Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Launched in India, Luxury Facility With Improved Connectivity, Know Ticket Price and Other Details

Indian Railways has taken a major step towards modernizing and making long-distance rail travel in India comfortable. A new-generation Vande Bharat Sleeper train is planned to transform the sleeper segment. A total of 260 rakes will be developed under this plan, considered the country’s largest sleeper train project.

According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, the primary objective of these trains is to make long-distance overnight travel faster, safer, and more comfortable. This will reduce pressure on traditional long-distance trains and provide better options for passengers.

The Launch of the Country’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

On January 17, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train from Malda Town Railway Station. This historic launch is considered a technological breakthrough in sleeper rail travel. This train will run between Howrah and Guwahati and will provide new convenience to long-distance travelers.

Train Speed, Distance, and Capacity

This semi-high-speed train will consist of 16 coaches, including third-AC, second-AC, and first-AC coaches. A total of 823 passengers can travel on the train. The train can reach a maximum speed of 180 kilometers per hour. The train will cover a distance of approximately 958 kilometers in approximately 14 hours, significantly reducing travel time.

Major Changes in the Ticketing System

A key feature of this train will be that only confirmed tickets will be available. There will be no RAC or waiting list ticket system. This will ensure a stress-free travel experience for passengers and reduce overcrowding.

Modern Amenities for Passengers

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will feature several high-tech features to enhance the travel experience. These will include sleeper berths with improved cushioning, a newly designed staircase, automatic sliding doors, a protective security system, CCTV surveillance, an emergency callback system, a fire safety system, modern bio-vacuum toilets, and touch-free fittings.

Advanced disinfection technology will be used to clean the coaches. Passengers will also receive food tailored to regional tastes.

Fares and Costs

Preliminary estimates suggest that fares for AC 3-tier classes may range from approximately ₹2,000 to ₹2,300. AC 2-tier classes are expected to cost approximately ₹2,500 to ₹3,000, and First AC classes are expected to cost approximately ₹3,000 to ₹3,600. The fares may be slightly higher than Rajdhani trains, but the travel time and amenities are considered a better option.

Potential Route and Stoppages

The train will stop at several important stations along its journey, providing better connectivity for passengers. Between Howrah and Kamakhya, it will stop at Bandel, Navadwip Dham, Katwa, Azimganj, New Farakka, Malda Town, Aluabari Road, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), Jalpaiguri Road, New Cooch Behar, New Alipurduar, New Bongaigaon, and Rangia.

Train Timetable

The Vande Bharat train is expected to depart Howrah at 6:20 pm and arrive at Kamakhya at 8:20 am the next morning. It will depart from Kamakhya at 6:15 pm and arrive at 8:15 am.

Future Plans

The Railway Ministry aims to introduce several more Vande Bharat sleeper trains in 2026. This could completely transform the nature of long-distance overnight travel in the country.