Karnataka: Train links north Karnataka with coastal belt, boosting travel and tourism
The Mangaluru Central – Vijayapura Express, initially launched as a special service in 2019, has been made a regular train from September 1, Indian Railways announced. The train, now renumbered 17377/17378, connects North Karnataka to the coastal region, facilitating access to pilgrimage centres, educational institutions, multi-speciality hospitals, and scenic beaches.
Coastal residents can also use the service to reach historic sites such as Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal, while travellers to Belur, Halebeedu, Dandeli, and Hampi can conveniently alight at Hassan, Hubballi, and Gadag, respectively.
Train schedule and route
The train departs Mangaluru Central at 4:45 pm, arriving at Vijayapura at 11:15 am the following day. In the return direction, it leaves Vijayapura at 3 pm and reaches Mangaluru Central at 9:50 am, covering a distance of 843 km.
The train’s route includes stops at:
- Mangaluru
- Puttur
- Subrahmanya Road
- Hassan
- Arasikere
- Davanagere
- Hubballi
- Gadag
- Bagalkote
- Almatti
- Basavana Bagewadi Road
Goa route disruption notice
Meanwhile, passengers travelling via the Goa rail route will experience temporary disruptions due to track doubling work between Castle Rock and Londa.
- 17333 Miraj – Castle Rock Daily Express will terminate at Londa till October 31.
- 17334 Castle Rock – Miraj Express will originate from Londa instead of Castle Rock during the same period.
Railway authorities have urged passengers to plan their journeys accordingly.
Conclusion
The regularisation of the Mangaluru Central – Vijayapura Express is expected to boost regional connectivity, improve tourism, and provide a convenient travel option for students, pilgrims, and business travellers alike.