Delhi to Chennai Train
The fastest Delhi to Chennai train is the Chennai Rajdhani Express (12433) — approximately 26–28 hours, daily from H. Nizamuddin (NZM). Tamil Nadu Express (12621) departs daily from New Delhi (NDLS) and takes ~33 hours. Distance: 2,175 km. Sleeper fare from ₹950, 3AC from ₹2,640. All three major trains arrive at Chennai Central (MAS).
Popular Delhi to Chennai Train Trains
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Delhi to Chennai Train — Distance, Duration & Fares
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Rail Distance | ~2175 km |
| Journey Duration | 26–28 hours |
| Sleeper Class (SL) | From ₹950 approx. |
| 3 Tier AC (3AC / 3A) | From ₹2,640 approx. |
| 2 Tier AC (2AC / 2A) | From ₹3,790 approx. |
| Advance Booking Opens | 120 days before journey at 8:00 AM IST |
| Tatkal Booking Opens | 1 day before — AC at 10:00 AM, Non-AC at 11:00 AM IST |
* Fares are approximate base fares. Actual fares vary by train, quota, and season. Check live fares on IRCTC before booking.
How to Book Delhi to Chennai Train Ticket
- Check seat availability first — use PNR Alert route search to see which trains have confirmed seats on your travel date and class.
- Choose train and class — Rajdhani is fastest, AC-only. For Sleeper class, choose Express or Superfast trains. Compare departure times, days, and classes.
- Book on IRCTC — go to irctc.co.in or IRCTC Rail Connect app. Log in, select train/class/quota, and pay. Book up to 120 days in advance at 8:00 AM.
- Note your PNR number — your 10-digit PNR appears in the IRCTC booking confirmation email and SMS. Enter it on PNR Alert to track status and get WhatsApp alerts.
Booking Tips
Track PNR & Get Alerts
After booking a Delhi to Chennai Train ticket, track your PNR status on PNR Alert — no login needed:
- Enter your 10-digit PNR — instant result
- See CNF, WL, RAC status per passenger
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On travel day, use live running status to track train location and delay.
Fastest Train: Chennai Rajdhani Express (12433)
The Chennai Rajdhani Express (12433) is the fastest Delhi–Chennai train — running daily from H. Nizamuddin (NZM) to Chennai Central (MAS) in approximately 26–28 hours, covering 2,175 km. It departs NZM in the afternoon and arrives at MAS the next evening. AC-only classes (3AC, 2AC, 1AC) with meals included. Despite being faster, Rajdhani only covers 2 days in travel — ideal when time is more important than cost.
Popular Daily Option: Tamil Nadu Express (12621)
The Tamil Nadu Express (12621) is one of India's most iconic long-distance trains — running daily from New Delhi (NDLS) to Chennai Central (MAS) in approximately 33 hours. Unlike Rajdhani, Tamil Nadu Express has Sleeper class making it the most popular budget option. Note: Tamil Nadu Express departs from New Delhi (NDLS), while Rajdhani departs from H. Nizamuddin (NZM) — these are different stations.
Chennai Duronto Express (12269)
The Chennai Duronto Express (12269) runs on Friday and Sunday from H. Nizamuddin (NZM) to Chennai Central (MAS). As a Duronto (minimal halts), it is slightly faster than Tamil Nadu Express but runs only twice a week. It has Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC classes without meals included. The Duronto is a good middle-ground between Rajdhani's speed and Tamil Nadu Express's affordability.
Stations: Departure in Delhi and Arrival in Chennai
Important distinction: Tamil Nadu Express (12621) departs from New Delhi (NDLS), while Chennai Rajdhani (12433) and Chennai Duronto (12269) depart from H. Nizamuddin (NZM). In Chennai, all three major trains arrive at Chennai Central (MAS) — the primary railway station in the city. Do not confuse Chennai Central (MAS) with Chennai Egmore (MS), which serves mainly South Tamil Nadu destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions — Delhi to Chennai Train
Railway Guides for This Journey
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