India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train — A New Era in Overnight Travel

On January 17, 2026, India reached a major milestone in railway modernization as Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially flagged off the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, a premium, fully air-conditioned overnight service running between Howrah (West Bengal) and Kamakhya (Guwahati, Assam). The launch event took place at Malda Town Railway Station, underscoring the government’s commitment to boosting connectivity between the eastern and northeastern regions of India.

Route, Train Number, and Stops

The new service designated as Train No. 27575/27576. It connects two major Indian cities at opposite ends of a key corridor. Departing from Howrah Junction in the evening, it reaches Kamakhya Junction the next morning, making strategic halts along the way.

Major Scheduled Halts

Bandel Junction, Nabadwip Dham, Katwa Junction, Azimganj, New Farakka Junction, Malda Town, Aluabari Road, New Jalpaiguri, Jalpaiguri Road, New Cooch Behar, New Alipurduar, New Bongaigaon, Rangiya

(Note: Many stops have brief halt durations to maintain schedule efficiency)

This route covers diverse terrain and provides seamless connectivity to passengers across West Bengal and Assam, significantly enhancing rail access for long-distance travellers.

Timings and Schedule

One of the standout features of this new service is its efficient overnight schedule:

• Howrah → Kamakhya (Train 27575)
  • Departure: 6:20 PM
  • Arrival: 8:20 AM (next day)
  • Duration: 14 hours
• Kamakhya → Howrah (Train 27576)
  • Departure: 6:15 PM
  • Arrival: 8:15 AM (next day)
  (Train runs six days a week; it won’t run from Kamakhya on Wednesdays and from Howrah on Thursdays)

This overnight schedule fits perfectly for passengers looking to travel comfortably and arrive refreshed by morning, ideal for both business and leisure travel.

Fare Structure and Classes

The Vande Bharat Sleeper offers modern comforts at competitive fares, designed to keep premium overnight travel accessible to many.

Fares for Key Segments (One-Way)

Howrah ↔ Kamakhya:

• AC 3-Tier: ₹2,299*
• AC 2-Tier: ₹2,970*
• First AC: ₹3,640*
  (GST applicable extra)

Intermediate Fares (Howrah side)

• To New Jalpaiguri: ₹1,334 (3AC), ₹1,724 (2AC), ₹2,113 (1AC)
• To Malda Town: ₹960 (3AC), ₹1,240 (2AC), ₹1,520 (1AC)

On the Assam side

• Kamakhya ↔ Malda Town: ₹1,522 (3AC), ₹1,965 (2AC), ₹2,409 (1AC)
• Kamakhya ↔ New Jalpaiguri: ₹962 (3AC), ₹1,243 (2AC), ₹1,524 (1AC)

A noteworthy policy: this train will not offer RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) or waiting list tickets, only fully confirmed berths from the moment bookings open.

Modern Features and Amenities

The Vande Bharat Sleeper is not just about speed, it focuses on comfort, safety, and onboard experience:

• 16 air-conditioned sleeper coaches (11 AC 3-Tier, 4 AC 2-Tier, 1 First AC) with capacity for 823 passengers.
• Well-padded berths, improved access ladders, and bio-vacuum toilets across coaches.
• KAVACH anti-collision system and regenerative braking for enhanced safety and energy efficiency.
• Integrated passenger info systems, CCTV surveillance, and modular pantry units.
• Regional cuisine service – Bengali specialties on Howrah departures and Assamese delicacies on Kamakhya departures.

Why This Train Matters

This inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper marks a transformational leap in long-distance rail travel by combining speed, comfort, and overnight convenience. It offers passengers a premium alternative to existing long-haul trains, elevating the travel experience between the eastern and northeastern states.

With its introduction, Indian Railways continues to modernize services, expand connectivity, and offer travelers more choices, just in time for 2026’s travel demands.

Food & Meal Ordering with TravelKhana on Vande Bharat Trains

While travelling on the Trains, passengers no longer need to rely solely on pantry food or carry meals from home. With TravelKhana, you can enjoy fresh, hygienic, restaurant-quality meals delivered directly to your seat at selected stations en route. If you’re traveling via train and need food, simply visit www.travelkhana.com or download the TravelKhana App, enter your PNR number, choose from top food brands and local restaurants, and schedule delivery at your preferred station.

TravelKhana offers a wide variety of options including North Indian, South Indian, Jain meals, snacks, sweets, and beverages, making overnight journeys more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, TravelKhana ensures timely delivery, quality packaging, and a hassle-free food ordering experience on premium trains like the Vande Bharat Sleeper.