[1] It operates as train number 12659 from Nagercoil Junction to Shalimar and as train number 12660 in the reverse direction serving the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal.

The Gurudev Express is a joint tribute to Rabindranath Tagore and saint Sree Narayana Guru The 12659 / 60 Gurudev Express has one AC 2-tier, two AC 3-tier, 13 sleeper class, three general unreserved and two SLR (seating with luggage rake) coaches and two high capacity parcel van coaches.

[2] As is customary with most train services in India, coach composition may be amended at the discretion of Indian Railways depending on demand.

As the average speed of the train is slightly above 55 km/h (34 mph), as per railway rules, its fare includes a Superfast surcharge.

Later, an Howrah Junction based WAP-4 locomotive takes the reversed direction and pulls the train to its destination.