India is all ready to launch its first Vande Bharat sleeper train. The Vande Bharat train was first launched in 2019, and since then, several trains have been launched under this flagship. However, so far, Vande Bharat had only seat coaches. 

If you are planning to travel in Vande Bharat sleeper coaches, it is important to know about their route, fares, features, and more.  

When will the Vande Bharat Sleeper Launch?

The Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav recently announced the launch of the first Vande Bharat sleeper train. The train is ready to be inaugurated on 17th January, 2026, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Here are some details about its launching date, route, and more:

• The Vande Bharat sleeper train will be inaugurated on 17th January, 2026, at Malda Town, West Bengal.
• The first train will operate between Kamakhya and Howrah Junction. 
• The Vande Bharat sleeper train will run six days a week.
• What is the Vande Bharat Sleeper Travel Time?

The Vande Bharat sleeper train will cover a total distance of 1000 kilometres between Kamakhya and Howrah Junction. It is expected to run at a speed of 180 kmph, thus reducing around 3 hours from the regular travel time between these distances. 

The exact travel time is not yet public.

How Much will the Vande Bharat Sleeper Coach Ticket Cost?

If you are planning to book tickets for the Vande Bharat sleeper train, here are some details on Vande Bharat sleeper coach ticket price: 

Howrah-Kamakhya Vande Bharat Sleeper Key Features

If you book your tickets for the brand new Vande Bharat sleeper train, here are some key features you may expect:

• Total Number of Coaches and Capacity

The Vande Bharat sleeper train will have a total of 16 coaches and can carry 823 total passengers. There will be 11 AC 3-Tier coaches, 4 AC-2 Tier coaches and only one AC-1 coach.

• Unique Safety Features

The brand new Vande Bharat sleeper train has unique safety features. Some safety features include the Kavach automatic train protection system, a modern driver cabin with advanced controls and emergency communication units for passengers. The train is designed for a safe and comfortable journey. 

• Key Routes 

The first Vande Bharat sleeper train route will cover some major stations in North Bengal, South Bengal, and Assam. Some key stations under Vande Bharat sleeper train route list include New Jalpaiguri, Raiganj, Kamakhya, Balurghat, Malda Town, and Alipurduar. 

• Unique Power

The Vande Bharat sleeper train is an Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) that makes the engine more powerful than other trains. This train is equipped for rapid acceleration that lets it run at a speed of 180 kmph.

• Reliance on Artificial Intelligence

The train relies on artificial intelligence (AI) for maintenance activities. An innovative digital portal will also be launched.

• Comfortable Seats 

The Vande Bharat sleeper train has comfortable seats that make even a long journey relaxing. Each seat is well-cushioned, and curtains allow privacy.

• Amenities for a Better Experience 

There are several amenities to make the journey better. Some common amenities include a separate charging point, a GPS-based audio-visual information system, WiFi, etc.

• Booking Policies

Bookings for the Vande Bharat sleeper train will start once the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) begins. Only fully confirmed tickets will be sold, and there is no policy for Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC). 

Conclusion

The new Vande Bharat sleeper train is being launched to make even long journeys comfortable and less time-consuming. The Railway Ministry has focused on developing a new framework to promote technology and innovation for such trains. To book your ticket for the Vande Bharat sleeper train, you can trust redRail for a hassle-free experience. 

FAQs 

• When is the Vande Bharat sleeper train launching?

The Vande Bharat sleeper train will be inaugurated on 17th January, 2026, by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Malda Town, West Bengal. 

• How many Vande Bharat sleeper trains are being launched?

As of now, one Vande Bharat sleeper train is being launched. However, the Railway Ministry is planning to launch 30 new trains by the end of 2026.

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

You can book Vande Bharat train tickets through the redRail mobile application or website.

• What is the average fare for Vande Bharat sleeper train tickets?

The average fare for Vande Bharat sleeper train tickets is ₹1,200 to ₹2,900. The fare for tickets varies, depending on the coach you choose.

• How many total Vande Bharat trains are operational in India?

As of January 2026, there are a total of 164 operational Vande Bharat trains in India.