Launch of India's First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Key Features and Schedule

On January 17, 2026, India unveiled its first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, enhancing connectivity between Howrah and Kamakhya. This modern train boasts numerous features, including air conditioning, advanced safety systems, and a swift travel time of 14 hours for the 958 km journey. With a total capacity of 823 passengers across various classes, it promises comfort and efficiency. The train operates six days a week, with specific timings and a clear fare structure. Notably, it eliminates the RAC and waiting list system, ensuring only confirmed tickets are available. Read on to learn more about this exciting development in Indian rail travel.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 17, 2026, 11:07 IST

Introduction

The inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper Train was officially launched on January 17, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off this service from the Malda Town railway station in West Bengal. This train will operate on a 958-kilometer route connecting Howrah (Kolkata) to Kamakhya (Guwahati), enhancing travel comfort and speed between Eastern India and the Northeast.

Key Features

This fully air-conditioned sleeper train is designed for semi-high speed, with a maximum speed of 180 km/h (operational speed may vary). It covers the distance of 958 km in just 14 hours, which is three hours faster than previous services.

The train consists of 16 coaches, including 11 Third AC (611 berths), 4 Second AC (188 berths), and 1 First AC (24 berths), accommodating a total of 823 passengers.

Modern amenities include automatic sliding doors, a KAVACH safety system, CCTV in every coach, emergency communication systems, bio-vacuum toilets, touch-free fittings, fire detection systems, comfortable cushioned berths, a new ladder design for upper berths, regional catering (Bengali-Assamese cuisine), and advanced coach disinfection technology.

The train features driving cabins at both ends, eliminating the need for reversal and allowing for quick turnaround times.

Timings and Schedule

Train number 27575 (from Howrah to Kamakhya) departs at 6:20 PM and arrives the next day at 8:20 AM.

Train number 27576 (from Kamakhya to Howrah) leaves at 6:15 PM and reaches Howrah at 8:15 AM.

This service will run six days a week, excluding Thursdays or Wednesdays (please check for details).

Major stops include Bandel, Navadvipa Dham, Katwa, Azimganj, New Farakka, Malda Town, Aluabari Road, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), Jalpaiguri Road, New Cooch Behar, New Alipurduar, New Bongaigaon, and Rangiya.

Fare Structure

The indicative one-way fares from Howrah to Kamakhya are as follows (plus 5% GST):

Third AC (3AC): ₹2,299 – ₹2,400
Second AC (2AC): ₹2,970 – ₹3,100
First AC (1AC): ₹3,640 – ₹3,800

For other segments, the fares are:

Howrah to Malda Town: 3AC ₹960, 2AC ₹1,240, 1AC ₹1,520
Howrah to New Jalpaiguri: 3AC ₹1,334, 2AC ₹1,724, 1AC ₹2,113
Kamakhya to Malda Town: 3AC ₹1,522, 2AC ₹1,965, 1AC ₹2,409

The minimum chargeable distance is equivalent to ₹400, even for shorter journeys.

Notably, there will be no RAC or waiting list; only confirmed tickets will be available, eliminating the hassle of RAC.