Mangalore-Rameswaram train: a rare pilgrimage via Pamban Bridge; 5 stops in Kerala

A NEW weekly express train connecting Mangaluru Central and Rameswaram (Train No. 16621/16622) was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 1, 2026, via Madurai.

This service connects the Malabar coast to the pilgrimage destination of Rameswaram, significantly enhancing rail connectivity between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. 

Key Details of the New Service:

Launch Date: March 1, 2026.

Train Numbers: 16621 (Rameswaram-Mangaluru Central) and 16622 (Mangaluru Central-Rameswaram).

Route: Covers the coastal region (Malabar Coast).

Significance: Connects key pilgrimage sites, fulfilling a long-standing demand for direct connectivity from the Malabar region to Rameswaram.

Service Frequency: Weekly.

Stops in Kerala: Reports indicate limited stops (around five) in Kerala.

The train, which departs from Mangaluru at 7.30 pm on Saturday, reaches Rameswaram at 11.45 am on Sunday. The return journey from Rameswaram is at 2 pm on Sunday. It reaches Mangaluru at 5.50 pm on Monday.

The train stops at Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Shoranur, Palakkad and 12 other stations, including Palani, Dindigul, Madurai and Ramanathapuram.