Luxury travel at half the cost of flights: India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper arriving, know the route and expected fares

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian Railways is set to give passengers a major New Year gift with the launch of the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Class train. The premium sleeper service will soon run between Kolkata and Guwahati, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the train within the next 15–20 days. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared this update during a press conference, stating that the testing and certification process has been completed and only the formal inauguration remains.

Likely launch in the third week of January

According to the Railway Minister, the inauguration is likely to take place around January 18 or 19, with the final date to be announced in the coming days. The Vande Bharat Sleeper has been specially designed to make long-distance overnight travel more comfortable and secure. Describing it as a major milestone, the minister said the train will offer world-class facilities and enhanced safety, providing a new travel experience for night journeys.

Much cheaper than air travel

One of the biggest highlights of the Vande Bharat Sleeper is its affordable fare structure. Comparing it with air travel, the minister said a flight ticket from Guwahati to Howrah (Kolkata) usually costs between ₹6,000 and ₹8,000. In contrast, the Vande Bharat Sleeper fares are expected to be much lower. The 3rd AC fare, including meals, is estimated at around ₹2,300, 2nd AC at about ₹3,000, and 1st AC at nearly ₹3,600. This means passengers can enjoy luxury travel at less than half the cost of a flight.

Regional cuisine to enhance travel experience

Railways has also planned a special catering concept focused on regional hospitality. The minister said passengers travelling from Guwahati will be served traditional Assamese cuisine, while those returning from Kolkata will get a taste of popular Bengali dishes. This initiative aims to connect travellers with local culture through food. The train will also feature advanced safety systems, improved suspension, and an aerodynamic design, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.