How Long Is the Train from Delhi to Goa? Travel Times & Tips

If you're thinking about swapping Delhi's city buzz for Goa's laid-back beaches, you're probably wondering just how long that train ride really takes. Spoiler: it's not a quick trip. Most trains from Delhi to Goa take anywhere from 24 to 39 hours, depending on which one you pick and how lucky you are with delays. That's a full day (or more) of travel—so you want the details before you book your ticket.

There are a handful of different trains running this route—some much quicker than others. The Rajdhani Express is the fastest, sometimes clocking in just under 25 hours. Others like the Mangala Lakshadweep Express can stretch closer to 38 hours. These aren't high-speed bullet trains, and there will be stops, scenery, and a whole lot of chai vendors coming through your carriage.

So, why do people still take the train to Goa? Flights might be faster, but the train is cheaper, offers a slice of real Indian travel, and you get to see the countryside change right outside your window. Plus, you can pack as much as you want—nobody's checking if your bag is 23.1 kg at the station.

• Journey Duration and Route Options
• Popular Trains from Delhi to Goa
• What to Expect on the Train
• Tips for a Comfortable Ride

Journey Duration and Route Options

The big question: how long will you actually spend on the train between Delhi and Goa? The short answer—almost always more than 24 hours. This route covers around 1,900 kilometers, so it’s a serious trek across India. The exact duration depends on the train you choose, your boarding and destination stations, and the route taken.

Most travelers catch one of these three main trains:

• Rajdhani Express (12450/12452) – The fastest option. Travel time is about 24 to 26 hours. It starts from Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) in Delhi and ends at Madgaon (MAO) in Goa, with limited stops. It’s pricier because the food is included and the train is more comfortable.
• Mangala Lakshadweep Express (12618) – This one starts at Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) and heads to Madgaon (MAO). Travel time is about 36 to 39 hours. It stops way more often and sometimes faces delays.
• Goa Express (12780) – Starts at Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), usually takes 36 to 38 hours depending on the day, and ends at Vasco Da Gama (VSG) in Goa. Expect a classic Indian train experience—with long stretches and lots of stops.

Here's a quick look at the main options and their scheduled travel times:

The Delhi to Goa train also gives you some flexibility with boarding and drop-off points, but most people still use the main city stations. Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM) is the easiest departure point in Delhi, and Madgaon (MAO) or Vasco Da Gama (VSG) work best if you’re heading to the beach belt in Goa.

If you’re in a rush, aim for the Rajdhani. If your schedule is loose and you want to save on ticket price, the daily Goa Express or Mangala might fit. Keep in mind, though, during monsoon or festival times, trains fill early and delays get worse. Booking months in advance is the safest bet, especially for popular dates.

Popular Trains from Delhi to Goa

If you're planning to hop on a train from Delhi to Goa, you've got a few solid options, but picking the right one makes all the difference. This route is pretty popular, so tickets can sell out fast—especially during holidays and school breaks.

The fastest and probably the most comfortable way is the Delhi to Goa train called the Trivandrum Rajdhani Express (train no. 12432). It runs four times a week, leaves from Hazrat Nizamuddin station in Delhi, and rolls into Madgaon in about 25 hours, give or take. You get meals on board, and if you stick with AC classes, it's a smoother ride. Rajdhani is usually on time, which is a big plus.

If you can't find a seat on the Rajdhani, the Mangala Lakshadweep Express (train no. 12618) is your next bet. This one starts from Hazrat Nizamuddin too but takes closer to 38 hours to reach Madgaon. It's slower, more stops, but has more affordable sleeper class tickets. There's always a good crowd, especially college kids and families headed for the beaches.

For folks who want some extra comfort or need to leave on a specific day, the Goa Sampark Kranti Express (train no. 12450) and the Nizamuddin Madgaon SF Express (train no. 12780) are options to check out. Their timings and days vary, so you’ll want to double-check on the IRCTC app or a train status website before locking in your plans.

• Trivandrum Rajdhani Express (12432): 25 hours, runs four times a week, meals included, AC only.
• Mangala Lakshadweep Express (12618): Around 38 hours, daily, all classes, very popular.
• Goa Sampark Kranti Express (12450): About 29-30 hours, less frequent, decent comfort.
• Nizamuddin Madgaon SF Express (12780): 30-32 hours, two days a week, all classes.

Booking these trains is best done a month ahead for the best choice of seats—especially if you want AC or side berths. Don't forget, Madgaon is the main station you'll want in Goa; some trains also stop at Thivim or Karmali if you're heading to North Goa beaches.

What to Expect on the Train

When you board a train from Delhi to Goa, you’re in for a long but interesting ride. Depending on the type of coach and train you choose, your comfort level can be very different. Most people opt for sleeper class, AC 3-tier, or if you’re splurging, AC 2-tier. Upgrades mean air conditioning and bed linens. Budget coaches are crowded and noisy, but you’ll get a serious dose of real Indian travel.

Food is available on most trains, but it’s Indian Railways food—think simple vegetarian curries, rice, roti, samosas, instant noodles, and mineral water. The Rajdhani Express serves meals included in your ticket, while other trains have vendors walking the aisles selling snacks and hot chai. Pack your own if you’re picky or want something specific. Staying hydrated is important, so bring an extra bottle because the official refill stops aren’t always reliable.

Charging your devices is always a gamble. There may be shared outlets in the AC coaches, but they’re usually busy. Pack a power bank. Restrooms range from basic to messy, so bring your own toilet paper and some hand sanitizer just to be safe.

Here’s a look at what you might find, depending on your ticket:

The scenery keeps you entertained during the day. You’ll roll through deserts outside Delhi, fields in Madhya Pradesh, jungles before the Konkan coast, and finally spot palm trees as you head into Goa. Some folks pass the time reading, playing games with their seatmates, or watching shows offline since WiFi is usually non-existent. Download what you need ahead of time.

Safety-wise, you should keep your valuables close. Most travelers say their journey is uneventful, but an extra lock or chain for your bag is a smart move. On overnight rides, train attendants walk the aisles, but keep your wallet and phone where you can see them.

This isn’t a quick trip, but the Delhi to Goa train is a true adventure. You’ll meet people, see India change right out your window, and step into Goa ready to hit the beach.

Tips for a Comfortable Ride

No one wants to spend over a day on a train feeling annoyed and unprepared. A little planning goes a long way to make your long Delhi to Goa ride bearable—even enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know to actually enjoy the journey.

• Choose your class wisely. Indian trains usually offer AC First Class, AC 2-tier, AC 3-tier, Sleeper, and General. For a trip this long, go for AC 2-tier or 3-tier if you want air conditioning and a reserved bed at a decent price. Sleeper is cheaper but can get stuffy and crowded, especially in summer.
• Pack snacks and water. Train food is okay but can get repetitive, and food vendors might skip your carriage. Grab your favorite packaged snacks before boarding and bring a reusable water bottle—there are water refill points at bigger stations.
• Don’t forget chargers and power banks. Not every carriage has working charging points. A power bank saves you from boredom when your phone runs out during the journey.
• Stock up on hygiene basics. A roll of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes can be lifesavers. Restrooms are basic—nobody wants surprises at hour 15.
• Bring entertainment. Download shows, playlists, or books ahead of time. You can’t rely on network coverage once you’re rolling through remote bits of Maharashtra or Karnataka.

If you need a better sense of your options, here’s a quick comparison of the main travel classes usually found on this route:

*Prices based on typical 2025 fares. Actual rates can vary by train and season.

• Set alarms for your major stops. If you’re a deep sleeper or travelling at odd hours, set an alarm on your phone. Few things sting like missing your stop for Panaji and ending up another hundred kilometers south.
• Keep your valuables close. Use a money belt or small sling bag when you sleep. Petty theft isn’t rampant on Indian trains but why take chances?

And that’s how you make the most of your Delhi to Goa train adventure—pack smart, book the right seat, and keep some creature comforts close.