Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper: New Overnight Luxury by Diwali 2026!
Commuters traveling between the national capital and the spiritual hub of Varanasi are set for a massive upgrade in travel comfort. Indian Railways is making significant strides toward launching a dedicated Vande Bharat Sleeper service on the Delhi-Varanasi route, with the goal of commencing operations around the Diwali festival in 2026.
High-Speed Luxury: Technical Progress and Launch Timeline
The upcoming 16-coach sleeper train has already secured necessary technical approvals. Currently, the Railway Board is managing the strategic groundwork required to bring this service to life. While the official train number and fare details are yet to be announced, the project is moving toward a critical milestone: trial runs are expected to begin in September 2026. The final rollout awaits the green light from the Prime Minister's Office.
Premium Coach Layout and Passenger Capacity
Designed to provide a seamless overnight experience, the train will accommodate a total of 823 passengers. To ensure a variety of travel options, the 16-coach configuration includes:
- 11 AC Three-Tier coaches for standard premium travel.
- 4 AC Two-Tier coaches for enhanced space and comfort.
- 1 First AC coach for the ultimate luxury experience.
Mission Raftaar: Redefining Travel Speed
Under the ambitious 'Mission Raftaar' initiative,