According to details reported by railway sources, the fare of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is expected to be higher than conventional long-distance trains and, on some routes, even costlier than Rajdhani Express. This pricing has sparked discussions among passengers, especially frequent overnight travellers.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Fares Spark Debate
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is designed to offer a next-generation travel experience, featuring modern sleeper coaches, improved safety systems, advanced suspension, and faster acceleration. Indian Railways aims to position it as a premium overnight option, bridging the gap between luxury and high-speed rail travel.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Fare Structure
Initial fare estimates suggest that:
- AC 3-tier sleeper fares may be higher than existing Rajdhani AC 3-tier tickets
- AC 2-tier sleeper fares are expected to reflect the premium facilities and faster journey time
- Dynamic pricing may apply depending on demand and route
Railway officials have clarified that fares are determined based on operational costs, onboard amenities, and travel time reduction, similar to other semi-high-speed trains.
Routes and Expansion Plans
The first Vande Bharat Sleeper services will operate on high-demand long-distance routes, with more trains planned across multiple states in the coming months. Indian Railways has already announced that several additional sleeper Vande Bharat trains will be introduced in 2026, expanding coverage across major corridors.
Passenger Expectations and Railways’ Stand
While some passengers have raised concerns about affordability, railway authorities believe that travelers will be willing to pay a premium for comfort, punctuality, and modern infrastructure. Officials also emphasized that the train is not meant to replace Rajdhani or Duronto services, but to provide an alternative premium option for overnight journeys.
With its official launch just days away, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is expected to redefine long-distance night travel in India. Whether passengers accept the higher fares will become clearer once bookings begin and real-world demand comes into play.
As Indian Railways continues its push toward modernization, the Vande Bharat Sleeper marks another significant step in transforming the country’s passenger rail experience.
