Vande Bharat Sleeper: Varanasi to New Delhi High-Speed Launch!
PM Modi to inaugurate India's 2nd Vande Bharat Sleeper between Varanasi and New Delhi. Check new timings and luxury amenities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to unveil a major milestone in Indian rail travel with the inauguration of the nation's second Vande Bharat Sleeper train. This new high-speed link will connect Varanasi and New Delhi, offering passengers a luxurious and efficient overnight journey. The launch highlights ongoing efforts to bolster rail connectivity within the Prime Minister's own parliamentary constituency.
Inaugural Run and Regular Timings
The grand launch ceremony will feature prominent leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The inaugural service, designated as Train 0527, is scheduled to depart from Varanasi at 4:15 PM on October 31, 2026, arriving in New Delhi at 2:00 AM on November 1.
Following the launch, the regular schedule for the service will be implemented as follows:
- Train 27421 (Varanasi to New Delhi): Departs Varanasi at 8:50 PM and arrives in New Delhi at 6:10 AM.
- Train 27422 (New Delhi to Varanasi): Departs New Delhi at 9:40 PM and arrives in Varanasi at 7:10 AM.
The service will operate six days a week. Passengers should note that the Varanasi departure is suspended on Fridays, and the New Delhi departure is suspended on Saturdays.
World-Class Amenities and Speed
Designed for both speed and comfort, the 16-coach air-conditioned rake is capable of reaching speeds up to 160 kmph. Covering a distance of approximately 759 km, this service is expected to reduce travel time by up to 55 minutes compared to the current Shiv Ganga Express.
The train features a total of 823 berths, distributed across various premium classes:
- First AC: 1 coach
- Second AC: 4 coaches
- Third AC: 11 coaches
To ensure a premium experience, the rake is equipped with modern amenities including Wi-Fi, touch-free bio-toilets, USB charging ports, and hot-water showers available in the First AC coaches.
Advanced Safety Systems
Safety remains a core priority for this new high-speed fleet. The Vande Bharat Sleeper is equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure a secure journey for all passengers, including:
- Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS)
- CCTV Surveillance
- Smoke Detection Sensors