NEW DELHI / KOLKATA – Indian Railways is entering a new era of overnight travel with the launch of the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train. Operating between Howrah Junction in West Bengal and Kamakhya Junction (Guwahati) in Assam, the service promises a “hotel-on-wheels” experience with semi-high-speed efficiency.
1. Launch and Operations
- Flag-off Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026.
- Commercial Start: Expected Monday, January 19, 2026.
- Frequency:6 days a week.
- Ex-Howrah: Every day except Thursday.
- Ex-Kamakhya: Every day except Wednesday.
- Train Numbers: 27575 (Howrah to Kamakhya) | 27576 (Kamakhya to Howrah).
2. Timings and Speed
The train is designed for a service speed of 130–160 km/h, though it successfully cleared trials at 180 km/h. It will complete the 958 km journey in approximately 14 hours, significantly faster than current express trains like the Saraighat Express.
| Direction | Departure | Arrival |
| Howrah to Kamakhya (27575) | 18:20 (6:20 PM) | 08:20 (Next Day) |
| Kamakhya to Howrah (27576) | 18:15 (6:15 PM) | 08:15 (Next Day) |
3. Fare Structure (Excluding 5% GST)
The fares are premium, positioned between the Rajdhani Express and flight prices. A minimum distance of 400 km is used for fare calculation.
| Journey Segment | 3AC (Third AC) | 2AC (Second AC) | 1AC (First AC) |
| Howrah to Kamakhya | ₹2,299 | ₹2,970 | ₹3,640 |
| Howrah to New Jalpaiguri | ₹1,334 | ₹1,724 | ₹2,113 |
| Howrah to Malda Town | ₹960 | ₹1,240 | ₹1,520 |
4. Route and Key Stoppages
The train will halt at 13 intermediate stations, providing a vital link between South Bengal, North Bengal, and Lower Assam.
- West Bengal: Bandel, Nabadwip Dham, Katwa, Azimganj, New Farakka, Malda Town, Aluabari Road, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), Jalpaiguri Road, New Cooch Behar, New Alipurduar.
- Assam: New Bongaigaon, Rangiya.
5. Top “World-Class” Features
- Comfort: Ergonomically designed cushioned berths, GFRP interior panels, and extra-soft night lighting.
- Hygiene: Aircraft-style bio-vacuum toilets; the 1AC coach features hot water shower cubicles.
- Safety: Equipped with Kavach (Anti-collision system), fire-barrier doors, and CCTV surveillance in all coaches.
- Stability: Advanced suspension systems ensure that a glass of water remains steady even at 180 km/h.