A new Vande Bharat Sleeper train service is anticipated to commence operations between New Delhi and Varanasi Cantt from October 31. This premium overnight journey is expected to significantly reduce travel time, offering a faster and more comfortable option for passengers ahead of the busy Diwali and Chhath festive season.
Indian Railways has not yet released the final official timetable and fare chart, but reports suggest the service could be inaugurated by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This new route will connect the capital with the holy city of Varanasi, running approximately 966 km via key junctions like Prayagraj and Kanpur Central.
Route and Provisional Schedule
The proposed Vande Bharat Sleeper is planned to operate six days a week, excluding Saturdays. Provisional timings indicate an overnight journey of about nine hours. Train No. 27421 is expected to depart Varanasi at 8:50 PM, stopping at Prayagraj Junction (10:35 PM-10:40 PM) and Kanpur Central (12:40 AM-12:45 AM) before arriving in New Delhi at 5:55 AM.
In the reverse direction, Train No. 27422 is likely to leave New Delhi at 9:40 PM, with stops at Kanpur Central (2:25 AM-2:30 AM) and Prayagraj Junction (4:45 AM-4:50 AM), reaching Varanasi by 6:45 AM. It is important to note that these timings and stoppages are currently provisional and await official confirmation from the Railways.
Coaches, Capacity, and Expected Fares
This will be India's second Vande Bharat Sleeper service, following the Guwahati–Kolkata route. The train is designed with 16 coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier, and one First AC coach, providing a total capacity of 825 berths. This configuration aims to cater to a wide range of travellers seeking enhanced comfort and speed.
While final ticket prices are pending, early estimates suggest fares could be based on distance and travel class. Provisional calculations indicate AC 3-tier tickets might range from ₹2,200-₹2,400, AC 2-tier from ₹3,000-₹3,200, and First AC from ₹3,800-₹4,100. Passengers are advised to await the official IRCTC fare list before making travel plans, as other estimates suggest slightly lower indicative fares.
Ticket bookings are expected to open around October 27 through IRCTC and railway counters once the final schedule and fares are officially notified. This new service is poised to alleviate pressure on existing overnight trains during the peak festive season, offering pilgrims, tourists, and business travellers a modern, efficient, and comfortable alternative.