Indian Railways is considering another Sleeper Vande Bharat service between New Delhi and Varanasi, which could provide passengers with an overnight travel option on one of the country’s busiest rail routes. The proposed train is expected to operate via Prayagraj and Kanpur, with railway officials reportedly targeting a launch around Diwali, subject to successful trials and the necessary operational approvals.
The Railway Ministry said in April 2026 that more than 73 lakh passengers had travelled on the New Delhi-Varanasi route, making it the busiest Vande Bharat route. However, the Railway Board has not yet officially announced the train number, ticket fares, final timetable or confirmed date for regular operations.
Proposed Delhi-Varanasi Sleeper Vande Bharat Timings
According to the schedule reported by railway officials, the proposed Sleeper Vande Bharat could leave Varanasi Cantt at around 9:20 PM. It is expected to reach Prayagraj at approximately 10:45 PM and pass through Kanpur Central at around 12:35 AM before reaching New Delhi at about 5 AM the following morning.
On the return journey, the train is proposed to depart from New Delhi at around 9:20 PM and reach Varanasi at approximately 5 AM the next day.
These timings are provisional and could be revised after trial runs and operational clearances.
The proposed service may operate at speeds of around 130 kmph to 160 kmph, depending on track conditions and progress under the Mission Raftaar initiative.
16-Coach Sleeper Train With 823 Seats
As reported by The Times of India, the proposed Sleeper Vande Bharat is expected to comprise 16 coaches with a total passenger capacity of 823. The proposed coach configuration includes 11 AC 3-tier coaches, four AC 2-tier coaches and one First AC coach.
The sleeper configuration is intended specifically for overnight journeys, allowing passengers to travel in sleeping berths instead of conventional seating. Northern Railway is reportedly expected to handle the primary maintenance of the proposed service.
Modern Safety and Passenger Features
The Sleeper Vande Bharat has been developed with several features aimed at improving safety and passenger convenience during long-distance journeys. These include KAVACH-related safety provisions, fire barrier doors, automatic plug doors and CCTV cameras inside the coaches.
The train is also expected to have emergency talk-back units and semi-permanent couplers equipped with anti-climbers. Specially designed lavatories for Divyangjan passengers are provided in the driving coaches.
Ergonomically designed ladders for the upper berths are another feature intended to make it easier for passengers to access sleeping berths.
Designed for Comfortable Overnight Travel
Unlike conventional Vande Bharat trains designed primarily around seating, the Sleeper Vande Bharat is configured for overnight travel. Its interiors include sleeping berths, modern fittings and features designed around the needs of passengers travelling through the night.
The berth ladders have been designed with passenger accessibility in mind, while the sleeper arrangement allows travellers to settle into their berths after boarding and continue their journey overnight.
Modern toilet facilities and CCTV cameras across the coaches are also part of the passenger amenities, supporting hygiene, convenience and onboard security.
The proposed Delhi-Varanasi Sleeper Vande Bharat is part of Indian Railways’ broader expansion of sleeper services. However, the train number, fares, final timetable and launch date will be confirmed only after an official announcement from the Railway Board.