India gets its first Vande Bharat sleeper train | Check ticket prices, route, food menu and key features

New Vande Bharat sleeper train

• India launches first Vande Bharat sleeper train from Howrah to Kamakhya Junction
• Train offers airline-like comfort, safety features, and regional cuisine onboard
• Service cuts travel time by 2.5 hours and fares start at Rs 2,300 for 3AC

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India has rolled out a new chapter in rail travel with the launch of its first Vande Bharat sleeper service, a move aimed at making long overnight journeys faster and more comfortable.

The new train was flagged off on Saturday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking the debut of a high-speed sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat trains.

New Vande Bharat sleeper train: Route

The service will operate between Howrah, near Kolkata, and Kamakhya Junction in Guwahati, creating a direct overnight rail link between West Bengal and Assam.

The Prime Minister flagged off the inaugural run from Malda Town in West Bengal, while the return Guwahati–Howrah service was launched virtually from the same venue. The route holds political significance as both states are heading into elections.

'Airline-like travel experience at economical fares'

According to officials, the train has been developed to match the expectations of modern travellers. As stated by the Prime Minister’s Office, “Developed to meet the growing transportation needs of modern India, the fully air-conditioned Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to offer passengers an airline-like travel experience at economical fares. It will make long-distance journeys faster, safer, and more convenient.”

The statement further noted that the service will cut travel time on the Howrah–Guwahati (Kamakhya) corridor by roughly two and a half hours, adding momentum to tourism and religious travel.

Vande Bharat sleeper train features: Speed, comfort, hygiene, safety

While the sleeper train has been engineered for a top speed of 180 kmph, officials expect it to run at an operational speed of about 120–130 kmph.

Passenger comfort has been prioritised, with ergonomically designed berths and a world-class suspension system meant to ensure a smooth ride throughout the night.

Hygiene measures have also received attention. The coaches are equipped with advanced disinfectant technology capable of eliminating 99 percent of germs, and passengers will be provided with refreshed linens and towels.

On the safety front, the indigenous Kavach automatic train protection system has been installed, complemented by comprehensive onboard surveillance. Automatic sliding doors will remain shut during the journey and open only at stations.

Vande Bharat sleeper train catering: Regional flavours

Catering is included in the ticket price and mirrors premium airline-style service, with a focus on regional flavours.

Travellers from Kamakhya to Howrah will be served Assamese cuisine, while those heading in the opposite direction will be offered Bengali dishes.

Vande Bharat sleeper train: Ticket prices

The train offers three classes of accommodation. Fares are expected to range from around Rs 2,300 for 3AC, about Rs 3,000 for 2AC, and approximately Rs 3,600 for 1AC on a one-way journey.