Indian Railways is preparing to introduce a Sleeper Vande Bharat Express between Varanasi and New Delhi, offering passengers a modern overnight travel option. Ticket bookings are expected to begin on October 27, 2026, ahead of the proposed launch on October 31.
The new service is expected to benefit passengers travelling between Uttar Pradesh and the national capital, particularly those who prefer to travel overnight and reach their destination the following morning. The final operating schedule and fares remain subject to official confirmation.
When Will Ticket Booking Begin?
According to media reports, reservations for the Varanasi–New Delhi Sleeper Vande Bharat are expected to open on October 27. The train is proposed to begin operations on October 31, although passengers should check the official railway reservation system for confirmation before making travel plans.
The train is expected to operate six days a week. The proposed schedule excludes Saturdays for the Varanasi-to-Delhi service and Fridays for the Delhi-to-Varanasi service.
Varanasi–Delhi Sleeper Vande Bharat: Proposed Timings
The train is expected to operate under train numbers 27421 and 27422.
Varanasi to New Delhi — Train 27421
- Departure from Varanasi: 8:50 PM
- Arrival at Prayagraj: 10:35 PM
- Departure from Prayagraj: 10:40 PM
- Arrival at Kanpur Central: around 12:40 AM
- Departure from Kanpur Central: 12:45 AM
- Expected arrival at New Delhi: 5:55 AM the following day
New Delhi to Varanasi — Train 27422
- Departure from New Delhi: 9:40 PM
- Arrival at Kanpur Central: around 2:25 AM
- Departure from Kanpur Central: 2:30 AM
- Arrival at Prayagraj: 4:45 AM
- Departure from Prayagraj: 4:50 AM
- Expected arrival at Varanasi: 6:45 AM
These are reported timings and should be checked against the final timetable released by Indian Railways.
16 AC Coaches and 823-Passenger Capacity
The proposed train will have 16 air-conditioned coaches designed for overnight journeys. The reported configuration includes:
- 1 First AC coach
- 4 Second AC coaches
- 11 Third AC coaches
The train is expected to accommodate approximately 823 passengers. Sleeping berths will allow travellers to rest during the journey, unlike conventional chair-car Vande Bharat services.
What Will the Ticket Prices Be?
The official fare chart has not yet been confirmed in the reports available. Passengers should avoid relying on unofficial fare estimates and check the Indian Railways reservation system once bookings open.
A New Option for Overnight Rail Travel
The Varanasi–Delhi Sleeper Vande Bharat is expected to offer a faster overnight alternative for passengers travelling through Prayagraj and Kanpur. Its modern coaches and sleeping berths could make it attractive to business travellers, families and students.
The launch date, booking availability and final timetable should be verified through official railway announcements before travel.
Summary
The Varanasi–New Delhi Sleeper Vande Bharat is expected to launch on October 31, 2026, with ticket bookings reportedly beginning October 27. The proposed service will stop at Prayagraj and Kanpur Central and feature 16 AC coaches, including First, Second and Third AC. Timings, fares and operating arrangements remain subject to official confirmation.
