Sabarimala pilgrimage: SCR to run special trains from Telangana, AP to Kerala
A special train (Train No. 07113) will operate between Cherlapally and Kollam from November 18 to January 13, departing every Tuesday
By - Newsmeter Network
Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) has announced a series of special train services to facilitate the travel of Ayyappa devotees heading to Sabarimala during the annual pilgrimage season. The services will operate from November 17 to January 20, 2026, connecting key cities across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra with Kerala.
Cherlapally–Kollam special service
A special train (Train No. 07113) will operate between Cherlapally and Kollam from November 18 to January 13, departing every Tuesday.
According to the SCR statement, the train will halt at major stations including Secunderabad, Lingampalli, Vikarabad, Tandur, Yadgir, Krishna, Raichur, Guntakal, Tirupati, Erode, Palakkad, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam and Kayankulam before reaching Kollam.
The return service (Train No. 07114) from Kollam to Cherlapally will run every Thursday between November 20 and January 15, following the same route.
Kakinada Town–Kottayam Route
Within the South Central Railway zone, a Kakinada Town–Kottayam special train (Train No. 07109) will operate every Monday from November 17 to January 19.
The return train (Train No. 07110) from Kottayam to Kakinada Town will run every Tuesday from November 18 to January 20.
Nanded–Kollam Connection
To further assist devotees from Maharashtra, SCR will operate special trains (Train Nos. 07111/07112) between HS Nanded and Kollam during the same period.
Facilitating pilgrim movement
“The special trains have been planned to ensure smooth travel for Ayyappa devotees heading to Sabarimala during the Mandala–Makaravilakku season,” the SCR said in its statement issued on Saturday.
The Sabarimala pilgrimage, one of the largest annual religious gatherings in South India, attracts millions of devotees between November and January each year.
Given the surge in demand for rail travel during this period, SCR has been operating seasonal special services for several years to manage passenger flow and ensure convenience.
Ticketing and information
Passengers can book tickets for these special trains through the IRCTC website or at reservation counters across railway stations. The SCR has advised pilgrims to verify timings and seat availability before planning their journey.
