Thiruvananthapuram: In a major boost to rail connectivity between Kerala and Telangana, the iconic Sabari Express, running between Thiruvananthapuram Central and Secunderabad, has been upgraded to a Superfast Express by the Railway Board. The revised train will run under the new numbers 20630/20629, replacing the earlier 17229/17230, effective September 29, 2025.

This upgrade signifies a major reduction in travel time and improved scheduling, enhancing convenience for thousands of daily commuters and pilgrims who rely on the Sabari Express, especially those traveling to the famed Sabarimala temple and destinations across South and Central India.

Key highlights of the upgrade:

  • New train numbers: 20630 (Thiruvananthapuram - Secunderabad) and 20629 (Secunderabad - Thiruvananthapuram)
  • Commencement date: September 29, 2025
  • Delinked services: The upgraded Sabari Express will no longer be linked with the Padmavati Express (12763/12764) and the Tirupati - Secunderabad Express (12731/12732), ensuring smoother and more punctual operations.

The revised timings reflect a faster journey and streamlined halts across major stations such as Ernakulam Town, Thrissur, Palakkad, Coimbatore, Salem, Katpadi, Tirupati and Guntur, before reaching Secunderabad. The train now departs Thiruvananthapuram Central at 06.45 am and arrives at Secunderabad by 11.00 am the next day.

Impact on other train services

The reorganisation and speeding up of Sabari Express have prompted the revision of schedules for several other important trains from Southern Railway.

These changes also take effect from September 29, 2025, unless mentioned otherwise:

1. Train No. 13351 – Dhanbad – Alappuzha Express

New timings between Jolarpettai and Alappuzha have been announced, including earlier departures and adjusted halt durations across key stations like Salem, Erode, Coimbatore, Thrissur and Ernakulam Junction.

2. Train No. 16160 – Mangaluru Central – Tambaram Express

Timings revised between Palakkad and Erode, improving alignment with other express services on this corridor.

3. Train No. 66601 – Erode – Coimbatore Passenger

Rescheduled to begin at 07.30 am from Erode, with revised halts at intermediate stations like Tiruppur, Sulur Road and Coimbatore North, enhancing local commuting efficiency.

4. Train No. 16345 – Lokmanya Tilak Terminus – Thiruvananthapuram Central Netravati Express

Effective October 21, 2025, this long-distance train will follow updated timings between Aluva and Thiruvananthapuram, aiding better connectivity with southern Kerala districts.

A milestone for Kerala rail passengers

The upgrade of the Sabari Express is a long-pending demand of passengers from Kerala, particularly pilgrims and daily travelers heading to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The new Superfast status not only promises reduced journey time, but also greater punctuality and priority on congested routes.