Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train: Check launch date, route, stoppages, ticket price, food menu

Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train: Indian Railways (IR) is set to introduce the Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train this month. This new train is expected to transform long-distance rail journey in the country. Developed by BEML with ICF (Integral Coach Factory) technology, this new train will run with 16 coaches.

The Howrah-Guwhati Vande Bharat Sleeper train will be rolled out in the next 17-18 days. Speaking to reporters, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the first Vande Bharat Sleeper train will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by January 18.

The first Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train will run from Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya). A total of two rakes will be in service on the route. The train will run via Bandel Junction. This new train is expected to be maintained and operated by Eastern Railway (ER) zone.

Comfortable cushioned berths in Vande Bharat Sleeper train (Image: Ministry of Railways)

During its journey between Howrah and Guwahati, the first Vande Bharat Sleeper train will halt at eight stations. These are: Bandel, Katwa, New Farakka, Malda Town, New Jalpaiguri, New Coochbehar and New Bongaigaon.

Route map of Howrah-Guwahati-Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper train (Image: Ministry of Railways)

Indian Railways has not yet announced the schedule of Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train. However, Vaishnaw said that the train will depart in the evening.

Vande Bharat Sleeper train interior (Image: Ministry of Railways)

The Howrah–Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train will feature three classes of coaches: Third AC, Second AC and First AC. The fare for travel between Howrah and Guwahati (and vice versa) is Rs 2,300 for Third AC, Rs 3,000 for Second AC, and Rs 3,600 for First AC.

Speaking to Indianexpress.com, Vaishnaw said that Vande Bharat Sleeper train will not have any dynamic train. “There will be no dynamic fare,” the minister said. He further added that the food price will be included in the fare.

Railway Minister also stated that Howrah-Guwahati-Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper train will have regional dishes. “On the Guwahati–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper, passengers will be served Assamese cuisine, while on the Howrah–Guwahati service, Bengali food will be offered,” he said.