Bengaluru–Mumbai to Get India's Second Vande Bharat Sleeper Train From November 1: Check Special Features, Route, Timings, Fare

An overnight train connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai in around 16 hours could soon make life easier for thousands of rail passengers. The proposed Bengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper service is expected to offer a faster alternative to existing trains, particularly for people who travel regularly between Karnataka’s capital and Maharashtra’s financial hub.

The reported launch date is November 1, 2026, coinciding with Karnataka Rajyotsava. If introduced as planned, the service could give passengers another option for travelling between two of India’s busiest economic centres without spending almost an entire day on the train.

Bengaluru to Mumbai in around 16 hours

The proposed train is expected to cover approximately 1,118 km, connecting Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) in Bengaluru with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai.

According to the reported schedule, the train would leave Bengaluru at 7:50 pm and reach Mumbai at 11:55 am the following day. For the return journey, it is expected to depart Mumbai at 8:10 pm, arriving in Bengaluru at 11:55 am the next morning.

The idea is straightforward: board in the evening, get some rest and arrive the next day. For working professionals and families, that could mean less time lost to travel and more time at their destination.

The service is also expected to operate six days a week, although its final operating schedule remains subject to confirmation.

Which stations will the train stop at?

The proposed intermediate stoppages include Anantapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Solapur, Pune and Kalyan.

These stops could make the train useful beyond the two terminal cities. Passengers travelling between smaller cities and major commercial centres may also benefit, particularly if the timings suit their onward journeys.

Could it save passengers six hours?

That is one of the biggest attractions. The proposed journey time of around 16 hours compares with approximately 22 hours for the existing Udyan Express, according to published reports. The difference works out to roughly six hours.

That is a substantial saving on a long-distance rail journey. An overnight service could also be more convenient for passengers who prefer sleeping through much of the trip rather than travelling during the day.

What facilities are expected onboard?

The proposed train is reported to have 16 coaches, with AC three-tier, AC two-tier and AC first-class accommodation. Its estimated capacity is around 823 berths.

Expected features include Kavach train-protection technology, CCTV cameras, fire-detection systems, USB charging points, automatic passenger doors and emergency talk-back units.

For now, travellers should treat these details as provisional. Official announcements will clarify the launch, ticket prices and booking arrangements.

If the plan moves ahead, the Bengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper could become a useful addition to India's long-distance rail network. The real test, of course, will be its final timetable, fares and day-to-day reliability.