The much-anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is set to launch on January 17, 2026. This marks the introduction of India’s very first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, which will run between Guwahati in Assam and Howrah in West Bengal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially launch this train. The train will feature 16 coaches, comprising 11 three-tier AC coaches, 4 two-tier AC coaches, and 1 first-class AC coach, which will accommodate approximately 823 passengers. And now, the fare details are out, so here’s everything you need to know!
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Fare Pricing
The fare structure for the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains is detailed as follows: for the journey between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya), passengers will pay INR 2,299 for a Third AC ticket, INR 2,970 for a Second AC ticket, and INR 3,640 for a First AC ticket.
When traveling from Howrah the fares are INR 1,334 for Third AC, INR 1,724 for Second AC, and INR 2,113 for First AC. For the trip from Howrah to Malda Town, the costs are INR 960 for Third AC, INR 1,240 for Second AC, and INR 1,520 for First AC.
On the route from Kamakhya to Malda Town, fares are set at INR 1,522 for Third AC, INR 1,965 for Second AC, and INR 2,409 for First AC. The journey from Kamakhya to New Jalpaiguri will cost passengers INR 962 for a Third AC ticket, INR 1,243 for a Second AC ticket, and INR 1,524 for a First AC ticket.
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Additionally, the minimum fares for journeys up to 400 km are INR 960 for Third AC, INR 1,240 for Second AC, and INR 1,520 for First AC, with a 5% GST applicable on all ticket prices.
नए सस्पेंशन के साथ पूरी तरह नई डिजाइन की बोगी तैयार की गई है। डिजाइन के पैरामीटर्स को एक नए स्तर पर ले जाया गया है। इसकी एर्गोनॉमिक डिजाइन वाले इंटीरियर्स और लैडर्स- हर जगह सेफ्टी और सिक्योरिटी के लिए विशेष पैरामीटर्स रखे गए हैं: माननीय रेल मंत्री श्री @AshwiniVaishnaw जी pic.twitter.com/K2bKvAhNuB
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) January 1, 2026
What To Know About The Booking Guidelines For Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
These sleeper trains come with new reservation guidelines that ensure a streamlined booking experience. There will be no Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) or waiting lists; only confirmed tickets will be available. All berths will be released from the start of the Advance Reservation Period (ARP), with designated reservation quotas for senior citizens, women, persons with disabilities, and specific duty passes.
Bookings for these sleeper trains will prioritize digital payments to facilitate quicker refunds in case of cancellations. Passengers opting for window purchases are encouraged to pay digitally, while traditional payment methods will follow regular refund processes.
For added convenience, lower berths may be reserved for eligible travelers, depending on availability. Specifically, parents with children who do not need separate berths may be allocated lower berths when possible.
What Are The Features
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train boasts several impressive features, including a semi-high-speed capability with a design speed of up to 180 km/h.
It offers ergonomically designed berths that provide enhanced cushioning for passenger comfort, along with automatic vestibule doors to facilitate smooth movement throughout the train.
The ride quality is significantly improved due to superior suspension systems and noise reduction measures. Safety is a priority, as the train is equipped with KAVACH technology, a driver cab featuring advanced controls, and an emergency talk-back unit that connects passengers with the Train Manager or Loco Pilot.
The train also includes CCTVs in all coaches for enhanced security, along with a state-of-the-art aerosol-based fire detection and suppression system.
Additional features cater to accessibility for Divyangjans, and the train maintains high sanitation standards through its innovative disinfectant technology, all wrapped in an aerodynamic exterior with automatic passenger doors.
