Kolkata/ Guwahati: Indian Railways is all set to roll out its first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express on the Howrah–Kamakhya (Guwahati) route, with fares for all three AC classes now finalised for passengers.
The premium overnight service will cover the 958-kilometre stretch and is being positioned as a faster, more comfortable option for travellers in eastern and northeastern India.
According to sources, the 3AC fare from Howrah to Kamakhya has been fixed at ₹2,299, while passengers travelling from Howrah to New Jalpaiguri will pay ₹1,334 and to Malda Town ₹960 in the same class. In 2AC, the fare for Howrah–Kamakhya will be ₹2,970, with ₹1,724 for Howrah–New Jalpaiguri and ₹1,240 for Howrah–Malda Town.
For the top-end 1AC class, the Howrah–Kamakhya fare has been set at ₹3,640, while Howrah–New Jalpaiguri will cost ₹2,113 and Howrah–Malda Town ₹1,520. On the return side, Kamakhya–Malda Town fares are ₹1,522 in 3AC, ₹1,965 in 2AC and ₹2,409 in 1AC, whereas Kamakhya–New Jalpaiguri tickets will cost ₹962, ₹1,243 and ₹1,524 respectively across the three AC classes.
Passengers will have to pay an additional 5 per cent GST on the base fare for all categories. Railways has also fixed a minimum chargeable distance of 400 km for fare calculations in this premium sleeper service, which is expected to attract both business and leisure travellers looking for enhanced comfort on long-distance journeys.