New Delhi: Indian Railways is all set to launch its latest premium long-distance train, the Vande Bharat Sleeper, with the final high-speed trial successfully completed under the supervision of the Commissioner of Railway Safety.

The Kolkata–Guwahati route has been selected for the inaugural service. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced that 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will be rolled out across the country this year, with further expansion planned next year

Railway sources indicate that Kerala is likely to receive two Vande Bharat Sleeper services. The move is part of a broader strategy to prioritise states heading into Assembly elections, with Assam, West Bengal, and Kerala all scheduled to go to the polls.

Likely routes for Kerala

According to officials, the Thiruvananthapuram–Chennai route is expected to host Kerala’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper service, followed by the Thiruvananthapuram–Bengaluru route. The Thiruvananthapuram–Mangaluru corridor is also under consideration for future deployment.

READ MORE: Want luxury on Indian rails? Check out the new Vande Bharat sleeper train

Nationwide rollout underway

All 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are expected to be operational by the end of this year.

The Kolkata–Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper, which will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will consist of 16 coaches. Preparations are underway to position one train each at Guwahati and Kolkata for the inaugural ceremony.

What is the ticket price of Vande Bhart Sleeper train?

The Railway Minister recently shared indicative ticket prices for the Kolkata–Guwahati route:

Third AC: approximately ₹2,300

Second AC: approximately ₹3,000

First AC: approximately ₹3,600

All fares include onboard catering services, officials said.