The Ministry of Railways announced on 30 October 2026 that new Vande Bharat Sleeper Express services will be flagged off between Varanasi and New Delhi on 31 October 2026. These overnight trains will connect Varanasi, Prayagraj, Kanpur Central, Aligarh, and Ghaziabad to the national capital, reducing travel time by 55 minutes from Varanasi and 35 minutes from New Delhi compared to the Shiv Ganga Express. The service will operate six days a week, providing a faster and more modern travel option for pilgrims, students, and professionals.
Key points
- Route: Connects Varanasi, Prayagraj, Kanpur Central, Aligarh, Ghaziabad, and New Delhi
- Schedule: Departs Varanasi at 20:50; departs New Delhi at 21:40
- Frequency: Operates 6 days a week (except Fridays from Varanasi and Saturdays from New Delhi)
- Time Saving: Reduces journey time by 55 mins (Varanasi to Delhi) and 35 mins (Delhi to Varanasi)
- Features: Includes Wi-Fi, CCTVs, and hot water showers in First AC
When it applies
Counted from 2026-10-30, dated 30 October 2026.
- flagging off of Vande Bharat Sleeper Express services
Who it affects
- passengers