 TVC |
18h 05m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL |
|
Korba Tiruvananthapuram Express
#16327 · Exp
|
23:45 MAS |
17:50 TVC |
18h 05m | Daily | 2A,3A,SL |
* Schedule may vary. Check IRCTC for latest timings and availability. Scroll to see all 11 trains.
Not sure if train is the best option? Compare with flights and buses for the Chennai to Thiruvananthapuram route:
Official resources for Indian Railways travel:
IRCTC — Book train tickets online, check PNR status
National Train Enquiry System — Live train status, schedule, seat availability
ConfirmTkt — PNR prediction and alternative route suggestions
Indian Railways — Official website of Ministry of Railways