The much-anticipated moment has finally come! India has officially launched its first Vande Bharat sleeper train, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17th January, Saturday. This innovative train service, which operates on the Howrah-Kamakhya route, offers not only a comfortable overnight journey but also an enticing dining experience on board. Developed by Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) in collaboration with Mayfair Spring Valley Resort from Guwahati, the menu offers a delightful mix of Bengali and Assamese culinary delights.
India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Menu Offering: What All Is Included
India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper train menu, passengers can enjoy Bengali favorites such as Basanti Pulao, Chholar Dal, Moong Dal, Chhanar (paneer), and Dhokar, all crafted to be light and easy on the stomach for nighttime travel. Assamese offerings include Joha rice, Mati Mohor, Masoor Dal, and seasonal vegetable bhaji, highlighting the region’s fresh ingredients and gentle flavors. Desserts available on the menu feature traditional treats like Sandesh, Narikol Barfi (coconut fudge), and Rasgulla, aiming to deliver a genuine regional dining experience that celebrates the food culture of Northeast India.
Enjoy regional cuisine onboard the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train.
A new initiative by Bharatiya Railways. pic.twitter.com/IkI8yPUbHw
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Ratan Sharma, the Managing Director of Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, highlighted that the onboard dining experience aims to transcend standard catering. He noted that the menu features carefully selected dishes that celebrate genuine regional flavors and culinary traditions while also aligning with contemporary dining preferences.
Covering roughly 1,000 km between Howrah and Kamakhya, the train is equipped with 16 fully air-conditioned coaches, accommodating 823 passengers. It boasts features such as ergonomic berths, automatic doors, noise-reduction systems, advanced suspension, and ‘Kavach’ anti-collision technology. With a speed of 130 km/h, this train improves connectivity between eastern India and the Northeastern states.
Read our detailed guide on the Vande Bharat Sleeper train here.
