Delhi-Varanasi Sleeper Vande Bharat: 9 PM Departure, 5 AM Arrival? Check All About The Proposed Service | New-delhi-news News
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A second Sleeper Vande Bharat may soon connect Delhi and Varanasi with an overnight service. Check the proposed timings, route, coach composition and key features of the train
The Sleeper Vande Bharat trains have been developed with features aimed at improving passenger comfort, safety and convenience during long-distance journeys.
Indian Railways is looking to add another Sleeper Vande Bharat service on the New Delhi-Varanasi route, potentially giving passengers a convenient overnight travel option on one of India’s busiest rail corridors. The proposed service will pass through Prayagraj and Kanpur, with railway officials reportedly aiming to launch it around Diwali, subject to trials and operational approvals.
The Railway Ministry said in April 2026 that the New Delhi-Varanasi route had carried more than 73 lakh passengers, making it the busiest Vande Bharat route. However, the Railway Board has not yet confirmed the new train’s number, fares, final timetable or regular operation date.
Proposed Timings For Delhi-Varanasi Sleeper Vande Bharat
According to the schedule reported by railway officials, the proposed train will depart from Varanasi Cantt at around 9:20 PM and reach Prayagraj at approximately 10:45 PM. It is expected to pass through Kanpur Central at around 12:35 AM before arriving at New Delhi at approximately 5 AM the following morning.
As per the proposed schedule, the train would depart from New Delhi at around 9:20 PM and arrive in Varanasi at approximately 5 AM the next morning. The timings remain provisional and may change following trial runs and operational clearances.
The service could run at speeds of around 130 kmph to 160 kmph, subject to track conditions and the progress of the Mission Raftaar initiative.
16-Coach Train With 823-Passenger Capacity
According to a report in The Times of India, the proposed Sleeper Vande Bharat is expected to have 16 coaches with accommodation for 823 passengers. Its composition includes:
- 11 AC 3-tier coaches
- Four AC 2-tier coaches
- One First AC coach
- Total capacity of 823 passengers
The service is designed to offer a dedicated overnight travel option, allowing passengers to travel in sleeping berths rather than conventional seating arrangements. Reports suggest that Northern Railway is likely to be responsible for the primary maintenance of the proposed train.
Modern Features And Passenger Safety
The Sleeper Vande Bharat trains have been developed with features aimed at improving passenger comfort, safety and convenience during long-distance journeys. These include KAVACH-related safety provisions, fire barrier doors, automatic plug doors and CCTV cameras in the coaches.
Other reported features include emergency talk-back units, semi-permanent couplers with anti-climbers and specially designed lavatories for Divyangjan passengers in the driving coaches. The train also features ergonomically designed ladders to make it easier for passengers to access upper berths.
Improved Interiors And Sleeping Comfort
The interiors of the Sleeper Vande Bharat have been designed for overnight journeys, with sleeping berths, modern fittings and passenger-focused features. The ergonomically designed berth ladders are intended to improve accessibility, particularly for passengers using upper berths.
For families and other passengers travelling overnight, the sleeper configuration could provide a more convenient experience by allowing them to settle into their berths after boarding.
Modern Toilets And CCTV Cameras
The train’s passenger amenities also include modern toilet facilities and CCTV cameras across the coaches. These features are intended to support hygiene, passenger convenience and onboard security.
The proposed Delhi-Varanasi service is part of Indian Railways’ wider expansion of Sleeper Vande Bharat trains. However, details concerning its launch date, fares, train number and final schedule will be confirmed only through an official Railway Board announcement.
Quick Answers
Ask News18The proposed train is scheduled to depart Varanasi Cantt at around 9:20 PM, pass through Prayagraj and Kanpur Central, and arrive in New Delhi at approximately 5:00 AM. On the return journey, it is expected to leave New Delhi at around 9:20 PM and reach Varanasi at approximately 5:00 AM the next morning.
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Delhi, India, India
September 23, 2026, 16:07 IST
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