Guwahati–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set for Commercial Launch
Indian Railways is all set to launch a landmark service with the start of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train on the Guwahati (Kamakhya)–Howrah corridor. The premium semi-high-speed sleeper service will begin commercial operations on January 22, offering passengers a faster, more comfortable overnight travel option.
The new Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will be operated by the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) and is designed to transform long-distance rail journeys with modern amenities, improved safety features, and reduced travel time.
Service Details and Operating Days
According to Indian Railways, train number 27576 Kamakhya–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will start running commercially from January 22. Its return service, train number 27575 Howrah–Kamakhya Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, will commence from January 23.
The Kamakhya–Howrah train will operate every day except Wednesday, while the Howrah–Kamakhya service will run six days a week, excluding Thursday.
Route and Stoppages
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will halt at 13 stations between Howrah and Kamakhya, enhancing rail connectivity across eastern and northeastern India. The stoppages include:
Bandel, Nabadwip Dham, Katwa, Azimganj, New Farakka, Malda Town, Aluabari Road, New Jalpaiguri, Jalpaiguri Road, New Cooch Behar, New Alipurduar, New Bongaigaon and Rangiya.
Coach Configuration and Rakes
The Howrah–Kamakhya–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will feature 16 air-conditioned coaches, comprising 11 AC 3-tier coaches, 4 AC 2-tier coaches, and 1 AC First Class coach. Indian Railways has allocated two train rakes exclusively for this route to maintain operational efficiency.
Timings and Travel Duration
Train number 27575 will depart from Howrah at 18:20 hrs and reach Kamakhya at 08:20 hrs the following morning. On the return journey, train number 27576 will depart Kamakhya at 18:15 hrs and arrive at Howrah at 08:15 hrs the next day. The total journey time for the route is estimated at around 14 hours.
A New Chapter in Overnight Rail Travel
The launch of the Guwahati–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper Express marks a major step in Indian Railways’ efforts to modernise long-distance travel. With faster speeds, upgraded interiors, and sleeper comfort, the train is expected to improve overnight connectivity between eastern India and the Northeast significantly.
As India expands its Vande Bharat network, the introduction of the sleeper variant signals a shift toward premium, high-speed overnight rail services across the country.