Vande Bharat Sleeper: Varanasi-Delhi & Bengaluru-Mumbai Launches!
Indian Railways to launch Varanasi-New Delhi and Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper services in late 2026 with premium amenities.
Indian Railways is set to revolutionize long-distance travel with the upcoming launch of two highly anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper services. Scheduled to begin operations in late 2026, these premium trains aim to provide a luxury experience that bridges the gap between rail and air travel.
Premium Routes and Launch Schedules
The rollout of these new sleeper services will take place over two days in late 2026, connecting major urban hubs with high-speed, high-comfort connectivity.
- Varanasi to New Delhi: This service is expected to be flagged off on October 31, 2026. The launch event is anticipated to be graced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
- Bengaluru to Mumbai: Following closely, the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper is scheduled to commence operations on November 1, 2026. The launch coincides with the celebrations of Karnataka Rajyotsava.
Luxury Amenities and Advanced Technology
Designed specifically for long-distance journeys, these Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are packed with modern features to ensure passenger comfort and safety.
The trains will consist of 16 fully air-conditioned coaches, offering a total capacity of 823 berths. Passengers can choose from various accommodation levels, including:
- AC First Class
- AC Two-tier
- AC Three-tier
To elevate the travel experience, the catering services are expected to be of a very high standard. With industry leaders like Taj SATS reportedly involved, the onboard dining is aimed at providing a quality of food comparable to in-flight meals.
Safety and hygiene have also been prioritized. The rakes will be equipped with the indigenous Kavach train protection system to prevent accidents and feature aircraft-style bio-vacuum toilets for enhanced cleanliness.
Strict 'Zero-WL' Boarding Policy
In an effort to maintain premium service standards and ensure passenger comfort, Indian Railways has mandated a strict 'Zero-WL / Zero-RAC' policy for these specific sleeper trains. This means that only passengers holding confirmed berths will be permitted to board the train, ensuring that every traveler has a dedicated space for their journey.