NEW DELHI/PATNA, December 16, 2025 — The long-awaited transformation of Indian rail travel is imminent as Indian Railways prepares to launch the first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Express on the high-demand Delhi-Patna route. In a move that promises to redefine overnight journeys, the new service is expected to slash travel time between the national capital and Bihar’s capital to just 8 hours—a massive improvement over the current 12 to 17 hours taken by Rajdhani and other express trains.
Delhi to Patna in Just 8 Hours: Vande Bharat Sleeper Set to Revolutionize Rail Travel
NEW DELHI/PATNA, December 16, 2025 — The long-awaited transformation of Indian rail travel is imminent as Indian Railways prepares to launch the first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Express on the high-demand Delhi-Patna route. In a move that promises to redefine overnight journeys, the new service is expected to slash travel time between the national capital and Bihar’s capital to just 8 hours—a massive improvement over the current 12 to 17 hours taken by Rajdhani and other express trains.
High-Speed Connectivity
Covering a distance of approximately 1,000 km, the Vande Bharat Sleeper is designed to operate at a top speed of 160 km/h. This semi-high-speed capability makes it a viable alternative not just to existing trains, but also to flights, offering passengers a "hotel on wheels" experience without the hassle of airport transits.
Reports indicate the train will run six days a week, departing in the evening and arriving at the destination early the next morning, maximizing convenience for business travelers and families alike.
"Tea Won't Spill": Superior Stability and Comfort
One of the most talked-about features of this new rolling stock is its superior ride quality. Railway officials have touted the train's stability, claiming that the engineering is so precise that "tea won't spill" even when the train is cruising at top speed.
Unlike the chair-car versions currently in service, the sleeper variant is purpose-built for long-haul comfort. The 16-coach formation includes:
11 AC 3-Tier coaches
4 AC 2-Tier coaches
1 AC First Class coach
The total carrying capacity is approximately 827 passengers.
Cutting-Edge Features
The train is manufactured by BEML in Bengaluru and comes packed with world-class amenities:
KAVACH System: India’s indigenous anti-collision technology for enhanced safety.
Automatic Doors: Sensor-based inter-coach and entrance doors.
Modern Interiors: Ergonomic berths, bio-digester toilets with touch-free fittings, and sensor-based soft lighting.
Passenger Info: Digital displays and CCTV surveillance for security.
Launch Timeline
The first rake is reportedly undergoing final preparations and trials are expected to commence shortly. While an official flag-off date has not yet been announced, sources suggest the service could be inaugurated before the New Year, making it a perfect gift for travelers entering 2026.