Mangaluru: In anticipation of the heavy influx of Sabarimala pilgrims during the Mandala–Makaravilakku season, railway authorities have announced special weekly trains between Mangaluru Junction and Thiruvananthapuram North. With the pilgrimage season witnessing a massive turnout of over 15 lakh devotees in just 18 days, the additional train services aim to ease travel congestion and offer greater convenience to pilgrims heading to Kerala.
Weekly Express Special from Mangaluru to Thiruvananthapuram
The Mangaluru Junction–Thiruvananthapuram North Weekly Express Special (Train No. 06041) will operate every Sunday from 7 December to 18 January. The train is scheduled to depart from Mangaluru Junction at 6 pm and reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 6.30 am the next day.
Officials stated that the service is expected to significantly reduce crowding on regular trains, which have been running at full capacity due to the pilgrimage season.
Return service from Thiruvananthapuram to Mangaluru
To facilitate the return journey of pilgrims, the Thiruvananthapuram North–Mangaluru Junction Weekly Express Special (Train No. 06042) will run every Monday from 8 December to 19 January. The train will depart from Thiruvananthapuram North at 8.30 am and is expected to arrive at Mangaluru Central at 8.30 pm on the same day.
Railway officials said that the additional services would ensure smoother movement of devotees returning from Sabarimala after completing their pilgrimage rituals.
Pilgrimage season witnesses massive turnout
The Mandala–Makaravilakku season, one of the most significant annual religious observances in South India, has already completed 18 days. With an estimated 15 lakh pilgrims reaching Sabarimala so far, authorities are expecting the numbers to rise considerably in the coming weeks, especially as the Makaravilakku day approaches.
Kerala’s public transport and railway networks typically experience exceptional demand during this period, prompting the need for special arrangements each year. This season’s early surge has led to increased pressure on routes connecting Karnataka and Kerala, including Mangaluru.
Aim to ensure smooth and safe travel
Railway authorities have urged passengers to verify schedules and book tickets early to avoid last-minute difficulties. They added that these special trains are part of broader efforts to ensure the safe and efficient movement of pilgrims during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
With additional trains in operation, authorities expect better distribution of passenger load and reduced congestion at major railway stations across the region.
Conclusion
The introduction of weekly special trains between Mangaluru Junction and Thiruvananthapuram North comes as a timely measure to support the increasing number of Sabarimala pilgrims travelling during the Mandala–Makaravilakku season. With over 15 lakh devotees already participating, these services are expected to significantly ease travel pressures and provide a smoother journey for thousands in the coming weeks