What is Vande Bharat Express?
Vande Bharat Express (also known as Train 18) is India's first semi-high-speed train, indigenously designed and manufactured. It represents the future of Indian Railways with modern amenities and faster travel times.
Key Features of Vande Bharat
#
Speed
- Maximum Speed: 180 km/h
- Operating Speed: 130-160 km/h
- 30-40% Faster than conventional trains
#
Design & Technology
- Self-propelled train sets (no separate locomotive)
- Aerodynamic design
- Regenerative braking system
- Lower noise and vibration
#
Comfort & Amenities
- Reclining Seats: 180-degree recline in EC, 140-degree in CC
- Legroom: Executive class - 1,270mm, Chair car - 1,040mm
- Entertainment: LCD screens with infotainment
- WiFi: Onboard WiFi connectivity
- Charging: USB and power sockets at every seat
- Lighting: LED diffused lights, reading lights
- Climate: Automatic temperature control
#
Food & Service
- Catering: Complimentary onboard meals
- Pantry: Modular pantry with hot/cold options
- Menu: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner based on journey time
Vande Bharat Routes (as of 2025)
#
South India Routes
| Route | Train No | Duration |
|-------|----------|----------|
| Chennai - Mysuru | 20607/08 | ~6 hrs |
| Chennai - Coimbatore | 20643/44 | ~5 hrs |
| Bengaluru - Dharwad | 20659/60 | ~7 hrs |
| Secunderabad - Tirupati | 20701/02 | ~7 hrs |
#
North India Routes
| Route | Train No | Duration |
|-------|----------|----------|
| Delhi - Varanasi | 22436/35 | ~8 hrs |
| Delhi - Katra | 22439/40 | ~8 hrs |
| Delhi - Dehradun | 22455/56 | ~4.5 hrs |
| Delhi - Jaipur | 22461/62 | ~2 hrs |
#
West & Central India
| Route | Train No | Duration |
|-------|----------|----------|
| Mumbai - Solapur | 22225/26 | ~6 hrs |
| Nagpur - Bilaspur | 20827/28 | ~4 hrs |
| Ahmedabad - Mumbai | 22953/54 | ~5.5 hrs |
Routes are continuously being added. Check IRCTC for latest routes.
Classes Available
#
EC - Executive Class
- Seating: 2+2 configuration
- Features: Extra legroom, better recline, premium meals
- Ideal For: Business travelers, premium experience seekers
- Capacity: ~52 passengers per coach
#
CC - Chair Car
- Seating: 3+2 configuration
- Features: Standard amenities, complimentary meals
- Ideal For: Regular travelers, families
- Capacity: ~78 passengers per coach
Ticket Prices (Approximate Range)
| Route | EC Class | CC Class |
|-------|----------|----------|
| Short (2-4 hrs) | Rs. 1,500-2,000 | Rs. 800-1,200 |
| Medium (4-6 hrs) | Rs. 2,000-2,500 | Rs. 1,200-1,600 |
| Long (6-8 hrs) | Rs. 2,500-3,500 | Rs. 1,600-2,200 |
Prices include catering charges
How to Book Vande Bharat Tickets
#
Through IRCTC
1. Login to IRCTC website/app
2. Search for Vande Bharat trains on your route
3. Select EC or CC class
4. Complete booking
#
Through LowerBerth
- Call: 0431-7964515
- WhatsApp: +91 98842 06480
- Benefits: Expert advice, Tatkal assistance, seat preferences
Tips for Vande Bharat Travel
#
1. Book Early
Vande Bharat trains are extremely popular. Book as soon as the booking window opens (120 days in advance).
#
2. Choose Executive Class for Long Journeys
The extra comfort is worth it for journeys over 4 hours.
#
3. Arrive Early
Reach the station 30-40 minutes before departure. Security checks are thorough.
#
4. Carry ID Proof
Original ID is mandatory - the same one used during booking.
#
5. Enjoy the Meals
Meals are included in the fare. Special dietary requirements should be mentioned during booking.
Vande Bharat vs Shatabdi Express
| Feature | Vande Bharat | Shatabdi |
|---------|--------------|----------|
| Speed | 130-160 km/h | 110-130 km/h |
| Design | Self-propelled | Locomotive hauled |
| Seats | Rotating (face direction) | Fixed direction |
| Amenities | LCD screens, WiFi | Basic |
| Meals | Included | Included |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Future of Vande Bharat
- Sleeper Version: Night trains with sleeping berths (under development)
- More Routes: Expanding to cover major cities
- Metro Version: Short-distance variants for urban connectivity
Conclusion
Vande Bharat Express represents the best of Indian Railways - speed, comfort, and modern amenities. For bookings and route queries, contact LowerBerth at 0431-7964515.