Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper train approved by the Railway Board, launch expected soon. (Image: Ministry of Railways)Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express: The Railway Board (RB) has approved the introduction of a new Vande Bharat Sleeper Express between Varanasi and New Delhi. Developed by BEML using technology from Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the new semi-high-speed train is set to transform overnight travel between the two cities.Currently, two pairs of Vande Bharat Chair Car trains are operational between New Delhi and Varanasi. Both the trains have been running at full capacity since their inception. Following the approval, the new train service is expected to be launched soon. The orange-and-grey-coloured train will be maintained and operated by Northern Railway (NR).Also Read | Tatanagar set for major railway upgrade: 9 platforms, new rail lines and Vande Bharat facilities plannedVaranasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express: Distance, Travel time, RouteTrain number 27421/27422 Varanasi-New Delhi-Varanasi will cover around 760 km in 9 hours and 30 minutes. The train will have 16 coaches, offering three classes of accommodation: Third AC, Second AC and First AC. The train will run via Kanpur Central.Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express: StoppagesAccording to the Railway Board letter, during its journey between Varanasi and New Delhi, train number 27421/27422 Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will stop at four stations en route. These are: Prayagraj, Kanpur Central, Aligarh, and Ghaziabad.Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper train: Timings, FrequencyTrain number 27421 Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will depart from Varanasi at 8:50 pm and arrive in New Delhi at 6:10 am the next day. The train will operate six days a week, except Fridays.In the return direction, train number 27422 New Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will depart from New Delhi at 9:40 pm and reach Varanasi at 7:10 am the following day. It will run six days a week, except on Saturdays.Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper train: FeaturesTotal coaches: 16 (11 coaches 3 Tier; 4 coaches 2 Tier; 1 coach 1AC)Passenger capacity: 823 (3T: 611 + 2T:188 + 1st AC:24)Semi-high-speed train with design speed up to 180 kmphErgonomically designed berths with improved cushioningAutomatic doors with vestibules for smooth movementEnhanced ride comfort with superior suspension and noise reductionKavach and Emergency talk-back systemDisinfectant technology to maintain high sanitationDriver cab with advanced controls and safety systemsAerodynamic exterior looks & Automatic exterior passenger doorsAnish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More