https://3speak.tv/watch?v=bighungrypanda/gahhiqjoee
When @yugadi finally quit her job in Chennai and decided to move back to her parents’ place in Nippani, it wasn’t going to be a simple journey. The only way for her to get home was to take a train from Chennai to Bangalore and then catch an overnight bus to Nippani. With quite a bit of luggage, she needed help moving everything, and well I wasn’t going to let her travel alone either ways. My plan was to help her shift things to Bangalore, and from there, she would continue on her own to Nippani, while I had to return to Chennai. Since I had to make the return trip anyway, I figured, why not try the Vande Bharat Express 🚆 ?

For anyone who has taken a regular sleeper train between Bangalore and Chennai, you know it takes around 6 to 7 hours. But the Vande Bharat Express covers the same distance in just 4 hours and 30 minutes, making it one of the fastest train options available on this route. Given that I usually travel by the standard trains, I was quite curious to see how this premium service compared.

The price difference between a regular train and the Vande Bharat is significant. A sleeper class ticket on a Non AC train costs around Rs 235, while a ticket for the AC Chair Car in the Vande Bharat Express is Rs 955. If you opt for the Executive Chair Car, the fare goes up to around Rs 1,650. While the price is definitely on the higher side compared to regular trains, it comes with added benefits like a faster journey, improved comfort, and onboard meals.

Booking tickets for the Vande Bharat Express is straightforward and can be done online through the IRCTC website or mobile app (I Usually Book Mine Via PAYTM). Given its popularity, seats can fill up fast, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.

My train was scheduled for departure at 14:50 from KSR Bangalore Station, and I was set to reach Chennai at 19:20. As soon as I reached the station, I could tell this wasn’t like my usual train journeys. The platform had a different vibe, with people clicking pictures of the sleek looking blue and white train. The Vande Bharat Express is designed to look more modern than typical Indian trains, and it surely does stands out.

Boarding the train was a breeze. Unlike older trains, the Vande Bharat has automated doors that open and close smoothly. Inside, the train is spacious, with comfortable push back seats, similar to what you’d find in a premium bus or a flight. The overhead luggage storage is convenient and well designed, ensuring that even passengers with larger bags can stow them away easily.

One of the biggest complaints about Indian Railways is often the cleanliness of trains, but the Vande Bharat Express completely changes that perception. The interiors were spotless, and the washrooms were well maintained! something that is quite rare in most Indian trains. The entire setup felt more like an airplane cabin than a train.

The seats are wide and cushioned, with ample legroom, making the journey far more comfortable than a regular train. Each seat has a tray table, which comes in handy when eating meals or working on a laptop. Plus each seat has a charging point under the seat (You Have To Bend Quite A Bit To Get There Though 😂) ensuring you don’t have to worry about your phone battery running out mid journey whereas regular trains only have 3-4 points for each section of 8 people 🥲

One of the things I didn’t realize about the Vande Bharat Express was that it includes meals depending on the duration of your travel. This was a pleasant surprise. Shortly after departure, the staff served snacks, including a cup of tea/coffee, biscuits, and a small packet of muffin, popcorn, cream bun and bhujia. The food quality was decent, nothing extraordinary, but much better than what you usually get on regular trains which are charged extra. The service was prompt, and the staff was courteous.

The train runs at an average speed of around 130 km/h and can go up to 160 km/h on certain stretches. This makes it significantly faster than other trains on this route. Despite the high speed, the ride was smooth, with very little noise or jerking. You can easily read a book, work on a laptop, or even nap without being disturbed by the usual clanking and shaking of train compartments.

The 20608 MAS Vande Bharat Express starts from Mysore and has only two stops before reaching Chennai:

Since it has limited stops, the train maintains a high speed throughout the journey. This is one of the reasons why it manages to complete the trip in just 4 hours and 30 minutes.

After experiencing this journey, I can say that the Vande Bharat Express is ideal for those who prioritize comfort, speed, and convenience. Here’s why it stands out:

Faster Travel – If you need to get between Bangalore and Chennai quickly, this is the best train option available.

Better Comfort – Spacious seats, clean washrooms, and a well maintained cabin make the journey much more pleasant than regular trains.

Onboard Meals – The inclusion of snacks and meals is a nice touch, making the journey hassle free.

Modern Facilities – Automated doors, clean interiors, and well-designed seating make it feel more like a flight than a train ride.

Reliable Service – The train is punctual, and with limited stops, there’s little chance of delays.

While the price is definitely higher than regular trains, the Vande Bharat Express justifies the cost with its speed, cleanliness, and overall travel experience. If you are someone who frequently travels between Bangalore and Chennai and doesn’t mind spending a bit more for comfort, this train is absolutely worth it.

For me, the journey was smooth, quick, and comfortable far better than the usual long and tiring train rides. I can definitely see myself choosing the Vande Bharat again for future trips. If you haven’t tried it yet and are looking for a hassle free train journey, I’d highly recommend giving it a shot!