Experience Regional Flavors on India's First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

A Culinary Journey on the Howrah–Kamakhya Vande Bharat Sleeper

Kolkata, Jan 18: Passengers aboard India's inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, the Howrah–Kamakhya route, will enjoy a unique culinary experience featuring a menu inspired by the rich flavors of Bengal and Assam.

This premium overnight service will present a variety of vegetarian options, including basanti pulao, cholar and moong dal, chanar and dhokar dishes, Assamese joha rice, mati mohor, and masoor dal, complemented by seasonal vegetable bhajis.

For dessert, travelers can indulge in traditional sweets like sandesh, coconut burfi, and rasgulla.

Officials have stated that the menu is tailored for overnight journeys, focusing on mild spices, seasonal produce, and traditional cooking techniques, all while preserving the authenticity of regional tastes.

The emphasis on lighter vegetarian meals aims to enhance passenger comfort during long-distance night travel.

On Saturday, Mayfair Spring Valley Resort in Guwahati announced its partnership with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) to serve as the official caterer for this train.

The hospitality group expressed that this collaboration aims to enrich the onboard dining experience by incorporating local culinary traditions into the travel experience.

Ratan Sharma, managing director of the resort, remarked, “Every dish has been thoughtfully curated to showcase the authentic flavors and culinary heritage of Bengal and Assam while aligning with contemporary dining standards.”

He further noted that the goal is to provide passengers with “a sense of place and an immersive experience through food.”

The Howrah–Kamakhya Vande Bharat Sleeper will cover nearly 1,000 kilometers, linking eastern India with the Northeast.

This train features 16 fully air-conditioned sleeper coaches, including First AC, AC 2-tier, and AC 3-tier, accommodating approximately 823 passengers.

As a premium overnight rail service, it boasts modern amenities such as ergonomic berths, automatic doors, advanced suspension systems, and noise-reduction features.

Additionally, it is equipped with the Kavach anti-collision system and can operate at speeds of up to 130 km per hour.

Railway officials anticipate that this new service will significantly cut travel time between eastern India and the Northeast while enhancing passenger comfort.

With its upgraded facilities and regionally inspired cuisine, the Howrah–Kamakhya Vande Bharat Sleeper is set to become a flagship overnight travel option within India's growing semi-high-speed rail network.