The pricing makes it a more affordable alternative to air travel, which often costs INR 6,000–INR 10,000 on the corridor.
India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Run Between Guwahati and Kolkata: Fare and Launch Timeline Revealed
On Thursday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train is now scheduled to operate between Guwahati in Assam and Kolkata (Howrah) in West Bengal after Indian Railways has completed its testing, trials and safety certification. The new service marks a major expansion of the popular Vande Bharat fleet into overnight long-distance travel, aiming to provide faster, safer and more comfortable journeys compared with conventional trains on routes over 1,000 km.
Vaishnaw said the inaugural run will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the next 15–20 days, with preparations underway for the official launch. The minister described the sleeper train as a significant evolution in passenger rail services, noting the overwhelming public demand following the success of Vande Bharat chair-car services.
According to information shared by the Railway Minister, fares on the Guwahati–Howrah route are set at:
- INR 2,300 for AC 3-tier
- INR 3,000 for AC 2-tier
- INR 3,600 for the First AC
The pricing makes it a more affordable alternative to air travel, which often costs INR 6,000–INR 10,000 on the corridor.
According to railway officials, the 16-coach sleeper rake features modern amenities, including upgraded suspension, automatic doors, modern toilets, CCTV surveillance and advanced KAVACH safety systems, aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and security. The successful trials have cleared the way for the service rollout, reinforcing Indian Railways’ focus on innovation and better long-distance travel options.
Source: Hindustan Times
