Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper to Launch Nov 1
The new Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express launches Nov 1, 2026, cutting travel time to 16 hours. Check the route, fare, and schedule.
The Indian Railway Board has officially approved the introduction of the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, a premium semi-high-speed rail service. Scheduled to launch on November 1, 2026, the inaugural ceremony is expected to be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The launch coincides with the celebration of Karnataka Rajyotsava, as noted by Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, V. Somanna.
The decision to roll out this new service follows a critical review meeting conducted on February 16, 2026. To facilitate the launch, a formal notification was issued on October 29, 2026, to the General Managers of the South Western, South Coast, South Central, and Central Railways.
Faster Travel Between SMVT Bengaluru and CSMT Mumbai
Operating under the South Western Railway (SWR) zone, this new service aims to drastically reduce travel time between Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) Bengaluru and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) Mumbai. While existing trains on this route typically require between 22 to 24 hours, the Vande Bharat Sleeper is expected to complete the journey in approximately 16 hours.
The train will operate at a maximum speed of 110 km/h. While it has previously undergone trials reaching speeds of 180 km/h, its operational speed for this route will be set at 110 km/h to ensure efficiency and safety. As the second AC sleeper semi-high-speed train in India, it is set to become the most premium offering under the South Western Railway.
Train Configuration and Premium Amenities
The service will utilize two 16-coach trainsets, providing a total capacity of 823 berths. Developed by BEML using advanced technology from the Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the train is designed for high-end passenger comfort. The coach configuration includes:
- 11 AC three-tier coaches
- 4 AC two-tier coaches
- 1 AC first-class coach
Passengers can expect a premium experience, with the tentative fare for 3AC estimated at approximately ₹3,000, which includes onboard meals. However, travelers should note that there will be no provisions for RAC or Tatkal tickets, and a minimum chargeable distance of 400 km has been established for the service.
Detailed Schedule and Route Information
The Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper will operate six days a week. The service follows a specific schedule to ensure connectivity:
- Train 27652 (SMVT Bengaluru to CSMT Mumbai): Departs SMVT Bengaluru at 7:45 PM and arrives in Mumbai at 11:55 AM the following day. Note: This train will not operate from Bengaluru on Mondays.
- Train 27651 (CSMT Mumbai to SMVT Bengaluru): Departs CSMT Mumbai at 8:10 PM and arrives in Bengaluru at 12:00 PM the next day. Note: This train will not operate from Mumbai on Tuesdays.
Major Stops Along the Route
The train will provide connectivity to several key stations, making it a vital link for commuters and travelers across the region. The scheduled stops include:
- Anantapur
- Guntakal
- Raichur
- Yadgir
- Kalaburagi
- Solapur
- Pune
- Kalyan