What is the story about?
The Bengaluru-Pune Vande Bharat sleeper train is set to change travel between these two major cities, significantly reducing the journey time to approximately
13 hours. This new service, which has received official approval, will operate overnight, allowing passengers to board in the evening and arrive at their destination the next morning.
From 18 Hours Journey to 13 Hours Journey
Currently, the journey between Bengaluru and Pune takes over 18 hours via the Udyan Express and nearly 19 hours on the Coimbatore Express. Once the Vande Bharat sleeper train launches, the travel time will be cut down considerably.
The train will depart from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai and travel through Pune, Solapur, and Wadi before reaching KSR Bengaluru.
Bengaluru-Pune Vande Bharat Route
The Indian Railways has confirmed that key sections of the route, including the Daund-Wadi and Wadi-Guntakal tracks, have been upgraded to support speeds of up to 130 km/h.
When Will Bengaluru-Pune Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Launch?
This service is expected to begin operations by December 2026, although the exact launch date is yet to be announced. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw officially approved the service on April 5, 2026, marking it as the second Vande Bharat sleeper service in India, following the first launched on the Howrah-Kamakhya route.
Schedule and Frequency
The Bengaluru-Pune Vande Bharat sleeper train is expected to run six days a week, with one day allocated for maintenance. Departures from both cities are likely scheduled around 9 PM, facilitating overnight travel between these key tech hubs.
What Will Be The Estimated Fares?
Although finalised fares are yet to be confirmed, estimates suggest that ticket prices will be as follows:
- Around Rs 2,500 for AC 3-tier
- Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,200 for AC 2-tier
- Rs 3,600 to Rs 3,900 for First AC
Moreover, there will be no other pricing, and meals will be included in the ticket price. The reservation policy will enforce strict guidelines, allowing only fully confirmed bookings with no RAC or waitlist options.
All About Bengaluru-Pune Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
The Bengaluru-Pune Vande Bharat sleeper train will consist of 16 coaches, accommodating a total of 823 passengers. It will feature 11 AC 3-tier coaches, four AC 2-tier coaches, and one First AC coach, equipped with modern amenities such as orthopaedic berths, individual reading lights, charging points, and ambient lighting.
Safety features will include CCTV surveillance and the indigenous ‘Kavach’ anti-collision system, ensuring a secure travel environment.
