Delhi–Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper? Here’s what we know about the new sleeper Vande Bharat

An October 31 flag-off is expected, but Railways has not formally announced it

UNI reported on October 26 that the Varanasi–Delhi sleeper Vande Bharat may start on October 31, with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expected to flag it off at Varanasi. The same report says an official announcement is yet to be made.

Two stops are planned: Prayagraj and Kanpur Central

Reports say the train numbers will be 27421 and 27422, and that the only stops between Varanasi and New Delhi will be Prayagraj and Kanpur Central. Earlier reports in September and early October had given different dates and timings, so treat the schedule as provisional.

Reported timings: Delhi at 9:40 PM, Varanasi at 6:45 AM

Dainik Jagran lists 27422 leaving New Delhi at 9:40 PM, reaching Prayagraj at 4:45 AM and Varanasi at 6:45 AM. These timings are not yet confirmed by a Railway Board notification.

Sleeper rakes have 16 coaches and about 823 berths

A 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper rake carries around 823 passengers, according to Business Today’s description of the planned train. HelloRail reports a “zero waitlist, zero RAC” rule, meaning only confirmed berths can board.