Vande Bharat Takes a New Track: The Vande Bharat Express has become more than just a train—it’s a bold symbol of India’s rail revolution. As of 2025, this semi-high-speed marvel is reaching farther corners of the country with upgraded capacity, sleeper coaches in the pipeline, and new scenic routes like Belagavi–Bengaluru and Koraput via Araku.
Let’s unpack everything you need to know about these latest developments—including routes, timings, ticket fares, tech features, and even eco-impact.
Vande Bharat Takes a New Track
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Route | Belagavi–Bengaluru operational |
| Proposed Extension | Bhubaneswar–Visakhapatnam to Koraput via Araku |
| Longest Vande Bharat | Mumbai–Gandhinagar (20 coaches) |
| Sleeper Version | Launching in 2025 on long-distance routes |
| Booking Sites | IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, Ixigo, Goibibo |
| Fares | Starting from ₹1,065 (Chair Car) |
| New Stations Proposed | Agra Eidgah, Ayodhya Dham |
| Eco-Friendly | Fully electric, lower carbon footprint |
| Official Site | Indian Railways |
Whether you’re a busy techie, a student, or a senior exploring India, Vande Bharat Express is the gold standard in Indian train travel. With zero delay, beautiful interiors, and now sleeper versions in the pipeline—this train is changing the game.
So, next time you travel, skip the flight. Hop on Vande Bharat.
What’s New in Vande Bharat’s World in 2025
India’s elite train, the Vande Bharat Express, isn’t just about speed anymore—it’s about smarter routes, enhanced coach capacity, and a big jump in user convenience. Here’s a look at what’s new:
Belagavi–Bengaluru Route
- Travel time: 6 hours (approx.)
- Purpose: Faster connectivity for North Karnataka’s professionals and students.
- Stops: Belagavi, Hubballi, Davangere, Tumkur, Bengaluru
Araku Valley Extension (Proposed)
A stunning journey awaits if the extension from Bhubaneswar–Visakhapatnam to Koraput via Araku Valley is approved. It’ll benefit tribal populations and increase footfall in India’s hill destinations.
Mumbai–Gandhinagar (Longest Train Yet!)
This route now boasts 20 coaches, making it India’s longest Vande Bharat ever. Great for group travelers and festival-season rush!
Agra–Varanasi Updates
- Coach count: Likely to double from 8 to 16
- New routes: Agra to Ayodhya Dham under review
Timings, Routes & Ticket Fares (Popular Samples)
| Route | Chair Car (₹) | Executive (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi–Varanasi | 1,740 | 3,270 |
| Mumbai–Ahmedabad | 1,540 | — |
| Chennai–Coimbatore | 1,365 | 2,485 |
| Dehradun–Delhi | 1,065 | 1,890 |
Vande Bharat vs. Rajdhani vs. Shatabdi
| Feature | Vande Bharat | Shatabdi | Rajdhani |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 180 km/h | ~130 km/h | ~130-140 km/h |
| Meals | Included in EC | Included | Included |
| WiFi | Not yet | Yes (some) | Yes |
| Modern Interiors | Yes | Limited | Limited |
| Sleeper Coaches | Coming Soon | No | Yes |
What Makes Vande Bharat So Cool? (Features & Tech)
- Speed: Can hit 180 km/h but typically cruises around 130–160 km/h
- Kavach Safety: Anti-collision tech installed
- Bio Toilets: Vacuum toilets, better hygiene
- Plug Points & Reading Lights: At every seat
- GPS-Powered Info Displays
- Eco Impact: 100% electric, regenerative braking, lower carbon footprint
Real Reactions From Passengers
- “Feels like flying in an airplane—just on tracks.”
- “Finally, a train that reaches on time AND gives you legroom!”
- “Hope sleeper coaches come soon for night travel.”
Travel Tips: How to Maximize Your Ride
Tip 1: Book Executive Chair Car if you want extra space and better meals.
Tip 2: Bring your own snacks for short-distance routes without pantry service.
Tip 3: Use IRCTC app or ixigo to track real-time updates on platform number and coach position.
Tip 4: Chair Car is perfect for daytime journeys up to 6 hours.
Booking Guide – Here’s How to Reserve Your Seat
Book tickets online at:
- IRCTC Official
- MakeMyTrip
- Ixigo
- Goibibo
Use mobile apps for seat maps, PNR status, and onboard amenities preview.
Future Scope – Sleeper Coaches, More States & More Speed
By end of 2025, Indian Railways plans:
- Sleeper Vande Bharat: On overnight corridors like Delhi–Howrah
- More Routes: Targeting 75+ trains across 24 states
- Speed Upgrades: Track & signal upgrades to allow 200 km/h travel
RITES Hiring Engineers in 2025—Multiple Posts Open! Submit Your Application Today
11,347 ITI Vacancies in 2025: Govt Job Aspirants, This Could Be Your Big Break!
Frequently Asked Questions About Vande Bharat Takes a New Track
Q1. Are tickets refundable?
Yes, cancellation fees apply. IRCTC shows refund details during booking.
Q2. Are senior citizen discounts available?
Currently not applicable on Vande Bharat.
Q3. Does it stop at small towns?
Only at major cities and junctions for speed efficiency.
Q4. Is it better than flying?
For trips under 500 km, absolutely. It’s faster door-to-door.
Q5. When are sleeper coaches launching?
Expected late 2025 on routes like Delhi–Howrah and Kerala circuits.
