Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday welcomed the launch of the second Vande Bharat Sleeper train, connecting Varanasi with New Delhi via Prayagraj and Kanpur. The new service is expected to improve overnight rail connectivity and make travel more convenient for passengers.
The launch comes ahead of the Diwali and Chhath Puja festive season, when demand for train tickets typically increases. In a post on X, Modi said the service would save travel time and enhance the passenger experience. PM Modi Highlights The Connectivity to Religious Destinations. Train would benefit devotees, tourists, young people and business travellers. The service would improve connectivity to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and the Sangam in Prayagraj.
Modi described the train as a link between faith and opportunity, and tradition and modernity. Also said the service was equipped with modern passenger amenities and advanced safety systems.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Schedule and Travel Time
According to the schedule details provided, the train is expected to operate six days a week.
Train number Route Departure Arrival
27421 Varanasi to New Delhi 8:50 PM 5:55 AM (next day)
27422 New Delhi to Varanasi 9:40 PM 6:45 AM (next day)
The train will travel via Kanpur Central and cover approximately 760 kilometres in around nine hours and 30 minutes.
Coaches and Ticket Fares
The 16-coach train will offer three classes of accommodation:
– First AC
– Second AC
– Third AC
The official commercial fare circular is yet to be issued. However, an official indicated that ticket prices could be slightly higher than those of other trains operating on the route, considering the facilities offered.
The new service is expected to provide another overnight travel option for passengers travelling between the national capital and the holy city of Varanasi, with stops at important destinations along the route.
दिल्ली और काशी के बीच रेल यात्रा करने वालों के लिए आज का दिन ऐतिहासिक है।
काशी-दिल्ली वंदे भारत स्लीपर ट्रेन शुरू होने से समय की बचत के साथ ही उनका अनुभव बेहतर होने वाला है।
आधुनिक सुविधाओं और अत्याधुनिक सुरक्षा प्रणाली से सुसज्जित यह देश की दूसरी वंदे भारत स्लीपर ट्रेन है।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 31, 2026