Bangalore to Chennai: The Complete Travel Guide 2026 (Train, Bus & Flight)

*Planning a trip from Bangalore to Chennai? Here is everything you need to know — real prices, travel times, and the best option for your budget and schedule.*

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How Far is Bangalore from Chennai?

The distance between Bangalore and Chennai is approximately 350 kilometres by road. These two major South Indian cities are extremely well connected by train, bus and flight. This is one of South India's busiest travel corridors with hundreds of departures every day.

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3 Ways to Travel from Bangalore to Chennai

🚂 Option 1: Train (Best Value)

The train is the most popular option between Bangalore and Chennai — affordable, comfortable and reliable.

Key details:

• **Duration:** 5 to 6 hours
• **Price:** ₹200 to ₹1,500
• **Departure station:** KSR Bengaluru City Junction
• **Arrival station:** Chennai Central

Best trains on this route:

• **Shatabdi Express (12007/12008)** — fastest, most comfortable, takes about 5 hours
• **Brindavan Express** — affordable popular option
• **Lalbagh Express** — good morning train
• **Mysuru-Chennai Express** — overnight option

Why choose train:

• Most reliable and affordable
• Shatabdi is very fast and comfortable
• Multiple departures daily
• No traffic delays

Tip: Shatabdi Express is the best option — book it on IRCTC as early as possible. It fills up very fast.

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✈️ Option 2: Flight (Fastest)

For those who need to save time, flying is a good option.

Key details:

• **Duration:** 1 hour (flight time)
• **Total door-to-door:** 4 to 5 hours
• **Price:** ₹2,000 to ₹10,000
• **Departure:** Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (BLR)
• **Arrival:** Chennai International Airport (MAA)

Airlines:

• IndiGo (most frequent)
• Air India
• SpiceJet

Why choose flight:

• Fastest option
• Multiple flights daily
• Good for business travellers

Note: The airports in both cities are far from the city centre, so factor in 1.5 to 2 hours of travel time on each end.

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🚌 Option 3: Bus (Budget & Flexible)

Buses between Bangalore and Chennai are very frequent and affordable.

Key details:

• **Duration:** 6 to 7 hours
• **Price:** ₹400 to ₹1,800
• **Departure:** Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic), Bangalore
• **Arrival:** CMBT (Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus)

Types of buses:

• KSRTC/TNSTC Government buses — cheapest and reliable
• Volvo AC Sleeper — most comfortable
• Multi-axle Volvo — premium option

Why choose bus:

• Very frequent — buses every hour
• Government buses are extremely reliable
• No advance booking needed for most buses
• Affordable KSRTC buses from ₹400

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Which Option is Best for You?

| | Train | Flight | Bus |

|---|---|---|---|

| Price | ₹200–1,500 | ₹2,000–10,000 | ₹400–1,800 |

| Time | 5–6 hours | 1 hour | 6–7 hours |

| Comfort | High | High | Medium-High |

| Best for | Best overall | Speed | Budget/flexible |

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the fastest train from Bangalore to Chennai?

The Shatabdi Express (12007) is the fastest — takes about 5 hours and is very comfortable with meals included.

Q: Is there a direct bus from Bangalore to Chennai?

Yes! Both government (KSRTC/TNSTC) and private Volvo buses run directly between Bangalore and Chennai. Very frequent service.

Q: How much does a train ticket from Bangalore to Chennai cost?

Second Class Shatabdi starts from around ₹500. Sleeper class on other trains starts from ₹200.

Q: What is the best way to travel Bangalore to Chennai?

For most people the Shatabdi Express train is the best — fast, comfortable, affordable and reliable.

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Summary

Bangalore to Chennai is one of South India's most travelled routes with excellent connectivity. The Shatabdi Express is the best overall choice. Buses are great for flexible budget travel. Flights are for those who need maximum speed.

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*Tags: bangalore to chennai, bangalore chennai train, bangalore chennai bus, shatabdi express bangalore chennai, south india travel, cheapest way bangalore chennai, india travel guide 2026*