The first-ever Vande Bharat sleeper train was inaugurated on 17th January, 2026, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Malda Town in West Bengal.

Check all the details regarding the Vande Bharat sleeper train, including route, travel time, coach types & cost, booking options, and more. 

All about Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

The new Vande Bharat sleeper train is designed for overnight and long-distance journeys. Before the launch of sleeper coaches, Vande Bharat trains were designed for daytime, intercity travel and had only seating coaches. 

Here are some key details on the Vande Bharat sleeper train that you must know:

Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Route

The Vande Bharat sleeper train will connect Howrah Junction in West Bengal with Kamakhya Junction in Guwahati. The first Vande Bharat sleeper train route will cover a total distance of 1,000 kilometres. 

Vande Bharat Sleeper: Stations

The Vande Bharat sleeper Train will cover several key stations between Howrah Junction and Kamakhya Junction, including Bandel, Malda Town, New Jalpaiguiri, Katwa, New Coochbehar, and New Bongaigaon. 

Vande Bharat Sleeper: Travel time

The Vande Bharat sleeper train will operate at semi-high speed, reaching up to 180 kmph. Although the exact travel time between the stations is not yet official, the train is expected to be approximately three hours shorter than other trains.

Vande Bharat Sleeper: Coach Details

The new Vande Bharat sleeper train has three types of coaches, including eleven 3-tier AC coaches, four 2-tier AC coaches and one AC first coach. 

Features of Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper

If you are planning to travel on the new Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat sleeper train, here are some key features you may be expecting:

• Sleeping Coaches

The new Vande Bharat train will have comfortable sleeping coaches for long-distance journeys. Seats are cushioned and broad for passenger comfort.

• Safety and Advanced Technology

Each coach is equipped with multiple safety and advanced technology features. Some features include CCTV cameras, a centralised coach-monitoring system, a KAVACH anti-collision system for safe operations, and emergency talk-back units for crew communication.

• Clean and Hygienic Washrooms

Every coach has clean and hygienic washrooms to make long journeys even more comfortable. Washrooms will include modern bio-vacuum toilets and designated washrooms for passengers with disabilities.

• Amenities

To ensure passenger comfort, additional amenities include USB charging ports, ample luggage storage, and personal reading lights.

• Food and Snacks Services

Food is included in the ticket fare on the Vande Bharat sleeper train. Passengers are served onboard meals with regional flavours.

Vande Bharat Sleeper Coach: Ticket Price and New Rules

Here are all the important details on Vande Bharat coach ticket prices and reservation rules you should know before booking your tickets:

Fare structure per class

Here’s a detailed fare structure of every class in the Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat sleeper train:

Class	Howrah to Kamakhya	Howrah to New Jalpaiguri	Howrah to Malda Town	Kamakhya to Malda Town	Kamakhya to New Jalpaiguri
1 AC	₹3,640	₹2,113	₹1,520	₹2,409	₹1,524
2 AC	₹2,970	₹1,724	₹1,240	₹1,965	₹1,243
3 AC	₹2,299	₹1,334	₹960	₹1,522	₹962

New Rules

There are three important rules of Vande Bharat sleeper trains that you must know: 

• Only fully confirmed tickets will be issued.
• There is no policy for reservation against cancellation (RAC)
• Bookings will start once the reservation period (ARP) begins.

How to Book Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Tickets

Here’s how you can book Vande Bharat sleeper train tickets:

• IRCTC

You can book Vande Bharat sleeper train tickets through the official IRCTC website. Make sure you already have an IRCTC user id to book tickets.

• redRail

You can choose redRail to book your Vande Bharat sleeper train tickets for a hassle-free experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

Step 1: Visit the redRail official website or open the mobile app.

Step 2: Select the “Train Tickets” option.

Step 3: Enter journey details like source, destinations, and journey dates to search trains.

Step 4: From the list of trains, select “Vande Bharat Sleeper Express”.

Step 5: Select the class and coach you want to book tickets for.

Step 6: Fill in passenger details like name, age, mobile number, etc.

Step 7: Make the payment and receive your ticket instantly at the registered email and number.

FAQs

Is Vande Bharat launching sleeper trains?

Yes, Vande Bharat is launching sleeper trains. The first sleeper train was inauguated on 17 January 2026, and it will run between Howrah, West Bengal, and Kamakhya, Assam.

How many sleeper coaches are there in the New Vande Bharat sleeper train?

In the New Vande Bharat sleeper train, there are eleven 3-tier AC coaches, four 2-tier AC coaches, and one AC first coach. 

Can I book a waiting list ticket for the Vande Bharat sleeper train?

No, you cannot book a waiting list ticket for the Vande Bharat sleeper train. Only fully confirmed tickets will be sold for this new train.

Is food included in Vande Bharat sleeper train?

Yes, food is included in every ticket for the Vande Bharat sleeper train. The cost is not mentioned separately in the ticket.

Is the Vande Bharat sleeper train more expensive than other express trains?

The cost of the Vande Bharat sleeper train is similar to that of other express trains. However, there may be a few differences, as the Vande Bharat sleeper train features a modern design, higher quality, and higher running speeds.

How can I book tickets for the Vande Bharat sleeper train?

You can book your tickets for the Vande Bharat sleeper train either through the IRCTC or redRail.

Why should I choose redRail to book my train tickets?

You should choose redRail to book your train tickets for a convenient experience and quick ticket bookings. You can alsoget exciting discounts via the mobile app or the official website.