India’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to redefine long-distance overnight travel as it begins its commercial operations on the Guwahati (Kamakhya)–Howrah route from Thursday, January 22. Designed to offer faster, more comfortable journeys, the semi-high-speed sleeper service marks a major milestone in the evolution of Indian Railways’ premium train offerings.
Operated and maintained by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), the new-age sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat is aimed at passengers travelling long distances overnight, combining modern amenities with reduced travel time.
Commercial operations begin on January 22
According to the national transporter, train number 27576 Kamakhya–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will commence its commercial journey from January 22, while train number 27575 Howrah–Kamakhya Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will begin commercial operations from January 23.
The Kamakhya–Howrah service (27576) will run on all days except Wednesday, whereas the Howrah–Kamakhya service (27575) will operate daily except Thursday. Two rakes have been earmarked exclusively for the route to ensure regular operations.
Stoppages, coach composition and timetable
During its run between Howrah and Kamakhya, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will stop at 13 key stations: Bandel, Nabadwip Dham, Katwa, Azimganj, New Farakka, Malda Town, Aluabari Road, New Jalpaiguri, Jalpaiguri Road, New Cooch Behar, New Alipurduar, New Bongaigaon and Rangiya.
The train will feature a total of 16 coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier coaches, four AC 2-tier coaches and one AC First Class coach, offering a range of premium travel options to passengers.
As per the timetable, train number 27575 will depart Howrah at 18:20 hrs and reach Kamakhya at 08:20 hrs the next day. In the reverse direction, train number 27576 will leave Kamakhya at 18:15 hrs and arrive at Howrah at 08:15 hrs the following morning. The total journey time for the route will be approximately 14 hours.
With the launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper, Indian Railways is expected to significantly enhance overnight connectivity between eastern India and the Northeast, offering passengers a faster, more comfortable alternative to conventional long-distance trains.