Indian Railways is preparing to launch the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, extending its flagship semi-high-speed brand into the overnight travel segment. The inaugural service will connect Howrah with Kamakhya in Guwahati, spanning nearly 960 kilometres across eastern and northeastern India.

With the announcement, attention has shifted to the ticket pricing for the new sleeper configuration. Sources indicate that the train will offer First AC, Second AC and Third AC accommodation, with fares varying by distance and class.

For the full Howrah–Kamakhya journey, the Third AC fare is expected to be ₹2,299, while Second AC tickets are priced at ₹2,970. Passengers opting for First AC will pay ₹3,640. On shorter stretches, fares are proportionately lower. Travel from Howrah to New Jalpaiguri is likely to cost ₹1,334 in 3AC, ₹1,724 in 2AC and ₹2,113 in 1AC, while tickets from Howrah to Malda Town are pegged at ₹960, ₹1,240 and ₹1,520 respectively.

On the northeastern leg, fares between Kamakhya and Malda Town are set at ₹1,522 for 3AC, ₹1,965 for 2AC and ₹2,409 for 1AC. For journeys between Kamakhya and New Jalpaiguri, passengers will pay ₹962 in Third AC, ₹1,243 in Second AC and ₹1,524 in First AC.

In addition to the base fare, travellers will need to factor in a 5 per cent Goods and Services Tax. Railways officials also indicated that Vande Bharat Sleeper pricing follows a minimum chargeable distance of 400 kilometres, reflecting its premium positioning.

The new service is expected to enhance comfort on long overnight routes while offering a faster and more modern alternative to conventional sleeper trains.