Banaras-New Delhi Sleeper Vande Bharat to Launch Oct 2026
Indian Railways to launch Sleeper Vande Bharat Express between Banaras and New Delhi on October 31, 2026. Check the new schedule and fare details here.
Indian Railways is set to transform overnight travel between Uttar Pradesh and the national capital with the upcoming launch of the Sleeper Vande Bharat Express. Connecting Banaras and New Delhi, this premium service is scheduled to be flagged off on October 31, 2026.
The high-profile launch is expected to be attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, marking a major milestone for the region's connectivity.
Premium Overnight Comfort and Speed
As only the second Sleeper Vande Bharat service in India, this train is designed to provide a luxurious and efficient transit experience. The rake will consist of 16 modern LHB AC coaches, specifically configured to cater to various passenger needs:
- One First AC coach for maximum privacy and luxury.
- Four Second AC coaches for enhanced comfort.
- Eleven Third AC coaches to accommodate a larger number of travelers.
With a total capacity of approximately 823 passengers and a maximum speed of 160 kmph, the train aims to provide a swift, high-speed alternative to existing overnight services.
Route, Timings, and Frequency
The new service will serve key transit hubs, including Prayagraj Junction and Kanpur Central, with plans to potentially include Aligarh Junction in the future. The train will operate six days a week, with specific exclusions: it will not depart from New Delhi on Fridays and will not depart from Varanasi on Saturdays.
Train 27421: Banaras to New Delhi
This service is designed for travelers looking to reach the capital early in the morning:
- Departure from Banaras: 8:50 PM
- Arrival at Prayagraj Junction: 10:35 PM (Departure at 10:40 PM)
- Arrival at Kanpur Central: Approximately 12:40 AM
- Arrival at New Delhi: 5:55 AM
Train 27422: New Delhi to Banaras
The return journey provides a convenient overnight option for those heading back to Uttar Pradesh:
- Departure from New Delhi: 9:40 PM
- Arrival at Prayagraj Junction: 4:45 AM (Departure at 4:50 AM)
- Arrival at Banaras: 6:45 AM
Booking, Fares, and Important Rules
Passengers can begin planning their trips as ticket reservations are slated to open on October 27, 2026. Regarding the cost, the estimated fare for AC 3-tier travel is approximately ₹2.40 per kilometer, excluding GST.
Important Note: Railway officials have confirmed that this specific service will not provide RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) tickets. Passengers are encouraged to book confirmed berths well in advance to ensure a smooth journey.