Vande Bharat Sleeper: Overnight Train That Saves Travellers Hotel Costs

The new Vande Bharat Sleeper service, launching January 17 on the Guwahati–Kolkata route, offers passengers a premium overnight train experience with confirmed AC berths. By enabling late‑night departures and early‑morning arrivals, it helps travellers avoid hotel stays, saving thousands of rupees per trip. With kilometre‑based pricing and limited reservation quotas, the service is designed to be cost‑effective, comfortable, and competitive against short‑haul flights.

Jan 16, 2026 0 0

Vande Bharat Sleeper: Overnight Train That Saves Travellers Hotel Costs

Vande Bharat Sleeper: A Game‑Changer for Overnight Travel

The upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper service is set to transform long‑distance travel in India by helping passengers cut down on hotel expenses. Scheduled to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 17, the first service will run between Guwahati and Kolkata.

Saving on Accommodation Costs

In major Indian cities, mid‑range hotel stays typically cost between ₹2,500 and ₹5,000 per night, with premium options priced even higher. By offering late‑night departures and early‑morning arrivals on routes spanning 600–900 km, the Vande Bharat Sleeper allows passengers to rest onboard instead of booking a hotel room.

“Overnight train travel becomes productive rest time,” said Govind Gaur, CEO of WanderOn. “Families, students, and business travellers can save thousands of rupees on a single trip.”

Premium Comfort with Confirmed Berths

Unlike traditional sleeper trains, the Vande Bharat Sleeper will provide only confirmed AC berths — no RAC or waitlisted tickets. While fares may be slightly higher than existing express services, the savings on hotel costs make the journey more economical overall.

Competitive Against Flights

Industry experts note that the model could make train travel more appealing compared to short‑haul flights, especially when factoring in airport transfers, waiting times, and accommodation expenses.

Fare Structure

Up to 400 km: ₹1,520 (AC 1), ₹1,240 (AC 2), ₹960 (AC 3)
Beyond 400 km: ₹3.20/km (AC 1), ₹3.10/km (AC 2), ₹2.40/km (AC 3)
GST applicable separately; minimum chargeable distance: 400 km

Reservation Quotas

The Railway Board has limited quotas to Ladies, PwD, Senior Citizens, and Duty Pass. No other quotas will apply.

Berth Allocation

Special consideration will be given for passengers with children and senior travellers. For example, male passengers aged 60+ and female passengers aged 45+ will be automatically allotted lower berths where available.