Varanasi-Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper to Launch Before Diwali!
The Varanasi-Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper will launch before Diwali 2026, offering luxury overnight travel with 823 seats.
Indian Railways is gearing up to transform overnight travel between the spiritual heart of India and the national capital. The highly anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper train service is set to debut on the Varanasi-Delhi route, providing a luxurious and efficient way to travel during the upcoming festive season.
A Festive Gift: Launching Before Diwali 2026
In a major boost to connectivity, the country's second Vande Bharat Sleeper service is tentatively scheduled for its grand inauguration on October 31, 2026. This timing is strategic, aiming to provide commuters with a premium travel option just before the Diwali celebrations.
The inaugural ceremony is expected to be a prestigious event, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw likely to flag off the service. On its much-anticipated first day, the train will make its debut departure from Banaras Railway Station at 11:00 AM.
Route, Timings, and Connectivity
Designed specifically for overnight comfort, the new service will operate six days a week, excluding Saturdays. Here is the proposed operational schedule for the two services:
Train Number 27421 (Varanasi to New Delhi)
- Departure from Varanasi: 08:50 PM
- Prayagraj Junction: 10:35 PM
- Kanpur Central: 12:40 AM
- Arrival at New Delhi: 05:55 AM
Train Number 27422 (New Delhi to Varanasi)
- Departure from New Delhi: 09:40 PM
- Prayagraj Junction: 04:45 AM
- Arrival at Varanasi: 06:45 AM
Luxury on Tracks: Coach Configuration
The 16-coach rake, which has already arrived at Varanasi on platform number 4, is built to accommodate 823 passengers in high comfort. The train features a diverse range of sleeping accommodations:
- AC First Class: 1 coach
- AC Two-Tier: 4 coaches
- AC Three-Tier: 11 coaches
Estimated Fares and Booking Details
While the official fare chart is yet to be released by the authorities, industry experts have provided preliminary estimates to help passengers plan their journeys:
- AC 3-Tier: Approximately ₹2,000
- AC 2-Tier: Approximately ₹2,500
- AC First Class: Approximately ₹3,000
Travel enthusiasts and commuters can mark their calendars, as passenger bookings for this premium route are scheduled to open on October 27, 2026.