Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Starts Operations
The Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express has launched with competitive fares and modern amenities like KAVACH safety.
The long-awaited Varanasi–New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express has officially entered regular commercial service. Commencing on Monday, November 2, 2026, the new service aims to revolutionize overnight travel between these two major hubs by offering a blend of high-speed comfort and budget-friendly pricing.
A Budget-Friendly Alternative to Premium Trains
One of the most striking features of this new service is its competitive fare structure. Designed to compete directly with premium trains like the Rajdhani and Tejas Express, the Vande Bharat Sleeper offers luxury at a more accessible cost for many travelers.
The ticket pricing for the Vande Bharat Sleeper is set as follows:
- Third AC (3A): ₹1,915
- Second AC (2A): ₹2,470
- First AC (1A): ₹3,030
For comparison, the Dibrugarh Rajdhani typically commands fares between ₹2,100 and ₹2,400, making this sleeper service a highly attractive option for those looking to balance cost and comfort.
Timings and Weekly Schedule
The service operates six days a week, with specific days of rest for each direction to ensure smooth operations. The schedule is as follows:
- Train 27421 (Varanasi to New Delhi): Departs Varanasi at 8:50 PM and reaches New Delhi at 6:10 AM. This service does not operate on Fridays.
- Train 27422 (New Delhi to Varanasi): Departs New Delhi at 9:40 PM and arrives in Varanasi at 7:10 AM. This service does not operate on Saturdays.
The train will provide convenient access to several key cities, with intermediate stoppages at Prayagraj, Kanpur Central, Aligarh, and Ghaziabad.
Modern Amenities and Enhanced Safety
Comprising 16 coaches with a total capacity of 823 passengers, the train is equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Safety is at the forefront of this service, featuring the advanced KAVACH safety system to ensure secure journeys.
Passengers can enjoy several modern amenities, including:
- Automatic exterior doors for improved security.
- Bio-vacuum toilets for superior hygiene.
- Hot-water shower facilities, exclusively available for First AC passengers.
- A 'Zero-Waitlist' and 'Zero-RAC' policy, which guarantees that only confirmed tickets are issued to travelers.
The service was formally flagged off on October 31, 2026, in a ceremony attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, marking a significant milestone for the region's rail connectivity.